CEBM: all schools open, maintenance ongoing

By Lara Pickford-Gordon

[email protected]

Routine maintenance is ongoing at some Catholic primary schools but all 118 schools under the Catholic Education Board of Management (CEBM) reopened “successfully” with “no major disruptions reported”.

Fr David Khan, the Archdiocese Vicar for Education and Chief Executive Officer of the CEBM shared this update on Monday, September 7, responding to questions from The Catholic News on the start of the 2026 – 2027 academic year.

Fr Khan stated, “While some routine maintenance works remain outstanding at a number of schools, these works are being addressed and will not interfere with the normal operation of the schools or the delivery of education. The necessary works will continue to be undertaken while schools remain fully operational.” He explained routine works at approximately 43 schools included washing and disinfecting school compounds, painting, minor plumbing and changing light bulbs.

Fr Khan reported that new copper tubing must be installed in four air conditioning units at St Gabriel’s Girls RC, San Fernando, after thieves stole the tubing during the holidays. The school reported the theft to the police, and the Ministry of Works is assisting with repairs.

He informed of a boost to the teaching staff at RC schools with 33 new teachers entering primary schools this term. Fr Khan said they will give additional support to schools and “contribute to maintaining the quality of teaching and learning across the system.”

He disclosed that transfers affected administrative leadership at schools in Siparia, Pt Fortin and La Brea and as a result, teachers from other schools were assigned as replacements to perform the duties of principal. “These arrangements are intended to ensure that there is continued leadership, accountability, and effective administration at these schools as the new academic year gets underway,” Fr Khan said.

Response to PM’s comments on school discipline

Fr Khan was asked to share his views on statements made by Prime Minister Kamla Pesad-Bissessar on the opening of the school term. One comment to educators from the Prime Minister which captured attention was: “I strongly urge you to adopt a zero-tolerance policy to disrespectful and misbehaved students and parents. Don’t stress out yourselves trying to help persons who don’t want to be helped. If students refuse to behave properly and parents are ignoring your concerns, send them straight home and let them and their parents battle it out in their house.”

Fr Khan said her call for greater discipline, respect and personal responsibility among students is timely and welcomed as the new academic year begins. He elaborated: “schools must provide safe, orderly and respectful environments where teachers can teach, and students can learn without abuse, intimidation, or persistent disruption.”

He added that parents must take responsibility for their children’s behaviour, education, and work closely with schools. On disciplinary action against students, he stated that it must always be within the law and established education policies and procedures.

Discipline is not only about punishment. Fr Khan said it is also about helping young people develop respect, responsibility, good character, and a serious commitment to education.

He maintained that when government, teachers, parents, and students fulfil their responsibilities an environment is created for every child to learn, grow and succeed.