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Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Editorial: School blues
IN A few days, school season starts again, which means that at this point in time, parents are in over their heads over expenses (read: tuition, new uniforms, new shoes, notebooks, other school supplies, etc.). Sigh. We're sure they've been having sleepless nights.
But it comes with the territory of being responsible parents -- primary goal of which is giving their children education. It's hard, we know, especially if you have a big family.
That is why there have been complaints (they usually come at this time of year) of some public schools collecting enrolment fees from their students. Some also claimed that the reports cards of children who failed to pay the fees during the last school year were withheld by teachers.
Of course, school officials are quick to deny that they are imposing fees on the children.
In a statement, school officials from the Dau Central Elementary School (DCES), said they only receive authorized and voluntary contributions from their enrollees.
And these contributions, they said, were approved by the parents themselves during a general assembly last April. These payments can even be made on an installment basis, the officials added.
In a column by Jun Malig which came out in Sun.Star Pampanga last Monday, he reminded parents that enrolment is free. Last year, the education department issued an order stating that students in public elementary and secondary schools have the right to enroll without being compelled to pay any amounts as requirement for enrolment.
It may be that some mistake voluntary contributions for enrolment fees.
This happens sometimes when there is no proper orientation, or school officials fail to point out to parents the difference between the two.
At this point when people are going ga-ga over the expenses the new school year entails, it would do well if they are made to understand what they are paying for.
(May 31, 2006 issue)
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