Extra lessons proving difficult at Mineral Heights, Denbigh Primary

Jermaine Francis, Gleaner Writer

MAY PEN, Clarendon:

BOTH THE Mineral Heights and Denbigh primary schools in Clarendon operate on the shift system, and this, their teachers say, adds to the challenges they face in preparing students for the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT).

Denbigh Primary principal, Junior Stewart, told The Gleaner that because of the shift system, the school's teachers are unable to conduct as many extra lessons as they would like.

He said that despite the drawback, the school still tries to facilitate students on both shifts as the extra lessons go a far way in helping them prepare for their exams.

Dalton Shaw, principal of Mineral Heights Primary, said a strategic move was made to get students on the morning shift at his school to stay after class, and those on the afternoon shift to come in a few hours earlier for extra lessons.

However, it is difficult to find adequate space to accommodate the number of student who come in at the same time from the two shifts.

Grateful for the lessons

Luann Morgan, head girl at Denbigh, said even though there are not enough extra lessons, she appreciates those that do occur.

"Lots of things can't be covered in class because of the time. So at extra lessons, I get those things that were never completed in class and it enhance what I also got in class," Luann stated.

Tiana Neita, head girl at Mineral Heights, said she was preparing for the exams and attending extra classes during the week and on weekends to improve on what she got in school.

Melessa Garvey, grade-six teacher at Mineral Heights, said a major challenge faced in preparing the students for the GSAT at that institution has to do with the students' behaviour and their low level of interest.

Garvey said parents should play a more active role in disciplining their children so that when at school, teachers can focus their attention on the planned lessons.

Minerva Morrison, vice-principal and grade-six teacher at Denbigh, said sometimes when they have extra lessons during the week, the students show up late for these classes.

However, she said that she had no major concern about parental support as most of them were involved in the preparation of the students for the GSAT.

"Most of the parents are interested, but more can be done where parents can further assist the school. We have meetings with the parents to ensure they understand the importance of the exam, and encourage them to buy the textbooks," Morrison stated.