It was a bit disappointing (see related story) to note that parents of children who are repeatedly absent from school cannot be fined, despite the possibility for such in St. Maarten’s compulsory education legislation. It seems there are no truancy officials currently certified to do so.
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports (ECYS) Melissa Gumbs assured the Inspectorate continues to carry out its statutory responsibilities and that attendance is being monitored through established reporting procedures. Schools are required to maintain accurate daily attendance records.
Cases of recurring or concerning absenteeism must be reported to the Inspectorate. This allows the latter to follow trends, assess compliance with rules and determine whether intervention is necessary.
However, monetary penalties may only be imposed once appropriately certified Extraordinary Police Officer BavPol personnel are available to carry out this function in accordance with the law, explained the minister. Some would argue this makes the Compulsory Education Ordinance a so-called “Paper –“ or even “Toothless Tiger.”
But when patterns of absenteeism are identified, the Inspectorate engages with schools and, where appropriate, parents or guardians as well as other relevant agencies to facilitate interventions aimed at returning pupils to regular attendance. The primary objective should indeed remain is to safeguard every child’s right to education and promote school participation.
One must keep in mind too that financial issues might play a role, including costs related to student transportation, textbooks, uniforms etcetera. A fine under those circumstances could actually make things worse.
Nevertheless, in extreme cases having a last-remedy option to make violators feel it in their wallets could also be helpful as deterrent. ECYS is encouraged to pursue BavPol training, as other ministries have done recently for similar enforcement reasons.
At the end of the day, classrooms are where kids belong.
