Hannam: Drop off kids and go home
Published:Tuesday | March 14, 2017 | 12:00 AMJodi-Ann Gilpin
Parents are being urged to create an environment that will provide relaxation and comfort for their children as they sit the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) this Thursday and Friday.
Everton Hannam, president of the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica, said it was imperative that children were reassured and encouraged as they make final preparations.
"When you go to school, drop off the kids and go home. Don't take a day off, don't sit under the mango tree or gather in the car park; the children will be just fine. Go to work and enjoy your day equally," he advised.
ALL SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS
He also cautioned students not to be concerned with their secondary-school placements but, instead, to focus on doing their best in the GSAT.
"I'm going to remind our students, do not consider it so much an exam, because with this exam, there is no pass or fail because already you are all successful students at whatever level you have reached," Hannam said.
"This exam is just, to some extent, going to indicate which secondary institution you will be placed [in] to continue your dynamic performance. So whatever the results, it will not be one to indicate whether you have passed or failed; you are just being placed in an institution to continue the excellent work you have been doing."
He added, "We want to commend you for reaching thus far. Just continue to do well, continue to be brave."
The president also used the opportunity to express gratitude to the teachers and encouraged them to continue the great work.
"Teachers, thank you for carrying our students this far in terms of preparation for this exam. You have done well in preparing them. Congratulations, and thank you for leading the fight and carrying education to our children and allowing them to perform as best as they can," he declared.