WAITAKI BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27266, 17 December 1949, Page 8

WAITAKI BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Sir,—ln reference to the correspondence in your columns regarding the resignation of the rector of Waitaki Boys' High School, I think replies- to the following questions will be of interest to a wide circle of parents who, naturally, are concerned with the welfare of the school: (1) Mr Burrows has publicly stated that he has referred the matter to the Secondary Schools’ Association. Where does the executive meet to consider the case? Will an indication of its decision or finding be released for publication? (2) Did the Dominion executive of the Waitaki Old Boys’ Association hold a special meeting in Oamaru last week to discuss the matter of the rector’s resignation? If so, and should they think that the rector has been unjustly treated, why has no action been taken or public statement made? (3) If an injustice has been done to the rector, why did not the Education Department in Wellington endeavour to rectify the matter? I understand both the rector and the board approached the department to find a fair solution. If no action was taken by the department, surely again the answer is plain. Here are three official bodies which have considered the case and not one has taken any action. I, together with many other parents, am interested in these questions, particularly in regard to the Secondary Schools Association which.. I understand, is. an organisation of the secondary school teachers, including principals.—l am, etc., -. Inquiring Parent.

[The president of the New Zealand Sec* ondary Schools’ Association, Mr E. J. Aim. said he had no coniment to make on this letter in the meantime.—Ed ODT.]

Sir,—ln the of the dispute between the Board of Governors and the rector, one of the root causes of the trouble has been forgotten. For several years, even before the present rector assumed office, a considerable body of the parents was dissatisfied: they believe that the overall quality of the teaching needs lifting. An independent board of inquiry should be set up to inquire into the causes of the present dispute and formulate a constructive policy for the welfare of the scholars of the school. Their welfare only should be considered in relation to the present unhappy plight of the school which-has been brought abput by circumstances of a long-standing nature I am etc.. Observer.

Sir,—The board with its office in Oamarmu controls two high schools. Although Mr Burrows suggests that the secretary should shift his office out to the Boys High School, it should be remembered that the Girls’ High School is equally Important, even if not so prominently in the news at present. , . . Should the board reconsider its decision and grant a special privilege to the rector of the Boys’ High School, win equal powers be granted the principal ol the 'girls’ school? Has anything happened to warrant a change from the practice general throughout New Zealand m making appointments to a school staff?— I am, etc., Onlooker.