The Editor, Sir:

I believe that it is time that the Ministry of Education took a look at our schools' vacation schedule, especially in light of the recent storms that have devastated Jamaica and the upcoming storms that continue to threaten the learning process.

Recently, Tropical Storm Gustav has left the administration of many schools in St Mary and St Thomas scrambling to get ready for the return of their students for early September.

More storms forming

However, statistics reveal that many hurricanes are now coming to our island during the September months. Just to mention a few, Gilbert came September 1988, Ivan came September 2004 and, lately, Gustav came September 2008 and there are many more examples.

It appears that storms are now more likely to be formed during late August and the early September days.

Since the hurricane season begins in June and ends in November in the Caribbean, let us consider moving school opening from September to October and use August and September as the summer break.

Keeping schools open during April to make up for the missed days in September, thereby spending less time in the classroom during that very tumultuous season.

Why should we adopt an American or British model for our schools when our former head, the United Kingdom, does not experience many hurricanes and most American states are not affected by hurricanes?

Additionally, summer is an all-year season in Jamaica, so nothing would be missed in terms of the weather for our students.

I am, etc.,

KAREEN HEWITT

kareen_hewitt@hotmail.com

Shelburne, Ontario