Letter of the Day - Leadership, vision needed to curb teacher migration THE EDITOR, Sir: I AM challenged by the impact the loss of so many experienced and qualified teachers will have on the education system. I imagine schools will hire or promote teachers to positions vacated by those leaving to take up positions in New York schools, provided the appropriate approvals are given by the Ministry of Education. The effect on the morale of those teachers who choose to stay cannot be measured, the best and brightest I am told are leaving. The frustration with salaries, student conduct, lack of materials, equipment and poor facilities is added to by the loss of friends and colleagues who made the difference in school for both teachers and students alike. Replicate the impact 600 times over and the impact on the education system becomes more apparent and challenging. Combine this with the desire of those who have served education well and are now eagerly looking forward to retirement and openly expressing the desire to get out of the classroom and the concept of a motivated teaching cadre takes another frontal impact. There comes a point at which we have to be pragmatic, the loss of so many experienced teachers is going to impact considerably on the education system, the schools, the teachers and the students. I believe there has been very careful targeting of skills in the recent recruitment drive English Language, Mathematics, Sciences preferably graduate, trained teachers, with experience and a track record of success, the specialists. Are these the same subject areas in which we already have challenges? Our schools produce many young men and women with internationally recognised qualifications, with leadership skills, a quest for excellence and the desire to succeed, some are self-motivated, many are inspired by their teachers. Students struggle with challenges of youth, parents, the lack of job prospects and mediocrity; some do fall by the way but many can give thanks to a teacher who did not give up on them, where perspiration comes before inspiration! The experience and commitment that this requires are qualities difficult to replicate or replace in the short-term. It is never too late to take hard and necessary decisions about national policy. Our hospitals are struggling as our nurses, also internationally recognised, have left our shores. Our young people are eagerly sought by universities and institutions overseas, they are simply a plus, they improve the standards. Are we ready to see the teachers follow? It is time to decide on what we value, on that which will enhance our opportunities, our success and those parts of the national fabric that we cannot afford to lose. Time now for leadership and vision, to put our greatest resource, our people, first. If you need inspiration visit a high school valedictory or graduation service in your community. If you are moved then offer your services to the school, work with the teachers and their students to get a sense of the challenge and commitment it takes to motivate success. I am etc., STUART REEVES Principal Jamaica College
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