A West Clare Principal claims the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the long standing issues in the provision of primary education.
It comes as schools across the country are re-opening on a phased basis from today, after an almost six month absence.
Around one million children across the country will be returning to school this week and next, after an almost six month absence.
Children will find themselves in a much different environment than in March, with social distancing measures now in place.
Unions have expressed concern, however, that teachers with serious illnesses are being put at risk.
The ASTI has written to the Health Minister for clarifications on high-risk teachers working from home after receiving a surge in queries from worried members.
President, Ann Piggott, says there are teachers with health issues who can’t be expected to be in a classroom:
Health officials says a child shouldn’t go to school if they have a temperature or cough, but a student with the odd sniffle and sneezing can attend.
Trish Lehane, whose daughters attend Cratloe National School, is looking forward to sending them back.
She believes parents have to trust that those in charge won’t put their children in harm’s way.
St Joseph’s National School, Miltown Malbay is opening on Friday next.
The West Clare Principal says it’s vital from both an educational and social point of view that schools re-open and that while there’s a certain amount of apprehension about returning, there’s also an air of hope.
But Aidan Looney says the pandemic highlights the long-standing issues in primary education.
