PROMOTING EDUCATION.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 July 1922, Page 4

PROMOTING EDUCATION.

There is no more important work devolving upon the State than that of making the education system as perfect as possible. The actual process is, of course, committed to the teachers, ibut equally important is the administrative part entrusted to the Education Boards, who appoint the teachers and practically carry out the details of the system. It is obvious, therefore that the position of chairman of the Taranaki Education Board is one that demands special qualifications as well as the sacrifice of both time and money if the cause of education is to progress satisfactorily and the best use made of the educational means available. It is equally patent that the holder of that office ought to be a man of sound business training, progressive views and unbounded enthusiasm, 'and such men are difficult to obtain, because in most cases they place their own affairs before the : advantage that tho public may gain from their services. Under these cir- ; cu instances, it is not to be wondered at that the announcement made by the present chairman of tho board (Mr. P. J. H. White) at its last meeting, that he would not seek re-election for a further term, has evoked a feeling of regret, together with a sincere hope that Mr. White may reconsider his decision and continue to fill a position for which he is peculiarly fitted. During his term of office he has spared no trouble or pains to make himself acquainted with the conditions which prevail in every school in the district, while in his dealings with the Department he han at least impressed the officials, as well as the Minister, that th; Taranaki Board may be trusted to do what is right in administering the needs of education. Moreover, he has stimulated both teachers and scholars to make the most of their opportunities, and in every way earned the gratitude and appreciation of all concerned. For a busy citizen to thus whole-heartedly serve the public necessarily entails great sacrifices, and, hut for the urgent need for a continu- , ance of those services, some hesitation might be expected in asking for the continuity. It is certainly the wish of the community that Mr. White should not, at this juncture, resign from office, nor is he. in our opinion, the man to let yo the call for guidance of the board’s i affairs is so unanimous. Success always has its penalties, but the knowledge that the perfect filling of a niche is of benefit to the community, and that services rendered are fully appreciated, will, 170 : '-rvz'., prompt Mr. White to retain the friz?' -ship he has filled with honor to himself and great advantage to all concerned in educational affairs.