Mass Reassignments Of Administrators Leave Many Schools Unprepared

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – With teachers reporting to classrooms in just days and students set to follow shortly after, the Bahamas Educators Managerial Union says the school system is already in disarray.

Union President Steven McPhee, who represents principals, vice principals, and senior masters and mistresses, says constant reassignments by the Ministry of Education are creating instability across schools.

STEVEN MCPHEE – PRESIDENT, BAHAMAS EDUCATORS MANAGERIAL UNION
“This massive reassignment exercise, they call it, often happens without need. Schools with strong administrative teams are being broken up. We’ve asked why, but in most cases we get pushback from the ministry.”

The union is particularly concerned about the Family Islands, where key positions like vice principals are often left vacant, forcing principals and senior teachers to shoulder additional workloads.

STEVEN MCPHEE – PRESIDENT, BAHAMAS EDUCATORS MANAGERIAL UNION
“It’s out of order, and a breach of the intent of the public service. In New Providence, schools are fully staffed. But for the past decade, family island schools, teachers, students, and communities, have been disadvantaged.”

Our News reached out to the Ministry of Education for comment but was unable to get a response.

As the new term approaches, McPhee warns frustration among educators has reached a breaking point.

STEVEN MCPHEE – PRESIDENT, BAHAMAS EDUCATORS MANAGERIAL UNION
“The opening days are going to be rough. We can’t continue to serve without receiving the support or benefits we’ve earned. It’s grossly wrong, and we’re not prepared to accept it any longer.”

The union is calling on Members of Parliament to assess schools in their constituencies and ensure Family Island institutions receive the same staffing and support as those in New Providence.