"GRAVE STATE OF AFFAIRS."

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 8, Issue 487, 5 December 1919, Page 2

" GRAVE STATE OF AFFAIRS."

At Papatoetoe School Shocking Hygenic Conditions Teacher and Scholars Fainting 'Own Correspondent)

A very grave state of affairs obtain at our local school. The present buildings are quite inadequate for the cumber of scholars attending, their capacity being about 250 scholars, whereas at the present time there is a roll of 350 Nothing is being done to relieve the congestion. One day recently one of the teachers fainted, also one of the scholars, seven others having to be sent home, as they were too unwell to continue their lessons. Such a state is certainly a disgrace to all concerned. The sanitary - arrangements are such as tc be a menace to the health, not only of the children, but of the community at large. It is understood that the Board of Education has absolutely refused to allow a septic tank to be installed. If this is so, it is time the residents took the matter up and demanded the enlargement of the school and a proper system of sanitation, otherwise, if an epidemic breaks out. they, with the Board of Education and School Committee, will stand condemned in the public eye.