EDUCATION MINISTER WANTS HOA TO SUPPORT $2M TO OVERHAUL SCHOOLS

Education Minister Dr. Nathalio Wheatley has called on his colleagues in the House of Assembly to support the allocation of 2 million dollars in the upcoming budget for a complete overhaul of schools.

Last Week teachers at the Elmore stoutt high School Junior and Senior campuses stayed away from the classrooms as well as teachers from four primary schools.

The Education Minister addressed the teachers action for the first time during a live broadcast Sunday night, and urged them to return to the table of dialogue, so they can work together on rectifying these matters. 

He also sought to put into perspective the grievances of the teachers saying that the Ministry has been in consistent dialogue with the Teachers Union, to have them addressed.

Minister Wheatley said that he along with the Premier, other elected members and the Chief Education officer met with the teachers  on August 23^rd, and during that meeting a list of concerns was shared. Subsequently, a letter was submitted to him on behalf of the Union, listing 5 requests, all of which they agreed to fulfill.

The first request the Minister said was the payment of a $300 stipend, they budgeted the funds in the adjustment budget passed in September, and the Ministry processed the vouchers and 75% of cheques were printed last week, and are now ready for distribution.

The Education Minister has affirmed that the teachers have valid concerns that must be addressed.