The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : 'U.S. norms for schools can be emulated here'

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, Jul 24, 2004

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

'U.S. norms for schools can be emulated here'

By G. Srinivasan

THANJAVUR, JULY 23. "There are some good guidelines which we can take from the United States of America in running schools," says Subramanyam Kumar, a Tanjorean who is working in an investment bank at Princeton, New Jersey.

"I was appalled at the fire in the Kumbakonam school in which 90 children perished. It is unbelievable that schools remain death traps," said Mr. Kumar, who is on a visit here.

Dual system

There are two systems of schooling in the U.S. — township or public schools run by the township administration aided by the State Government and Federal Government and private schools. The primary source of income for township schools is taxpayers' money. Sixty per cent of the township income goes to schools in the U.S.

All township schools should provide buses and a school should be located within 2-3 miles from the home. "They don't want children to lose time and tire out in travel."

Traffic laws

Traffic laws are respected strictly for the benefit of school children. Whenever a bus enters the school zone, traffic is blocked on either side of the road to help the bus drop the children safely.

"Most of the drivers are women in the age group of 20. This is to prevent aggressive men as drivers and provide compassionate drivers to children."

Periodic fire drills are given to children and teachers. "Fire alarm will be sounded and children will be trained to move in an orderly manner to the fire exits which are always lighted and easily spotted by children. The teacher is expected to take the attendance after the children gather outside to ensure that all are safe," said Mr. Kumar.

Training for teachers

Teachers are trained and made fire captains in schools to lead children at times of crisis. Zoning is another important aspect of the U.S. schooling system. Separate zones are earmarked for schools and one can start a school only in the spot identified in the zone. Separate traffic regulations are imposed in the zone. "Even a private school has to be started in the zone."

All laws that apply to public schools are followed for private ones also. "Though India cannot be compared with the U.S. and the socio-economic conditions are different, some guidelines are universal and can be taken as examples," said Mr. Kumar.

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