School mergers unpopular with parents: Poll

Of the total, 60.09 per cent of parents said students, teachers and parents would be adversely affected by the plan. For example, some students would be travelling further to schools, and others might have problems adjusting to new students, new schools and ties to their communities. Another 22 per cent said they were not sure if they agreed or disagreed with the plan because it had both disadvantages and drawbacks; while 17 per cent said they agreed with mergers because the ministry could manage schools more easily, and teachers could take better care of students. The poll was conducted among 1,292 parents from May 8-11.

Asked about what worried them most in the coming school semester, 38 per cent of parents said higher expenses for tuition fees, school uniforms, and equipment; and 24 per cent said they were concerned about their children’s safety in travelling to school; 21 per cent were worried about their children adjusting to new classes.

On teachers, 37 per cent of parents said they wanted them to provide knowledge to students to the best of their ability and focus on instilling ethics and morality; 23 per cent said they wanted teachers to give as much time as possible to students; and 20 per cent looked to teachers to be strict with students.

Asked what they wanted to tell the Education Ministry: 41 per cent said they wanted improved Thai education, 39 per cent wanted good curriculums and teaching with high standards, 10 per cent said providing equal educational opportunity for students.