Fri | Mar 29, 2024

The other side of teacher migration

Published:Thursday | December 1, 2022 | 12:08 AM

THE EDITOR, Madam:

It is quite unfortunate that the entire focus regarding the perennial migration of our educators was on teachers, and that the psychological impact on students was not included in discussions. One cannot logically argue against an individual who opts for apparently greener pastures in an attempt to meet various needs. However, for a discourse to have some level of objectivity, both sides of the story should be included and in this case, the other is the impact that this is having on our nation’s children. Unlike most adults, many children are not yet at the stage to grapple with the inevitability of change as a part of life. As a result, they are unable to fully comprehend what is happening and are therefore negatively impacted. One cannot ignore the importance of the bond between many students and their respective teachers. At times, this bond could mean the difference between mediocrity and performances that exceed expectations. I have had discussions with students who lament about having trust issues, due to the seemingly perpetual change in teachers within a short time. This is an issue that I believe should be delved into in order to provide intervention - where necessary - for students, and to try and retain our best educators. Students need stability and continuity at their home away from home which, I believe, is of paramount importance to their development.

MIKHAIL A. GRAHAM