The State School.

Feilding Star, Volume III, Issue 107, 22 May 1883, Page 2

The State School.

TO THE EDITOE OF THE STAE. Sie, — I noticed a letter in the AdI vocate of May 17th, signed " Justice," j but I think "Justice" must be one of j those who preach but do not practice justice, which is evident by his trying to uphold such a flagrant neglect of duties on the part of a servant of the public. " Justice " evidently has no children attending the school, and has no interest whatever in its management. If he would take the trouble to get the opinion of the parents he would see the matter in a new light. As to the attendance of Mrs Dowling, it has been anything but satisfactory for months past — not only in the half hour in the mornings, but hours and half-days, as many of the parents can testify; and as to having authority for the same, I believe it is a mistatement. It is not only bad attendance, but general neglect of duties, that the committee seem to have acted upon, and I hope they will carry out the work they have begun. By so doing they will earn the thanks of all the parents of the children attending the school. "Justice" seems to think that as Mrs Dowling has been niue years in the school she should be privileged, and ihat should be a sufficient guarantee that she is qualified for her position, which I doubt. I believe the master admitted to the committee that Mrs Dowling was an uncertificated teacher. If so, I cannot see what qualification she holds to fill tbe important position as mistress* of this large school. Perhaps "Justice" has a little personal feeling in this matter, and would sacrifice justice to the scholars to benefit a friend ; but I hope the Education Board will carry out the recommendations of the committee, and help to laise this school out of its present low state by appointing good and qualified teachers. — I am, &c, Parent. Feilding, May 19.