Petrina Francis, Staff Reporter
IN AN effort to encourage more educators to apply to the master teacher programme, the Ministry of Education and Youth says it will be revamping the programme.
According to the education ministry, master teachers are those who demonstrate mastery in the art of teaching. A master teacher achieves excellence in an area of current practice, commands respect of students and colleagues, upholds the ideals of the teaching profession, and contributes to the development of school, community and country.
Dorrett Campbell, director of communications in the Education Ministry, said the programme began in 1999 but that, to date, only 41 teachers have been recommended for appointment.
PROMOTED
She also pointed out that the number of master teachers has been reduced because some were promoted to principals.
Campbell told The Gleaner that some persons complained that the application process was rigorous and schools were not benefiting. She added that another complaint was that the job description of master teachers was not clearly developed.
To this end, Campbell said the job descriptions are now being developed and the application process will be more user friendly. She said a suggestion has also been made for the appointment of master teachers for a period of five years with an option of renewing.
Meanwhile, Ruel Reid, president of the Jamaica Teachers' Association, has welcomed the education ministry's decision to revamp the programme.
According to Mr. Reid, the master teacher programme provides an alternative route for experienced teachers who want to continue in the education system without becoming principals.
Mr. Reid, who is himself a master teacher, said the programme is a good way of rewarding excellence.
Interested persons can apply to the Ministry of Education and Youth.
