Minister McConney Calls for Whole-of-Country Approach to Violence in Schools
Minister’s Concerns
Education, Technological and Vocational Training Minister Kay McConney is calling on all stakeholders to adopt a “whole-of-country” approach to violence in schools.
Funding Secured for Counselling Services
In a recorded broadcast, McConney said the ministry had received funding from the Sandy Lane Trust, allowing for the deployment of student counselors to both secondary and primary schools.
Healing Program for Grieving Students and Teachers
The ministry is building a program with the Ministry of People Empowerment to allow access to an expanded pool of social workers and to develop a healing program to support grieving students and teachers.
Minister’s Remarks
"It takes a village to raise a child. We recognize that partnership with the village is crucial and that more support is needed to provide children, teachers, and parents with the support they need. We must recognize that grief is a big thing in the school system. Some have seen their loved ones hurt and killed, and it’s not easy then to pick up and come to school and have to deal with all the other things they have to deal with in life. Therefore, this healing program is meant to help us support our students and teachers through that grieving process."
Violence in Schools
There is concern about violent acts which have happened in some of our schools recently. Members of the public are feeling worried for the safety of our children and worried about violent behavior in the wider society that is making its way into the school environment.
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Children live what they learn, and they bring some of what they know outside of school – the good and the bad. Schools must first and foremost focus on delivering quality education that caters to all, but the ministry cannot avoid being increasingly vigilant and placing greater emphasis on safety and security in these times.
Fighting and Conflict Resolution
Schools must not be the first option for resolving conflict simply because some children have yet to learn how to cope when they get angry. Over the last four to five years, the ministry has had to ‘ramp up’ the number of qualified persons in the Student Services Unit, which deals with psychological and social support for students, parents, teachers, and guardians.
Conclusion
While the problem of violence in schools may seem small, with less than one percent of the total school population in a school system with 37,000 students, it is still a significant concern. The ministry is committed to providing the necessary support to help students and teachers cope with this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ministry doing to address the issue of violence in schools?
A: The ministry is providing counseling services to students and teachers, as well as developing a healing program to support grieving students and teachers.
Q: What is the ministry’s approach to conflict resolution in schools?
A: The ministry emphasizes the importance of teaching children how to cope with anger and resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner.
Q: How does the ministry plan to ensure the safety and security of schools?
A: The ministry is placing greater emphasis on safety and security measures in schools, including training for school principals and staff.
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