The Task Force on School Violence, which I chaired, has submitted its report to the Ministry. Our report attempts to outline the general level of violence and other deterrents that are impacting learning at the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School. Most importantly, the report offers a series of recommendations for creating a safer and more productive learning environment.

Peter Wolinsky

The Minister of Social Development recently said that the report would be made available to the public in due time.
One comment that our group heard many times during our investigation is that the apparent rise in youth violence is due to larger societal factors that go well beyond schooling. During our interviews with teachers, parents, administrators, and students, we heard references to the increasing availability and use of drugs, lack of parent supervision, the increasing influence of gangs, and lack of parenting skills. These are serious societal issues, and ones that can only be solved with a concerted national effort. As I have mentioned before in this column, my expertise lies in the domains of education, behavior, and the psychological needs of children. I believe that the most immediate and effective way forward is to focus whatever time, effort and funding are necessary to make the schools in Anguilla a place where all students experience success. Here is why I believe an effort to improve the quality of children’s lives and reduce incidents of violence in the community needs to start with the schools:

1. All students are required to attend. Therefore, we have a system in place in which we can work with and reach out to children and parents.

2. We can begin to more effectively identify children, at an early age, who are exhibiting learning or behavior problems.

3. Schools can be a safe environment in which every adult models effective behaviors such as respect, honor, courage, and responsibility. This can go a long way toward helping children who are lacking in good role models outside of school.

4. School officials can direct parents to other necessary and helpful services, such as social services, counseling, family interventions.
5. Quality education improves the lives and the outcomes for all Anguillians.

6. Schools can and should be beacons that bring communities together to help solve problems.

The Task Force report highlights some significant difficulties in Anguilla’s schools. It recognizes that there are many wonderful people and programs in place, but more must be done. The main point of the report is this: Efforts to reduce violence and improve the overall learning environment at ALHCS will not only benefit the school, but can also help to address a variety of broader social concerns. Please get involved and offer your support.

Peter Wolinsky is the Educational Psychologist. He works for the Education Department of Anguilla. His email address is Peter.Wolinsky@Gov.AI.

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