OVERCROWDING AT SCHOOLS.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 July 1921, Page 4

OVERCROWDING AT SCHOOLS.

The growth of the population in New Plymouth and its suburbs has naturally emphasised the inadequacy of the accommodation provided for children attending school. At the recent meeting of the Fitzroy Ratepayers’ Association the overcrowded state of the school was discussed, and it was decided to press upon the notice of the Education Board that the conditions were endangering the health of the children, and required immediate relief. It was stated that ninety-six children had to be taught in one room which was only built to hold fifty-six pupils. Under such conditions it is not surprising that epidemics flourish and the health of the rising generation suffers. The state of affairs at the west end of the town is almost as serious, a side school having to be held in a draughty and unsuitable building, because no other building could be obtained. Parliament having made attendance at school compulsory, the duty of the Government is to provide adequate and suitable accommodation for the children. The plea of want of funds cannot be accepted as an excuse for fostering epidemics and menacing the lives of those who are compelled to be herded together for several hours of the day in such a way as would not be tolerated in any undertaking outside State control. The excuse is one that would certainly not be accepted by a magistrate if put forward by a factory employer charged with overcrowding. It is the duty of the Government to provide sanitary conditions for school children* and. »it the forthcoming visit of

the Minister of Education to New Plymouth this matter should be impressed on him with all possible, strength, for it has grown to serious dimensions, and needs to be promptly remedied. Money can be found for all sorts of things far less urgent than schools. The Minister should insist on sufficient funds being granted to make the conditions of school life tolerable and free from the constant ill effects of overcrowding.