SCHOOL TEACHERS

Southland Times, Issue 20202, 13 June 1927, Page 8

SCHOOL TEACHERS

RIGHT 0E APPEAL PAYMENT OF REMOVAL EXPENSES DEPUTATION TO MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT (Per United Press Association.) Palmerston North, June 12. The Manawatu branch of the Educational Institute met Messrs J. A. Nash and J. Linklater, members of Parliament, on Saturday in the annual conference prior to the opening of Parliament. Matters brought up included the right of appeal against non-appointment, the paying of removal expenses when teachers are on transfer, reduction in the size of classes and confidential reports exchanged between boards when teachers apply for a new position. A strong case was presented by the institute and both members promised to support the petitions when education matters are being discussed in Parliament. Mr Swinbourne, president of the institute, said that the right of appeal affected the institute throughout New Zealand, and provided a medium through which teachers could appeal against a lower graded applicant being appointed before a higher graded. The teachers were satisfied with the grading list but considered boards and inspectors departed too much therefrom. They wanted the right to have appointments received by a board and cause shown why these appointments were passed over. They also wanted confidential reports which were of adverse character tabled before the institute and a teacher to be allowed to give his version of the case. He appealed to have removal expenses granted when on transfer as teachers had at present to buy promotion, it costing more than the increase in salary for two years to make up the cost of removal. The deputation urged a reduction of classes at present over 35 as children’s individuality was affected. Mr Nash, in reply, said the Minister and Government have to adopt the bold policy of spending one million on buildings in one year. He was sympathetic with all the petitions as being reasonable. Mr Linklater also promised his support in the house. The Minister would not be allowed to forget the promise to deal with appeal rights this session.