The Editor, Sir:

I am one parent who is not pleased that the schools in the area surrounding Sabina Park will be closed for two weeks in March. The Ministry of Education gave their 'blessings', but did this decision have the 'blessings' of the concerned principals and PTAs?

I read in one news item that they are being closed for the safety of the children. If that is the considered reason, then close all the schools in Kingston and St. Andrew, and not the ones that are considered to be 'inner-city schools'. I must say that this is how one of the greatest high schools in the world was termed by the then Minister of Education in 1999. If it is for safety, then should not the safety of all students be considered?

I am sure that all students in Jamaica will be sitting the GSAT at the same time and all the SBAs (School-based Assessments) are due at the same time, and this is understandably so. Why then should these students be placed at a disadvantage by being out of school for two weeks, while life goes on as usual for the remaining student population of Jamaica?

My suggestion is, level the playing field, close all the schools since they will all be doing the same exams and have the same deadlines. Do not be guilty of making some more equal than some.

I am, etc.,

M. WILLIAMS