Our loss of trust and confidence in GEMS has actually been accumulating over the years. The recent issue of class sizes has just bought it all to a head. One would think that the best way to restore trust is to stop lying, show your cards and then move forward with an honest game. But this recent letter from JPS and GEMS head office further adds fuel to the fire.

Why do they have to undermine and belittle our concerns by stating how they understand our concerns of class sizes rising from 25 to 26. (translated: what's all the fuss about). Come on GEMS - another insult to us parents!!! Why talk averages - the point is GEMS put in place a plan to increase numbers to 29 - that's the point - TAKE OWNERSHIP! And then GEMS dilute the issue by finishing the letter off with parking matters.

Furthermore - if we look just a few years away (2005) -class sizes were 22. Then miraculously we all return from the summer break to find they were increased to 25. No announcement made at all!! (More deception - more money grabbing)

And the bus issue - Do GEMS really think that us parents are so naive as to what they are up to........ Every single GEMS parent knows that their pathetic letter was another GEMS LIE. The disgust and distaste towards GEMS regarding the Bus price 100% increase was rampant. (And unfortunately Mel Curtis had to attach her name to the JPS bus letter). I do believe, like every other head of JPS - she is unfortunately just caught up in all the politics. Unwillingly the head teachers (Principles) become GEMS puppets.

Employing new TA's to the school is not going to help our children's education. Most of the time the TA's (and teachers) have to devote a huge amount of time to making the school look 'impressive'. Yes - it's all about impressing us parents and the multitude of visitors. I certainly would rather have mediocre display boards, solely with children's work and more emphasis put into their learning - and I'm sure this is exactly what the teachers and TA's want. (What are GEMS intentions....)