Costly high school registration packages worry National PTA

President of the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica (NPTAJ), Everton Hannam says something must be done about registration packages at high schools.

With Grade Six Achievement Tests results and placements now out, several high schools have instructed parents and guardians of new students to collect registration packages.

The packages range in cost from $1,500 to as high as $9,000 and generally include identification cards, Insurance, some Physical education gear, hymnals, handbooks, pins and other school items.

However, the NPTAJ president says several of the items included in the package shouldn't be compulsory.

He is insisting that parents should be able to shop around and ensure they get the best deal for these purchases. 

Hannam says there needs to be some order to the system of school packages and more freedom to parents.

Meanwhile, Education Minister, Ronald Thwaites says schools should explain what's included in these packages as parents and guardians seek to enroll their children in high schools.