Dear Parents,
Due to some of the comments made in Facebook, we have decided to clarify these
issues regarding the recommencing of school.
1. We were supposed to open the 2014-2015 second term, on January the18th 2015.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, it was only possible to give classes on
Fridays and Saturdays. In addition, we
have adjusted the schedule in a way that all the major subjects were given
priority. However two days of classes a week is still not sufficient to cover
the yearly syllabus on time.
2. In order to maintain the syllabus, we provided an alternative solution in
the form of study packs. This enabled the students to continue learning at home
and simultaneously keeping up to date with the academic program. However this
is naturally not covering all the areas involved in teaching.
3. Furthermore, in an attempt to recover missed classes, Gulshan Junior Section
provided an assisting educational outreach program. ITHS teachers travelled to
different areas of Dhaka and provided classes to students who lived near one
another. Despite this, it was not possible for us to reach every student and
teach all the major subjects as required.
4. ITHS always appreciates the contribution from parents in educational
matters. On February the 7th 2015, Gulshan Branch held a meeting, which parents
were invited to. The purpose of the meeting was to allow the parents to express
their views concerning the study packs, the educational outreach program and
any alternative approaches towards the continuation of educating students. We
would like to thank both parents who could and could not attend. Your feedback
was greatly appreciated and we encourage your participation in the future. For
example, ITHS Gulshan Junior Section decided to discontinue the educational outreach
program based on the feedback received during the meeting on February the 7th
2015. This simply indicates how important our parent’s views are.
5. Similarly, other branches of ITHS obtained parents feedback through various
methods. Recently, the school conducted a survey as to whether students should
resume classes. The survey involved parents from 8 different branches of ITHS
and 70 % of those who participated responded YES to resuming classes. ITHS
Management would like to thank them for their contributions. ITHS equally
values everyone’s opinion and tries to produce the best possible solution to
their needs.
6. Today, on the 25th of February 2015, 72% of preschool and junior students
attended classes, as well as 75% of senior students (boys & girls). The
number of students attending closely matches the feedback from the survey. This
also reflects the majority of the parents’ concerns regarding the continuation
of classes.
7. For those students who are unable to attend, we are still concerned about
their education and have made plans to give additional classes so that students
can catch up. Please be aware that the study packs will still be issued to all
students regardless of attendance.
8. Some of the parents argued that other English medium schools are open
despite the current situation and requested that the ITHS also resumes classes.
With the exams coming closer and students attending other schools, ITHS was
urged to take necessary steps in order to guarantee successful exam results and
prevent falling behind.
9. We understand for those students who are unable to attend there might be an
unfair disadvantage. However, since the exams are internationally conducted,
rescheduling the exam dates is not possible. ITHS has a long standing reputation
for high achievers and competition exists not only within the classroom but on
an international level.
10. We had the decision for resuming the classes after careful evaluation of
the surveys by the Head of Sections. The decision to resume classes is not by
any means political.
11. ITHS collected the survey results collectively from all 8 branches and the
decision made was not aimed at offending anyone.
12. The survey involved all 8 units at ITHS. We, here as ITHS act as one single
unit. Decision to resume classes made unanimously.
13. Our intention in resuming classes is in no way at all aimed at offending
any of the parents. We regret if we caused any misunderstanding. Please feel
free to contact us with any concerns.
14. We highly respect the parents of differing views and understanding, as well
as all the values of Bangladesh.
Thanking You,