Dear Editor,
The upcoming Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) presidential election has not generated as much buzz as in former years. There have been whispers in education circles as to a possible reason(s) for this rather dull and uninspiring campaign among the candidates vying to become leader of the 20,000-plus teachers in the public education system.
Two possibilities have emerged to explain the lack of interest in the election, which is less than two weeks away. Is it possible that the 2014 candidates are not as imposing as in former years? Secondly, is it that the voter apathy which affects the general voting population has now caught up with the eligible voters in the upcoming JTA election?
Regardless of the answer, there has not been a clear favourite among the candidates. This occurrence is rather disappointing, especially since the JTA, is celebrating its 50th-year anniversary.
A number of issues have once again emerged as the candidates enter the final two weeks for the June 16-20 president-elect selection of 2014. One troubling issue is the fact that principals have a clear advantage over classroom teachers in the annual polls. In many quarters the debate rages on as to whether the JTA should represent both principals and classroom teachers. It is reason to argue that once one becomes a principal or vice-principal his/her concerns change from that of the average classroom teacher.
Also, campaigning in any election is financially burdensome. Each candidate is expected to travel to all 14 parishes to speak to teachers at various schools to get their support. In quite a number of instances the classroom teacher does not own a vehicle, while in most instances principals do. The elections would be more balanced if the JTA were to set aside some sort of travelling allowance so that candidates who are in need of such support could benefit.
Additionally, aspirants need time-off from school to campaign. The classroom teacher, in this regard, will also be at a disadvantage. A principal has the privilege of taking the time off from school while this position of privilege does not extent to the classroom teacher. Some special leave entitlement should be afforded to classroom teachers who are candidates in these elections.
Historically, males have been more "privileged" regarding the presidency of the JTA. I appeal to all those who have a vote to carefully scrutinise all five candidates and not allow themselves to be swayed by the sex and/or social class of the candidates. We are in need of transformational leadership at this time in our country's development.
The JTA needs to move with the times and organise debates among all candidates. We need to hear all the candidates articulate their plans and vision. Stakeholders could then judge the suitability, or lack thereof of candidates.
Let us be reminded that the most popular candidate is not necessarily the best to lead. In voting for the next president I urge educators to vote for that candidate who is best suited to represent their interest and the image of the teacher in the 21st century.
Wayne Campbell
waykam@yahoo.com
www.wayaine.blogspot.com
JTA prez polls going under the radar
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The upcoming Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) presidential election has not generated as much buzz as in former years. There have been whispers in education circles as to a possible reason(s) for this rather dull and uninspiring campaign among the candidates vying to become leader of the 20,000-plus teachers in the public education system.
Two possibilities have emerged to explain the lack of interest in the election, which is less than two weeks away. Is it possible that the 2014 candidates are not as imposing as in former years? Secondly, is it that the voter apathy which affects the general voting population has now caught up with the eligible voters in the upcoming JTA election?
Regardless of the answer, there has not been a clear favourite among the candidates. This occurrence is rather disappointing, especially since the JTA, is celebrating its 50th-year anniversary.
A number of issues have once again emerged as the candidates enter the final two weeks for the June 16-20 president-elect selection of 2014. One troubling issue is the fact that principals have a clear advantage over classroom teachers in the annual polls. In many quarters the debate rages on as to whether the JTA should represent both principals and classroom teachers. It is reason to argue that once one becomes a principal or vice-principal his/her concerns change from that of the average classroom teacher.
Also, campaigning in any election is financially burdensome. Each candidate is expected to travel to all 14 parishes to speak to teachers at various schools to get their support. In quite a number of instances the classroom teacher does not own a vehicle, while in most instances principals do. The elections would be more balanced if the JTA were to set aside some sort of travelling allowance so that candidates who are in need of such support could benefit.
Additionally, aspirants need time-off from school to campaign. The classroom teacher, in this regard, will also be at a disadvantage. A principal has the privilege of taking the time off from school while this position of privilege does not extent to the classroom teacher. Some special leave entitlement should be afforded to classroom teachers who are candidates in these elections.
Historically, males have been more "privileged" regarding the presidency of the JTA. I appeal to all those who have a vote to carefully scrutinise all five candidates and not allow themselves to be swayed by the sex and/or social class of the candidates. We are in need of transformational leadership at this time in our country's development.
The JTA needs to move with the times and organise debates among all candidates. We need to hear all the candidates articulate their plans and vision. Stakeholders could then judge the suitability, or lack thereof of candidates.
Let us be reminded that the most popular candidate is not necessarily the best to lead. In voting for the next president I urge educators to vote for that candidate who is best suited to represent their interest and the image of the teacher in the 21st century.
Wayne Campbell
waykam@yahoo.com
www.wayaine.blogspot.com
JTA prez polls going under the radar
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