CONTROL OF SCHOOLS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29680, 25 November 1961, Page 14

CONTROL OF SCHOOLS

Big Changes Considered

Education Department officers bad the Commission on Education that education boards be reconstituted district educational councils, controlling boot primary and post-primary education in a district, the Papanui High School hoard of governors was advised by the Post-Primary Teachers Association by the principal of the school (Mr L. B. Newton). A tetter signed by the president of the ,as»ciato« (Mr A G. A. Baigent) said the suggestion was supported by the Education Boards Association. . ‘‘l would like all principals to make their boards aware of the strong suggestion from the Education Department to change the administrative control of both primary and secondary schools,” the letter said. Mr Baigent said it was suggested the 10 present board areas be divided to create 14 district councils. “According to evidence given before the commission, department officers, thinking this proposal ‘worthy of very serious consideration,' said it would permit localities no have responsibility not only for finance but also for development, and to give thought to educational efhciency and progress’the letter said. Mr Baigent said this would involve the transfer of some powers vested in postprimary boards of governors or in the Education Department, but, allegedly, it would not take responsibility from the board of governors. Commenting on the letter, the chairman of the board (Mr R. C. Chilvers) said that as far as most post-primary schools were concerned, the suggestion was met by the Post-Primary Schools’ Council. “It is a far-reaching proposition, and could revolutionise the administration of education,” said Mr Chilvers. The suggestion will be discussed at the February meeting of the board.