The relocation of St Stephen’s Nursery students to the nearby St Stephen’s Anglican Church did not go as planned today.
As a result, the students will spend several days this week receiving instructions from at home.
Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Archer-Bradshaw gave that update at the Black Rock, St Michael compound following a visit from the Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) and some pushback from parents of the reception students.
“We were experiencing environmental problems at the Nursery and last Friday the school was closed to accommodate the rectification of that problem. However, on Monday after making contact with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, it was said the issue had not been rectified to the satisfaction of the health authorities,” Archer-Bradshaw said.
“The recommendation was made to make contact with the Priest in charge at St Stephen’s Church to see if it could facilitate classes. . . However, on arriving here they recognised that there were some issues. The situation was untenable in relation to the lighting and some said that it was very hot and there were other issues highlighted as well. Given that we decided to come to the plant.”
Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Archer-Bradshaw making a point to president of the Barbados Union of Teachers, Rudy Lovell. (Picture by Tre Greaves)
After speaking to the teachers and parents who were at the plant, the chief said they decided to change the plans.
“The children will remain at home tomorrow and Thursday. During that time the students will be furnished with work online so that their parents can assist them. Some teachers also agreed for the children to take home materials so that they can be engaged meaningfully during those two days.
“Then on Friday there will be sports at Queen’s College,” she said.
During the visit, the union officials pointed out that the stench that emanated from a nearby house/farm was permeating the compound of the nursery. The Nation understands that the individual had been asked to slaughter the animals that were contributing to the stench.
When we visited, no one was at the property.
Archer-Bradshaw said they were still consulting the Ministry of Health about the matter.
“We are in constant contact with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and they have assured us of a speedy resolution,” she added. (TG)