Bell rings for Alma Parris

ALMA PARRIS MEMORIAL SECONDARY SCHOOL, which has catered to 11-Plus low-achievers since 1995, will hold its final classes next week when the term ends, it was reported yesterday.

No official announcement has been made by the Ministry of Education but president of the Barbados Union of Teachers, Pedro Shepherd, said teachers at the St Peter school had been informed that it would be closed formally on September 1.

He cited low morale and attendance among reasons for the closure of the school, which in recent years has experienced bitter disputes between teaching staff and the principal Valdez Francis.

Francis was guarded yesterday about the future of Alma Parris, which was opened in Speightstown in 1995 to offer an alternative curriculum for students gaining 30 marks or under in the 11-Plus exam. (SB)

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