Beterverwagting Secondary being closely monitored 
BETERVERWAGTING Secondary School, on East Coast of Demerara, is under close monitoring following reports of bullying and drug abuse.Although the teachers have decided to look closer into the allegations and monitor the students, they are implementing stricter disciplinary measures.
This is according to Deputy Headmistress, Ms. Sandra Henry who, in a recent telephone interview with the Guyana Chronicle, stated that the teachers were not aware of such occurrences and problems.
As such, for this “new term,” however, matters will be taken seriously as the safety of students in the school is a priority, she asserted.
Henry said meetings are to be held with other teachers to elaborate on the issues and students who are victims should report the instant these things happen.
Approximately three weeks ago, parents of children attending the school alleged that students are being plagued by bullyism and drug abuse.
Consequently, parents, being fearful for their children’s welfare, contacted this newspaper through which to seek urgent ministerial intervention.
They even considered removing their children from the school after the violence increased to a level where students were physically hurt and one, who had a black and blue abdomen, had to seek medical treatment.
Carrying knives
It was also reported that some students were carrying knives and other weapons in their pockets while in school.
An official of the Regional Education Office said school violence has been on the increase and it is unfair to expose innocent children to this fate.
He said meetings will be held with the Parent/Teachers Association (PTA) to discuss the situation.
He said that, with regards to persons smoking narcotics in the school and selling the drug to students, that should have been curbed from the inception, had the first hint of smokers been given the teachers, who should have acted accordingly and investigated instead of waiting until the present stage.
A welfare officer had visited the school where she interacted with children and those who fell victim to bullys were counselled while the older students involved in drug abuse were spoken to and cautioned.
A source indicated, though, that the school is being closely monitored by the Regional Education Office as well as the ministry, which has been sending representatives to check on students’ well-being.