The Editor, Sir:

This is in response to The Sunday Gleaner article by Esther Tyson:

Well said, Ms Tyson. This has been the best defence since the debate. I wondered why a school administrator did not take this approach before. Nothing is more telling than hard, cold facts.

I am a parent with a daughter in high school. Yes, I was astounded when the $12,000 auxiliary fee was presented to me, but when the outline of its use was provided, I resolved to make the effort to pay.

Unfortunately, if the compliance rate in schools is low, then many of the programmes planned for its use will not be realised, and the children who pay will also suffer with those who have not.

Make an effort

Parents, let us make the effort. Think of the many things we spend on that we could rechannel towards our children's education.

The Government has another agenda. It must appear to be making it easier for the populace, but don't be fooled. If our children were to go through school on the govern-ment's provision alone, we would be assured of even worse results at the CSEC level and less rounded individuals to face the tertiary challenge. So, let us wise up and do our part.

I am, etc.,

SHYRILL POWELL

shypow1@yahoo.com