The August Discussions Extended
2018-08-30
Arayik Harutyunyan, Minister of Education and Science, held negotiations with the principals of High Schools, Private School and Special Needs Schools of Yerevan in light of the August consultations. Referring to the preparatory work for the new 2018-2019 academic year, the Minister noted that there was no change in the curriculum this year, taking into account time restraints for content changes. But now the Ministry of Education and Science is actively engaged in a number of procedures and subject matter criteria. According to the Minister, the order of class design is awaiting government approval, which defines the average and maximum density of pupils. Beginning next academic year, changes are intended for financing schools. The new financial program will not only improve the status of those schools that have 300 students, but the number of classes in each school as well.
Arayik Harutyunyan informed that the certification procedures of Principals has already been changed, and presently the procedure of Principals’ election and appointment was being discussed. In the case of a vacancy in a position of a Principal’s office, it is suggested that the vice Principal take office responsibilities until the said vacancy is filled. Under review will also be the attestation system of teachers. “Teacher” structure will be introduced, which involves a voluntary professional certification and will result 50% wage increase. The Minister of Education and Science confirmed that all these changes were made because of the dissatisfaction within public and professional structures. Arayik Harutyunyan pointed out that one of the most important issues in the upcoming years was the matter of inclusiveness. "Those communities that had the experience of inclusive education have a high standard values and we have a problem to become such a society," said the Minister of Education and Science.
The Minister once again stressed that imposing uniforms to children is unacceptable. "I'm not against black and white uniforms, I'm against the obligatory nature of it. If parent council of any school decides to have such a uniform, I do not see a problem. It's also unacceptable for me to think that the free style uniforms will have a negative impact on discipline. Even during the Soviet era, when all were wearing the same uniform, there were disciplined and undisciplined students, it has nothing to do with uniforms, "said the Minister. Referring to the financing of high schools, the Minister noted that the financial storage at the beginning of the year would be supplemented so that the normal functioning of the schools would not be interrupted. During the consultation the Minister answered the questions of the Principals and added that regular meetings with them will be periodic.
