The Editor, Sir:

Do we as a nation truly understand the vital importance of early childhood education and teachers in general, and how both can make a real difference in correcting most of, if not all, the 'ills' of our society? Most times we believe that teachers get too much 'time off' during the summer holidays, and therefore should feel guilty for clamouring for higher wages and benefits. We have no idea about the kinds of stress our teachers (especially our brightest and most caring) undergo on a daily basis, until, of course, one of them drops dead in a classroom in front of students.

My youngest daughter attends one of our inner-city early childhood educational facilities. The following are but only two brief examples of the many issues raised and discussed during PTA meetings:

Case 1

A four-year-old boy, in class, describes in the most graphic language the sex act to other students in a classroom. He is caught on several occasions simulating sex acts. Upon enquiry the teacher learnt that he (the student) regularly watches X-rated movies with his father. She sent a note with the child requesting the parents to visit the school. They did not show up. She then took it upon herself to visit the child's home, which is nearby. While speaking to the parents she found out that, yes, the father did allow the child to watch X-rated movies, but what was even more surprising to the teacher was the response of the mother, 'Me noh wah me son turn no b...man das why me mek 'im watch it'. Fortunately, the parents were willing to listen to her and she (the teacher) believes that she was successful in convincing the parents to limit what the child views.

Case 2

A problem faced by the teacher of a group of five-year-olds was that four students (three boys and a girl) claimed to be 'bad man' or 'bad gal'. They 'terrorised' the other students and were disruptive during class sessions. After much stress, the teacher found a way to minimise the problem; seat the four at one table. They were all 'bad man/gal' but they were afraid of each other. Notes were sent to the parents requesting that they come in to theschool. None showed up. The children's homes were visited. The girl's mother was found. She (the mother) was very defensive and did not take kindly to being told of her child's disruptive behaviour in school. The teacher eventually had to leave after realising that she was getting nowhere. Parents who knew the mother stated that they were not surprised as they perceived her as 'ignorant and feisty'. One boy's mother expressed shock and surprise at news of their son's wayward behaviour. Boy number two's guardians were not located.

The guardian of boy number three, the most disruptive of the lot, was located. The boy's mother recently migrated to USA. His guardian complained that the boy's mother does not send money to maintain the child on a daily basis, and instead sends brand name items of clothing from time to time. The teacher said that it was obvious that the guardian resented having to maintain the child as the guardian had his/her children to consider and may be taking it out his/her frustration on the child.

Those at the meeting asked why the child was not expelled, since he was so uncontrollable. The teacher responded by saying that once he is in school and in her care, she may just be the one person whose love and concern may help prevent him from becoming the gunman who might mercilessly take her life one day!

We need to support our teachers as their job is not an easy one, and extends far beyond a mere classroom. After parents and guardians, teachers are our second 'line of defence' in a true fight against crime and violence.

I am, etc.,

EVERTON BONNER

Kingston