TRANSFER OF TEACHER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20162, 24 January 1929, Page 13

TRANSFER OF TEACHER.

RIBE IN SCHOOL GRADE.

AUCKLAND BOARD'S SYSTEM.

PROTEST BY A COMMITTEE

The system recently inaugurated by the Auckland Education Board of transferring teachers where their schools have risen in grade and to advertise the vacant positions was criticised at a meeting of the board yesterday. A deputation from the Awaken (Bay of Plenty) School Committee waited on the board, protesting against the proposal to transfer a young teacher from the charge of the school, which has risen in grade.

It was stated the teacher had done well at the school and his grading marks for four years had advanced 16, 13, 9 and 9 respectively, whereas the average was 6. The teacher was well liked in the district and took a keen interest in all activities. B.esidents feared an unsuitable teacher might follow. The chairman, Mr. A. Burns, said the board had about 20 such cases to deal with as a result of its recent decision. It had been considered teachers would have a fairer chance to obtain positions if they were advertised. There were cases where teachers in a rapidly-growing area benefited to the detriment of their colleagues. However, there were disadvantages, as was shown in the present case. He could appreciate the wishes of the local residents desiring to retain a young energetic teacher who had proved himself.

"We have made a rod for our own backs with tins system," said Mr. H. S. W. King. "I think we should endeavour to follow tne wishes of the committee."

Mr. Burns said it was not necessary for the board to adhere strictly to its decision as there were cases which called for discretion. Not all the positions which rose in grade called for a transfer of the teacher.

"We have the whole thing upside down," said Mr. E. C. Banks. "If a teacher raiues the standard of a school he is transferred, and if he drags it down he is transferred to a better school." Mr. Burns said he would like the young teacher to stay, but the system willed otherwise. However, the transfer might not be made until 12 months, as a suitable position had to be found for the present teacher at the school. He was also ablb to apply when the position was advertised. By that time he might have accumulated mor» grading marks. Tho trouble at present was that he was too young and he had insufficient grading marks.

It was decided to inform the Awakeri committee that the present system had to be adhered to.