Classrooms in Saint Lucia are getting smaller, not just because of fewer births, but also because more students are skipping school. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre said that over 120 students are missing from school, and truancy now affects both boys and girls.
To address this, the government will increase the number of truancy officers from one to four. They will work with principals, teachers and social workers to determine why students are not attending school.
Minister of Education Kenson Casimir emphasised that truancy contributes directly to declining classroom numbers, compounding the impact of low birth rates, an ageing population and emigration. Class sizes that once averaged 30 students now sometimes fall below 15.
Casimir explained that the government is reviewing suspension policies and intends to repurpose underused classrooms for special education and technical training.
The government also plans to bring in more school counsellors and behaviour specialists, using data to find out why students are missing school. Casimir said that policies will be based on evidence, and Pierre highlighted the need for statistics to guide solutions.
Officials are also worried about students dropping out in Forms Three and Four. Because of this, the upcoming budget will focus on special education and early childhood programmes.
The budget debate starts on April 21, when Pierre will present the government’s plans for these challenges and reforms.
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