OBA’s Smith On Education, Research & More
“Parents, teachers and school leaders have lived through years of uncertainty as reform plans evolved,” have “earned the right to understand why the Government believes returning to a two-tier system is now the correct path” and “if research has been carried out, publish it,” Opposition Leader Ben Smith said.
Mr Smith, who is also the Shadow Minister for Education & Sport, said, “Recently, Minister of Education Diallo Rabain said all data and feedback gathered over the past few years points to one conclusion: that a true two-tier public school system is the best model for Bermuda.
“That is a significant assertion, and one that deserves to be backed up with evidence that the public can see for themselves.
“Education is too important for decisions of this scale to rest on assurances alone. Parents, teachers and school leaders have lived through years of uncertainty as reform plans evolved, timelines shifted and implementation was delayed. They have earned the right to understand why the Government believes returning to a two-tier system is now the correct path.
“If research has been carried out, publish it. If experts have advised the Government, let the public hear what they recommended.
“If consultations have taken place, share what people said and explain how those views shaped the decisions that are now being made.
“A transparent government builds public confidence. It also leads to better decisions because ideas can be tested, challenged and improved.
“The Minister has spoken about rebuilding trust. Transparency is one of the best ways to achieve that.
“This should not be seen as a political request. It is a reasonable expectation in a modern democracy. Major public policy should be open to public scrutiny, especially when it affects every family with children in our public schools.
“The One Bermuda Alliance is not afraid of change. If the evidence clearly shows that a two-tier system will deliver better educational outcomes for Bermuda’s children, then that evidence should strengthen the Government’s case.
“If the evidence is compelling, people will support it.
“If there are differing views, those should also be part of an honest public discussion.
“Good ideas do not become weaker because they are examined. They become stronger.
“Education reform will only succeed if parents and teachers have confidence not just in the destination, but in the decisions that are being made along the way.
“That is why I am calling on the Minister to publish the evidence, the research and the consultation findings that support this next phase of reform.
“The public should not be asked to simply accept that the evidence exists.
“They should be given the opportunity to read it, understand it and judge it for themselves.”
