WORKLESS TEACHERS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXII, Issue 148, 25 June 1931, Page 8

WORKLESS TEACHERS.

DISCUSSION BY INSTITUTE. appeal to the employed. ASSISTANCE FOR .THE NEEDY. The serious nature of unemployment among teachers was discussed recently at a special meeting of the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Educational Institute. Reference was made to the danger that existed through having 500 certificated teachers out of work, and the Government was criticised for allowing large classes to be handled by a single teacher and curtailing the services of relieving teachers. It was decided to urge on the Government the necessity for wider employment of teachers. It was suggested that the Unemployment Board's operations should be extended to include women, and 'that more latitude, should be given as to the kind of work undertaken on relief works. It was . submitted that although it might not .be possible to employ teachers for odd days, in class teaching, they could at least be engaged in preparing teaching apparatus and undertaking much clerical work. A proposal that teachers be urged to accept a common levy of 2s-per cent on their salaries for use in the employment of teachers was rejected. It was thought that this would establish a bad precedent that might readily be used by administrators as a reason for shelving responsibility. Fear was also expressed that a voluntary reduction in salary might easily become permanent, and that there would be no assurance that the money raised would be used for the purpose agreed upon. Practical .sympathy with unemployed teachers was, however, expressed by a resolution agreed... upon unanimously .to urge the institute to ask for voluntary contributions to a fund to be distributed among those in need of financial assistance. Finally it was decided to instruct the executive to make a personal and pressing appeal to those" who are eligible for superannuation to retire as soon as possible so as to open up positions for others. It was thought that this would •be a very practical ...way of showing sympathy with the unemployed. A statement by the branch states: "We feel that all- possible aspects of the position, have been explored and believe -that if State and teachers both readily share the responsibilities sngI gested that the solution of the employment of at least one group in the community .will tie found."