Opinion prompts disbelief

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 512, 16 November 1993, Page 2

Opinion prompts disbelief

R

Palmer

Parents reply □ In response to last week's letter from The Ruapehu Principals Association regarding the group of parents that were to meet to discuss a number of issues regard-

ing education. We attended that meeting and far from being a 'kangaroo court', it was a very businesslike and amicable meeting providing an obviously much needed forum for discussion with speakers from both sides having their 'say'. Thankyou, Mrs Bates, for the time and effort you put into this meeting. The chairman of the board of trustees is now fully aware of the strength of feeling regarding the issues and we all eagerly await the boards' response.

Allan and Terril Nation.

Supporters thanked □ I wish to express my thanks and appreciation to everyone who assisted in our Rangitikei Electorate campaign. I would also like to thank all those who voted Christian Heritage. We achieved nearly 4% of the vote in the Rangitikei Electorate (which was the third highest vote count of the 98 seats contested.) A vote for the principles you believe in is never a wasted vote. With MMP prevailing, this is a victory for democracy and we trust will assist in the security of the sovereignty which

% was being sacrificed for a place in the very dangerous 'New World Order.' I believe that under MMP, it will be possible for voters to really express themselves in a way which was difficult this election. MMP will affect the Christian Heritage Party in a very positive way as we achieve the 5% level we would gain 6-7 seats in Parliament. We-ve obtained much experience from contesting two elections and now must work even harder to be prepared for the next election. Once again, thank-you to all party and non-party members for your support.

Keith

Bureess

Candidate for the Rangitikei Electorate

Teacner repnes □ I feel compelled to reply to June Bates' letter, Ruapehu Bulletin 2 November. As a teacher of 15 years (seven in a senior position), I read Mrs Bates opinion that "in most cases a student's level is really only a reflection of the teacher' s ability to teach or inspire an interest in any given subject" - with disbelief. Certainly a teacher' s skill and enthusiasm have an influence on childrens' learning. However, anyone familiar with educational theory regarding conditions for learning, would appreciate that there are many variables that affect progress. Too often it becomes a convenient 'out' for parents/the community to dump blame on a school or teacher. Ill-in-formed generalisations like that expressed by Mrs Bates, only encourage parents/care-givers to justify avoiding parental responsibility regarding their child's learning.

Enough is enough. □ Several kids missed out on seeing Santa last weekend at their Christmas break-ups, because my Santa suit was not returned to me (I hope the person responsible is reading this.) I Turn to page 3

LETTERS

From page 2 also hope the many other locals who borrow this outfit for their functions will be able to find a substitute. I have, for the past 6-7 years lent out my fancy dress costumes (Santa included) and up until now I have had them returned to me immediately after use. This is the first year I have ever had so much hassle. I hate to say it, but

this will be the last year. Due to other commitments I' will be unable to make another Santa suit this year. My apology goes out to Waiouru Kindergarten as no doubt they were looking forward to seeing Santa.

Raewyn

Pearson

PS (Thanks to those of Turoa who did their best to try and locate my property.)