IT IS interesting to note some of the concerns after the recently concluded GSAT exams - low grades, non-traditional high schools complaining about underachievers being dumped into their institutions, and principals lashing out at the ministry for the way the placement was done.

I do not agree with them on the placement issue, unless they can prove that the student was not placed according to his or her choice prior to the sitting of the exams.

Underachievers, this is not the real problem. The preparation of these students is a crucial factor. The fact that a student did not pass mathematics or English means more work needs to be done during preparation. In order to improve these results, the problem must be addressed at the grass-roots level. As parents, we have a part to play in the development of our children.

Involved parents needed

Homework is very important and some parents are also challenged as well and are unable to assist the children. Parent-teacher meetings should be the forum for addressing these issues. Parents should endeavour to meet with their child's teacher as often as possible to get an up-to-date report on performance.

Regarding the classroom situation, there are teachers who would like to deliver a more personal touch to their students but are hampered by the number of students in the class. This is an institutional issue. There needs to be some sort of regular assessment in all schools to monitor the performance of the students.

I am, etc.,

DEVON KING

mailbox4844@yahoo.com

Kingston 19