WAITAKI BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27259, 9 December 1949, Page 9

WAITAKI BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Sir,—l wish to endorse “ Distant Parent’s ” views expressed in your columns of December 6. Are all the other “ distant parents ” (on whom Waitaki still greatly relies for its support) and Oamaru parents to be given no timely opportunity to express their ideas of the board's handling of this important affair? Is the board to smugly remain in office, or has it the courage to resign, as the rector did, and test the amount of confidence still remaining in its favour by risking re-election? It is to be sincerely hoped that some move will be made in Oamaru to organise a visit to these gentlemen with this idea in view.

Most parents admire, and many hope their sons will emulate, the spirit, courage, humanity and vision of Mr Burrows, who is recognised as one of New Zealand’s most splendid men. What does the present board want —a spineless, weak rector, without initiative or the strength of character to hold to his own ideals and convictions, who will bow- to all decisions, however petty, and tolerate all pin-pricking? New boards are easily elected at any time, but proved leaders of the present rector’s calibre and character are very scarce and difficult to obtain. May Oamaru make every effort while there is still time to retain this fine citizen and watch the school go on from strength to strength under his able guidance.—l am, etc., Another Distant Parent.

Sir,—lf No. 2 Parent ” (apparent) would withdraw his boy from the school it would lessen by one the names on the long waiting lfst for admission, a list built up over the last few years by the faith of the New Zealand public in the present rector. This Solomon whose letter appears in your issue today (“ Floreat Waitakia ”) has omitted one word which would make his statement true. He says, “ has the approval,” etc. Insert the word " not ” after ’’ has.” In this unfortunate matter surely this is plain. A rector makes a recommendation to the board from two ’ applicants. He has worked with both since he has been there. The board turn it down. The rector interprets it as a vote of no-confi-dence in him and resigns. Why not leave it at that?

Can you not put an end to this mass of drivel and mis-statements made by people who pose as “ friends of the school.” who are doing nothing but harm to a school running so smoothly and so well.—l am, etc., Fair Play. Oamaru.

[We have no wish to prolong the correspondence, but it is our view that friends of the school are entitled to express their considered views on a question of importance affecting its future. Personalities are excluded.—Ed. ODT.]