UPDATE: DGS students protest outside parliament

DGS students protesting in Roseau this morning

Fourth and fifth form students of the Dominica Grammar School staged an impromptu noisy protest outside the country’s parliament, just before the proceedings of the House got underway on Thursday morning.

Carrying placards, the students said they wanted to let the country’s parliamentarians know about the existing situation at their school.

“A student hit our teacher and now he’s very sick, teachers are not teaching because they want justice” one student told Dominica News Online.

She said “we need security in the school, and nobody’s talking, nobody’s saying anything, so teachers not teaching and we are not learning,” she said, emphasizing that mock exams were due in two weeks and students were worried about the situation.

The young protesters’ chants included a loud “justice for Winston”, the teacher injured by a student last Tuesday.

One of the students said justice meant ensuring that he got the money needed (EC$500) to have a scan performed because of the injuries he sustained in Tuesday’s attack.

“We need help, we are unsafe at school that’s why we are protesting,” another student told DNO.

The student crowd sang and chanted while on the front steps of the parliament building, until a handful of policemen shooed them away, urging them to go home.

Instead of dispersing however, the group headed  into downtown Roseau, keen on making their voices heard in other parts of the capital.

Earlier students were sent home after some began throwing chairs and water bags in the school.

“There is a riot in the school,” a student told a Dominica News Online. “Students are throwing chairs all over the place.”

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261 Comments

  1. 767
    February 17, 2016

    God guide them guide my two brothers my sister N my cousin that go to this skool …this skool was once the most discipline skool on the island….. take a look at it now… badness b is out of style why all this injuring teachers putting other students life N education at risk I pray for them tho

  2. Say It As It Is
    February 17, 2016

    The Government of Dominica, particularly the M.O.E. wants to pattern on the American system where students come to school with guns and kill their teachers and other students. In this country, students and parents have more rights than teachers. Teacher’s are just supposed to teach and not discipline students. In a few years time the Government will see what kind of citizens the country will have because children cannot be disciplined at school and some of them get no proper guidance at home. Who is speaking for the teachers? Who has their best interest at heart? As a past student of D.G.S. I must say the school’s standard has gone done since the Government has introduced Universal Education. Teacher’s hold strong, those who sit on their high horses and make demands will soon see the demise of their ridiculous decisions. I salute the teachers of Dca who have to work above and beyond in these situations for so LITTLE pay. WITHOUT TEACHERS, NO OTHER PROFESSION WOULD EXIST!!!

  3. Terror
    February 17, 2016

    Bring back simeon joesph

  4. February 19, 2012

    i do hering about de boy that injured the techer. :wink: :wink: :( :( :!:

  5. Anonymous
    February 19, 2012

    i not hering about de boy that injured the teacher. :) :) 8)

  6. ...................
    February 18, 2012

    ministry of education is not going to do one fat with that situation. Was in a similar sit a few years ago. Wrote a report to the minister and nothing was done. Lawless behavior is all that exists at these schools now. Down with universal ed. Forcing students into an “education system” which is obviously not in THEIR PERSONAL INTEREST only brews chaos. REMEMBER NOT ALL STUDENTS ARE ACADEMICALLY INCLINED. Stop blinding society with figures!!!!!!!! It is time for a reality check Dominicans!

  7. Justice and Truth
    February 17, 2012

    I have not heard a thing about the student who injured the teacher. How old is he? What happened to him? Was he arrested, suspended or expelled? I do think readers/users should be told what happened to him.

  8. swag
    February 17, 2012

    bring back simeon joseph and mr wilson lets wa will happen

  9. Anonymous
    February 17, 2012

    bring back simeon joseph aka s.dot to clamp their style

    • ole skool
      February 17, 2016

      hahahahah fada that the real code….. BRING BACK S.DOT

  10. ....................
    February 17, 2012

    I witnessed a fight recently at one of the High Schools, and so much “COOL WOSH”,i had to go and hide in the shools toilet we.
    All you believe the life of some teachers are easy at their workplace! And most of the fights involve those who can hardly write their names.

  11. (.) (.)
    February 17, 2012

    SOLUTION to the existing problem at DGS…Do a clean sweep. EXPEL ALL THE BAD ONES from Forms 1 to 5. They want to be bad and come disrupt the entire school. Show them what bad is and send them home. If they retaliate put them in jail along with their parents and whom ever wants to join. It’s time authorites take action.

    • tiny
      February 17, 2012

      is now you asking for a real riot

  12. VERNEL
    February 17, 2012

    Hummm, if something ins’t done soon, them children will bring guns to school and start shooting children and teachers.

  13. NY, NY 10025
    February 17, 2012

    What a disgrace!

  14. Law and order
    February 16, 2012

    Sorry but the police should not have intervened, this was not political, it was about safety of teachers.The education minister should have met with a delegation from the student body to discuss the matter in hand. Who are the moron in charge of the country.

  15. sBlaze
    February 16, 2012

    Aye see my cuz..shersher stand up for your safety education and rights cuz! You guys are showing how true young adults should be taking charge at manners which are jeopardizing your education and life. If this how the majority of the students truly feel by taking a stand for that I think I’m at ease with the future generations. Don’t let a few bad apples take advantage and tarnish your image and education. Take charge. BLESSUP!

  16. pinnez
    February 16, 2012

    you see the consequences that the grammar school students have to face for only one student who disrespected a teacher. now they are suffering. teachers should be one of the most appreciated profession because the teachers are who the ones who taught all the doctors, lawyers, the journalist, nurses, professors etc and all the other individuals who holds a profession today. cases like these the teachers are’nt the ones to be blame. however i condemn these immoral behaviours

  17. hmmm
    February 16, 2012

    y did the teacher get knocked ?

  18. Concern
    February 16, 2012

    Gone are the days of discipline at DGS. Gone are the days of the very good principals and their team of teachers. With principals like Mr. Hubert Charles walking touring the school corridor with a cane in his hand, Principal like Mr. Lokhart that would shout you by name form the ground floor to the top…that is how much he knew his students and by the time Mr. Felix Wilson come and gone that was it. A school I loved and proud to talk about is that what it got to…student fighting teacher. Just sad so sad

  19. Anon.
    February 16, 2012

    Way to DGS students if Ministry of Education won’t take the helm to ensure you get a good education force their hands. You are the ones who can do this not the teachers like myself who are never taken seriously.

  20. February 16, 2012

    I PRAY FOR U SIR AND THE FUTURE OF D.G.S

  21. Candyaddict
    February 16, 2012

    but wait wen we stay there n do nothing they complain wen we stand up 4 what we believe is right n fight 4 our education they shoo us away what do they really want from us?? do they want us to just sit down n keep our mouths shut n take what we get they are suppose 2 be preparing us for the “real world” how do they expect us to do tht if they keep shutting us down

  22. citizen
    February 16, 2012

    oh my.. children hitting teacher because the techer say u disrupting the class. whats is that for me.. reading the comment dominicans really bias.. i really want to know what the official can do about this situation? skerrit is trying his best to assist with the educating everyone..i my time not everyone tha was going to high school. u had to pass common entrance exams, now everybody going to high school and that they doing.u getting a chance to make something of urself u fooling around and want to be fighting with the teacher.. why dont they expel these children that kepp misbehaving, that means they dont want to learn. what they doing in the class if they dont want to learn.. no one needs to be blamed for this but the student and the parents.. if i was a teacher i would not teach class that am not safe in..
    am sorry for the students that have exams but they need to blame their classmates and not the govt.the parents need to talk to their children..thats the only way this is going to be resolved..
    i dont know about u uys but i wont learn if i know that there are police outside my classroom or in the classroom.. this will cause distraction for the childrenn.. the only solution is expel the children and parent start raising all u children the right way.. all u are the main persons responsible..u guys that create these monsters in society..at this age they behave like that, when they get older what they will do to people who talk to them.. huh.

  23. Jay
    February 16, 2012

    We need to ask ourselves why our children are fighting with teachers in our high schools. First of all there are underlying issues that cause children go that far. We need to have early intervention put in place for our young people before they reach the age of high school or even in our elementary schools. Looking at all the problems with our children lately one can say that some of the problems can be attribute to poor parenting, environment, or even chemical imbalance with our children. Without help some of these children cannot help with the situation that they are involved in. Therefore, I believe that the education department should invest in school psychologist, counselors, early intervention personnel (who can work with children who are having difficulty at school from an early age), and special education teachers who are trained in working with behavior and emotional disorder students. With the help of these specialists there would be less chaos in our high schools & also our elementary school. Another thing was Universal Education implemented in correctly. For instance one size does not fit all, since everyone learn differently. Steps should have been put in place for students who are not on par with their peers to help them get on par with their peers. Some of the children in our schools can be frustrated because they may have learning issues (or they might not be able to keep up with their peers in the high school, that could lead them to act out) that are not dealt with. Having these issues not dealt with could be one reason we have all these chaos in of schools.

  24. Dom
    February 16, 2012

    Expel the violent student, and take the matter to court where he should be charged

  25. Is That So!?
    February 16, 2012

    Students protesting for Their Safety at school when they are the ones causing the problems..It wasn’t an outsider who came to the school and committed the crime.So what they want the GOVT.to do? Lots of those comments here are political..Put a police in every classroom you will hear them..Parents take control of your kids..The teacher should SUE the parents of that school child that injured him(the teacher).

  26. dominica
    February 16, 2012

    satan on the loose

  27. February 16, 2012

    :-? hmmmmmm to day was my day, i was part of the protesting we need dominica to hear was is happen in our skool.d.g.s is not a bad skool is the those kawats in the skool that need to be kick out completely. i feel deeply sorry my teacher hope he recover well :(

  28. En Ba La
    February 16, 2012

    Who led the Dominica Grammar School march down to the Government Headquarters in 80s? The protest action against the factory next door.

  29. DGS STUDENT
    February 16, 2012

    am a student and i have seen a lot of fights with teachers and students,students and students.last year a student cuff a teacher in his eyes just because he said do not disrupt the class,he started fighting with the teacher.then i saw another one with another teacher ,now this one with prev ones before but one now and last year were the worst i have seen.HELP US PLEASE AM NOT FEELING SAFE.EVEN DRUGS ARE AT THE SCHOOL OH BOY HELP I CANT SAY BECAUSE I WILL GET BEAT UP.

    • .
      February 16, 2012

      More male teachers will leave the service,and more chaos!

    • Justice and Truth
      February 16, 2012

      @ DGS Student

      This is another shocking one. I cannot believe that this is occurring at DGS. Some of them do not go to school to learn but to fight. They are on a war path.

  30. zuma
    February 16, 2012

    My understanding from this is a noticeable big cry for public attention both from the students and the teachers.

    However i believe this should be handled at the premises of the DGS and not on the streets. If the situation could not be solved within DGS THEN THE MATTER should be taken to the authorities responsible for education/ TEACHER/STUDENTS AFFAIRS . the students should REMAIN IN THIER CLASSROOMS WITH THIER TEACHERS AND HAVE SOMEONE OF SOLID REPUTE TO HANDLE THESE issues of such nature. THE STUDENTS SHOULD HAVE CONFIDENCE IN SOMEONE HANDLING THIS MESS AND SHOULD expect that this miserable situation is solved. I am appalled really at this level of education/ behavoir of students in Dominica.

  31. t
    February 16, 2012

    my students i am proud of u. stand up for whats right. we taking back our school.we getting rid of those elements there. next level.

  32. concern
    February 16, 2012

    the government does not care about the children nor the school all they care about is who pocket that getting fatter. who have the biggest house and the better looking cars. STOP look around the children of the country needs you MR. PRIME MINISTER

  33. NECS
    February 16, 2012

    as a teacher myself i can relate to mr.winston..just this week in trying to stop a fight at my school i hurt my leg and had to come to school with the injured leg for days and nobody said nothing..

  34. OH MY G!!!!!!
    February 16, 2012

    i am extremely proud of those students. we adults can learn a very important lesson from this.

  35. ok
    February 16, 2012

    every thing happens for a reason!!!
    and there must be a good reason behind all this
    which is the injured teacher mr winston (my class teacher) we dgs students dont need your negativity
    if u have nothing good to say about our school i think you should keep your poubelle close… thank you

  36. Parents
    February 16, 2012

    What began as not a normal school day at the Isaiah Thomas Secondary School this morning turned into chaos when students began screaming and running aimlessly.

    Some of the students tried to get a glance of the action while others, in fear, just wanted to be out of the school’s compound.

    It is alleged that three female students, each from forms two, three and four, started ‘acting up’ by turning over desks, fighting with teachers and turning their classes into rooms of confusion.

    An alleged eyewitness saw one female student running down the main road to the school screaming. She was rescued by another young lady, and the two fell on top one another on the ground screaming. They then got up and continued down the street screaming as teachers and other students attempted to calm the two.

    Another young lady who was being prayed for after violently attacking a teacher knelt calmly on the ground then suddenly attacked the teacher who was praying for her and other students close by. She also threw a chair at a male student.

    Teachers were in panic at the sporadic violent outbursts of these students and one could note the fear and confusion on the faces of the students as some fled the scene in disbelief muttering “demonic possession”.

  37. sexyness
    February 16, 2012

    “JUSTICE FOR WINSTON!!!” wii fightin 4 justice.

  38. Rule
    February 16, 2012

    Where is the minister of Education?? He is being vocal about other issues not related to education, and he is absent in this regard!

  39. well
    February 16, 2012

    Well Done DGS…Im extremly proud of you all..the only thing you all should have gone to the parliment in a massive gathering say 600 students impact would be good too..

    that would cause the speaker to be impartial, she is getting terrible..O Boy sorry for the opposition as she is cruel!

  40. February 16, 2012

    WHATS WITH ALL THE MILITARY PERSONNEL?
    DO THE STUDENTS HAVE GRENADES OR GUNS OR SOMETHING?

    • Clueless
      February 16, 2012

      There are procedures that must be followed.

    • zuma
      February 16, 2012

      U NEVER KNOW 8)

  41. ?????
    February 16, 2012

    All the government run secondary schools are in chaos (NO EXCEPTION)..Students curse and swear infront of principal.Many are on drugs,some peddle it. Some graduate fifth form and cannot read/write. the worst is some come to school, only to disrupt, so the good students (there are many) are suffering because of the bad apples. THIS IS THE PRODUCT OF U.S.E

    • CONCERNED
      February 16, 2012

      Change that to say “ALL” the Secondary Schools.

    • February 16, 2012

      I agree with your concern. However, I do not think the problem with crimes and violence in the schools is the cause of universal secondary education. On the contrary, U.S.E offers opportunity to all. What we should do is pressure our policy makers to review the Education Act. Violent secondary school students who pose a danger to students and teachers/staff should be extracted from the general school population. There should be a juvenile detention facility to deal with such a chronic anti-social behavior.

    • XXXX
      February 16, 2012

      You hit the nail right on the head. So true.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 16, 2012

      ????

      This situation is so sad, students being disobdient and out of control. I wished that I could do something about it but I am too far away. Is there anyone who could give them a lecture on good behaviour and respect for the teachers?

  42. ,,,,,,,,,,
    February 16, 2012

    As a teacher i will stop interfering in fights at school.I suspect i will get caught up in the exchanges anytime, and i will be left on my own like this friend of mine.

    • lol
      February 16, 2012

      you should stop sharing fights wi…let those “bad boys” do away with each other

  43. olive oil
    February 16, 2012

    skerrit. When mister was teaching college he use to talk about what he would do for education and dominican children. Everyday you enter mister class is some more of his. See today he’s not the one enhancing dominican education. He has infact thrown it in the gutter with his trash policies.

    • It's Me
      February 16, 2012

      Olive Oil, would you care to explain? For those of us who are blind as to how Mister Skerrit has thrown education in the gutter with his trash policies, kindly explain

  44. olive oil
    February 16, 2012

    The absenc e of their parents tells alot about what’s wrong witht these kids. Why aren’t the parents there protesting? This is al. drama. Dominica is a country of enablers. These children today can’t be compared with those of the 80’s and 90’s. Dominica is going to be so sad to be in 10 years from now.. Absolutely pathetic government and adults. Its a never ending cycle.

  45. Typical
    February 16, 2012

    Typical what you call Dominica’s lack of ability to tackle and deal with issues head on..

    where is this island heading too..
    why do so cal Pro afraid of being a Pro.
    why do they get paid for..

    im of the view that majority of Pro folks in Dominica are hurting the upper levels of this island, they have a standoff approach and lack their mental toughness to call a spade..

    this is a classic example of a laided back sloggish approach..nothing new to the Dominica market..but its shows up a weakness at our learning institutions as state college and UWI..

    Cant see how folks who are in authority with so call degress cant be firm…

    i think Dominica is a island where Proffessionalism is completed exterminated!

    Again name me one institution in Dominica which is above board and can clearly testify to a higher level of balance and and standards..

    im looking in the dark, what i see in the light at the end is a Pit Toilet!

  46. February 16, 2012

    i’m so proud of those students who stand in solidarity with the teachers…. D.G.S 4 LIFE… we lead and the others follow… don’t be suprised if C.H.S stage there own… hhmm we hearing things wii

    • ALas
      February 16, 2012

      Is that what you want? Stop being silly!

    • February 16, 2012

      YEAH! IDIOT

    • February 16, 2012

      ummmmmmmmmm, C.H.S is a private school supported by the Catholic church, and the students have no reason to protest or b disruptive because there its girls only. So rethink that statement

  47. Arab
    February 16, 2012

    I stand by you DGS students. If you were sent home for protesting then you’ll need target the principal next.

  48. yes
    February 16, 2012

    change the principal. simple

  49. Time
    February 16, 2012

    will always advocate that once a country does not uphold High Standards across the board it will continue to be in termoil and lower graded island..as is reflect presently in Dominica.

    Its starts or kicks off with vision and direction which sadly lacks in Dominica..

    so folks need to be focus that you have a stern and focus approach towards sectors in dominica and standards are upheld and dominica could be class in the ranks of Barbados…
    but sadly we ranked around Haiti because Dominicans period allow medicorcy at all levels..

    they adore this present regime with their handout policy and refuse to vent disguse at that low minded vibes…

    the longer this regime stays in Power Crime and Poverty will reach alarming levels…

    The peace committee is extremly weak and talk way too much..why cant they bring both ruling goverment and opposition groups and trash out certain basic issues..why tell me why, im extremly disappointed by Mr. Randy Rodney he is a chatter box not a action person alongside his other folks on that group…

    In a society where folks are clever and see down the road they bite the bullet and do the hard moves..im refusing to listen to his program on friday on Q95 thought he meant well but its just a dancing ring around the fire, thats all he does nothing to show of progress..TALK TALK TALK!

    DGS students im in fully surport of their actions, seems like it will take their generation to make that radical move to level the playing fields of its curses that is in the Dominican Society…congrats students on bringing the focus to the streets…shows you are DGS Students and not surpress by a yes yes culture of being weak!

    Hats off to you all…

  50. Hally
    February 16, 2012

    I was a part of this protest and we have to fight for wats rite we are 5 formers and we need to keen we are the future of tomorrow so :( :(

  51. big-s
    February 16, 2012

    as that happen every body branding us as juvenile delinquency

  52. Former Educator in D
    February 16, 2012

    Where is the JSP Program that the CEO was involved in with Shirly Gordon of JA . Lord help DA

  53. DEJAVU
    February 16, 2012

    Someone asked why everything in Dominica is politics on this blog, saddly this is how Dominicans socialize. Health, civil liberties, sex,working conditions, carnival, religion etc etc is wrapped around politics. A woman told me is UWP that set them kids up to embarass the PM! I was stunned. What is even more alarming is that you have people going on blogs and attacking others because they too percieve ones’ opinion about the kids being in the right to be anti-labour, not pro-education. PRICELESS!!!

    I saw the policemen outside Q and I think it was uncalled for. The kids apparently disbanded into small units and went to different locations, so for those of you who think the SSU was at parliament only, you are dead wrong. Stop speaking without having the facts. The SSU were at Q also. I suppose Marpin didn’t want their share so they chased them off, which if you ask me was a misguided opportunity. Children have rights too,and from what I was told because I took it upon myself to engage a few students, asking them to speak one at a time, as expected they were excited, they only want safety for all and for teachers to return to the classroom. The Ministy of Education handled this wrong. From last evening there should have been a public announcement on all media that there would be no school at DGS and only teachers to report. Once you allowed them to show up, it would be chaotic.

    Expulsion is not the answer. So much need revisiting in the Education sector. So many teachers are sitting in an office where as they could be better utilized in the classrooms. We need social workers in our schools.I pray for an intervention. GOD BLESS AND PROTECT DOMINICA, HER CHILDREN all those lucky to rest on her shores.

  54. time for truth
    February 16, 2012

    What is happening in Dominica today? Do these police officers understand their role in nation building, in a free country? Why did they shoo those students away from their house. This House of Parliament belongs to all of us and not just for politicians.
    These students went to make their voices heard in a peaceful protest and yet these policemen shooed them and asked them to go home.
    The police need to understand that these students were concerned about what happened to one of their teachers by a fellow student and the government is yet to make funds available or arrange to assist the teacher with a CT scan. That’s why these students are protesting! Officers, put yourselves in the place of this young teacher who was wounded on the job; wouldn’t you be happy to have these kids voice their support to you?
    Please understand that your job is more risky than that of the teacher and maybe one day, you might need us to stand with you like these students are standing with their teacher.

    • bug her
      February 16, 2012

      PROTEST CHILDREN, KEEP PROTESTING FOR UR VOICES TO BE HEARD, JUSTICE FOR ALL. AND EXAM IS JUST AWAY, REOPEN THE SCHOOL FOR THE STUDENTS TO LEARN MENNN
      THE OLDER FOLKS AFRAID TO PROTEST BUT THE CHILDREN IS PROTESTIN FOR SOMETING THAT THEY BELIEVE IN… THUMPS UP TO THEM

    • Rule
      February 16, 2012

      @ time for truth.
      I totally agree with your comments. The Government must realize that we are a free democracy and any effort to suppress free speech and demonstration, will be viewed as a sign of dictatorship.

    • February 16, 2012

      AMEN I AGREEEEEEE :-D
      WITH U HUNDRED PERCENT

  55. love of god
    February 16, 2012

    why shouls the children be sent home for protesting, all they need is for someone to do something, the childrens education is important to them. mork is jus around the corner they need to be in class. some hear out the children. let them have securities in the school so that the will feel safe. what of the police men they can be at the school. HELP THE CHILDREN TO GET THIER EDUATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • retired civil servan
      February 16, 2012

      where are the parents what are they doing to help their children put down the red shirt that is where education begins Teachers are being brutalised by children and parents. This is not the first incident Education come out

  56. Apple
    February 16, 2012

    Problems are not solved @ the top. Students/Parents are where you start.

    • retired civil servan
      February 16, 2012

      true say

  57. Apple
    February 16, 2012

    Sad sin is that the wrong outcome will come from this situation, shall seem as though the incident didn’t occur. The officials have 0 common sense to rectify ANY of the problems. DGS students are showing how to get results. What does “talking” @ “meetings” accomplish?

  58. jeremy
    February 16, 2012

    Teachers attacked no eduction being undertaken children feel at risk at their seat of learning, my God, The kids are right to voice the fears and support those teahers who are ignored,

    Perhaps Skerrit feels that the injured teacher should humble himself snd beg at the red clinic for help, these kids are tomorrows leaders do not dismiss them out of hand or you will come to regret it,

    When children take this measure then there is something radically amiss, Dominica this news is now everywhere what a stain on Dominica

  59. February 16, 2012

    sigh….. please skerro remove U.S.E… and please principles of D.G.S return to the days when students needed high pass to enter D.G.S… not trying to discriminate but children of gutter, tarish pit, fly worm or popoo city better have A+ to enter our prestigious school… the harvard… the oxford of Dominica… the catholic church is protecting C.H.S that’s why they can have bragging rights all now so… oh yeah it has always been a competition between C.H.S and D.G.S…. that what motivated many of us to whip it in CXC… many of our good teachers have gone to teach C.H.S for e.g Mrs/Ms Austrie who use to teach biology in D.G.S… i can recall good teachers like Ms Sewell and Ms Bruney (english teachers)…. how i hope them students not giving Ms James (food and nutrition) there stress… very caring teachers during my time… 1997 onwards…
    i’m not singling out no place but i remember some years ago the principle of G.S.S came on the news and complain how C.H.S and D.G.S taking all the good students since most would file for them first so they hard first time to choose… then they were left with the scraps with no choice to take all…. which were primarily from the neighbouring communities such as gutter, tarish pit etc etc… there have been many students from these areas who do extremely well… but then they were bright… the answer to that was to build a bigger D.G.S and flood all those undesirables to our Prestigious School…. eeeewwwwww how i can’t stand when i see C.H.S beating D.G.S… dem tings didn’t use to happen in my time… geniuses we use to produce… 10 ones etc like is clockwork… the gov’t for the sake of history has to protect D.G.S enrol requirements the same way the Catholic Church does it for C.H.S… vex if you all want but too many not worthy children entering D.G.S like it’s a fashion trend… disrespecting our tie… hardly was a d.g.s student seen without our tie… we wear that with pride and joy… we all know s.m.a hate their tag…. and g.s.s cant wait for 1 oclock to throw their tie in a bag….
    That can’t be the D.G.S many of us went to… even S.M.A for all it’s life has been trying to be like us… STUDENTS I SUPPORT YOU ALL CAUSE… NEXT TIME HAVE A LEADER RESPONSIBLE TO TALK TO MEDIA IN A MATURE WAY… REMEMBER YOU ALL ARE LEADERS THAT EVEN THE C.H.S STUDENTS WILL LOOK UP TO FOR BEING BRAVE AND DARING…

    • S.M.A pride
      February 16, 2012

      Strive to be like D.G.S ? im sorry but i disagree

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      When I went to grammar school from 1990 to 1995 a student couldn’t dare disrespect a teacher far less for striking a teacher.In my first year I got a detention for calling another student names and I swore never to be a repeat offender.mr Felix Wilson was a rock at that school and since he was removed the standard of the school started going down.I agree with you writer this U.S.E is messing up the standard of the schools .There needs to be a vocational program put in place to accommodate those kids that are not willing to learn.let them do technical subjects like wood craft etc…you can never get all kids to learn academically and they are messing up those that are willing to learn.you can put SSU at the schools and those little so called gangsters will still disrespect the teachers.The root of the problems is from there upbringing .

    • .............
      February 16, 2012

      So… no scholarships ever came from Gutter and Tarish Pit… I see.

      “vex if you all want but too many not worthy children entering D.G.S like it’s a fashion trend…” 8-O 8-O 8-O 8-O 8-O

      MOTS, you talking too much now you losing sense.

      • February 16, 2012

        and i quote ” there have been many students from these areas who do extremely well… but then they were bright…” so my friend stop taking what you want from my post and deal with the reality… in fact it has been my opinion long time that names like tarish pit, gutter, fly city etc need to change… it gives low morale to young minds

      • stupes
        February 16, 2012

        shut up ur stupid fool…. what u mean by tht is gutter n tarish oic kids tht start tha??
        it was point michelle students tht start it.. i doe know what gutter n tarish pit children have to do with that so best you just shut up

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      after reading da first 4 lines of ur comment i was already aggravated about the whole gutter and tarish statement…i mean…nt everybody from these places are uneducated or proletarians…i respect ur opinion..in view of the fact of maintaing the standards of the school…however… i believe in equal justice and service to everyone regardless of where they live….
      #just saying…im a past student of the DGS,prior 5th form class…. and received a gift for academic excellence in ma class..
      and guess what… I WAS THE ONLY STUDENT FROM GUTTER…..
      GUTTER…TARISH…FONDCOLE…YAMPIECE…SILVER LAKE… and many other communities deserve respect as well…..

    • February 16, 2012

      after reading da first 4 lines of ur comment i was already aggravated about the whole gutter and tarish statement…i mean…nt everybody from these places are uneducated or proletarians…i respect ur opinion..in view of the fact of maintaing the standards of the school…however… i believe in equal justice and service to everyone regardless of where they live….
      #just saying…im a past student of the DGS,prior 5th form class…. and received a gift for academic excellence in ma class..
      and guess what… I WAS THE ONLY STUDENT FROM GUTTER…..
      GUTTER…TARISH…FONDCOLE…YAMPIECE…SILVER LAKE… and many other communities deserve respect as well…..

    • ???????????
      February 16, 2012

      Hey MOTS please stop this discrimination now! there are respectavle people in those areas. You remind of a past DGS Headmaster who had something against the kids from Fond Cole, Gutter, Tarish etc. There are also bad children in the area or village you live. Come on deny it if you dare to. The problem is with parenting. We also have seen many students who come from good homes behave bad as well. MOTS you know that well. I am sure you can attest to that fact. Let us not make excuses but look at the root of the problem and many of those problems stems from the Home. The young boy in question is not from the area you mentioned though and I must let you know that Sir Winston is one of the products of the areas you tend to castigate and he is a model young man.

    • En Ba La
      February 16, 2012

      @ mouth of the south you said: “hardly was a d.g.s student seen without our tie”. I know DGS without ties this new uniform came into being in the 90’s with tie and at CONVENT HAVE ALWAYS HAD OUR tie.

      Besides I think discipline is just lacking overall – teachers cannot do it within the 5 – 6 hours spent with children. Universal Secondary Education should be structured differently in that EVERYONE IS NOT ACADEMICALLY INCLINED – this is what we fail to realize.

    • Past CHS student
      February 16, 2012

      Why are you putting CHS in your story ? Misery really likes company, and no CHS students will not follow the example of DGS and protest because “we’re our island’s pride” DGS can NEVER come close to the achievements of CHS. Leave our good name where it is please. All schools have their problems, you think COnvent haven’t got their own problems to deal with? Well just so you know we do, always have.

      Just so you know Convent has housed students from Gutter, Tarish Pit and “poopoo city” as you call it. And believe it or not these students excelled just like the students from Elmshall, Morne Daniel, Wallhouse and Canefield. Stop with the stereotyping and do no encourage the students to think what they are doing is right. There is a right and wrong way to do everything, while it is true they want their voices to be heard they should do it in a respectful manner.

      Convent High School students no mad to try a stunt like that. Moreover, you keep talking about the Catholic church protecting CHS; who doesn’t protect their own? These are STUDENTS going to learn something to make a future for themselves, not ADULTS so they need to act like STUDENTS.

      Hats off the teachers like Ms Audris Jn.Baptise, Ms Prentice, Ms Dublin, Ms Bannis, Mr Mc Auley and even Mrs Leevy and all the rest who kept us in line.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 16, 2012

      @ mouth of the south

      Your comment is enlightening and humorous as serious as it is. Some of it made me laugh. :) I do agree with you. Is it any wonder that this problem exists at DGS of all?
      I wonder if the Catholic Church is protecting CHS as you stated but that their discipline is different and that certain students are attracted to this reputable School.
      In my days, only certain children/students attended CHS. Also certain students attended DGS as The St. Mary’s Academy. Marks were high. I recall to enter high school from elementary school, we had to write an exam and pass it.
      If this may no longer be the case, is it any wonder that DGS has this problem? Children from certain ill-repute sections of DA are attending High School.
      I recall when the student had injured another student, someone made a similar comment on this Website that all types of children attend high schools. Times have indeed changed.
      This is why disciplinary action and measures are necessary and not additional security guards.
      Children need to be disciplined and yes, commencing with parents and students and then schools.

  60. Jacky Chan
    February 16, 2012

    The introduction of the universal secondary school system is the biggest blunder by the government of Dominica. A blunder that is not only being manifested now but is destined to cause great harm to the economy of Dominica. It is conventional wisdom that we are not all academically inclined . There are people who are gifted with the ability to become great farmers, mason, carpenters, seamstresses, taylors, joiners etc. Back in the late 80’s to 90’s we saw an explosion of these trades people making valuable contribution to our society and the economy. Why? Mainly due to the junior secondary program, the successful implementation of the technical college division.

    Today some of the kids who are not academically inclined are being forced into programs that they cannot cope with . Many of them fall out of school with nothing to do . What do we expect? Those who remain in the forced program become violent and resentful. I have seen first hand the effects of this universal. I know one kid in particular who dropped of and is now selling drugs. You give that kid a malfunctioning mechanical device and he will take it a part and restore that device into perfect working condition. He has the ability to figure out the intricacies of moving parts on motor , bikes, cars etc,. .Had this kid been allowed to thrive in the JSP program no telling how far he could have gone today he is a burden to society. The stories are countless as I have been paying attention to this universal secondary school program.

    The universal secondary school program is a failure and even more it is just some politicians wet dream that only the politicians enjoy.

    • ???????????
      February 16, 2012

      Stop looking for excuses. Each child is entitled to secondary education. It may be that strengths could be recognised early and sgrouping be done and subjects given to them according to their ability so probably the school should be structured in such a way.

      Our Father does not see nono of us as better than the other. We are each others keeper and we need to get to the root of the problem and assist where we can. Some of those kids are not bad but need ways to vent their frustration and ned attention. Some are very rude and indisciplined yes bur let us look around us and ask .. Are we the adults behaving in a manner that is being protrayed as Respectable and Responsible Adults. Do this children sometimes protray what they us as Adult. Yes .. Let us be responsible.

    • limo
      February 16, 2012

      My friend tell me it have a school in pottersville that offering an alternative program to USE . you much check them out . they next to gordon that making the costume.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 16, 2012

      @ Jacky Chan

      You are so correct. I feel the same way and have written about that.

  61. Nature's Market
    February 16, 2012

    It’s funny how we complain that nothing is being done and no one is standing up against wrong, and yet when these kids shed some much needed like on the situation at DGS they are being judged harshly for it. …no pleasing Dominicans.

  62. Dominican
    February 16, 2012

    People, READ the story and UNDERSTAND it before you comment.

    Some students were throwing chairs and causing a disturbance. The 4th and 5th form students are protesting and are asking for security. The protesters are ON THE SAME SIDE AS THE TEACHERS. They are standing up for what they think is right and in this case, they are right.

    These students want to be in school

    Read before you comment.

  63. The truth
    February 16, 2012

    this is something else eh…! I will dully support any student who is standing firm for the right to learn. if i know when they will be protesting next, i will be there chanting too. i remember when i went to school it was not only students do wrong things. teachers would send kids home if they got to school more than five minutes late. ridiculous, after mothers in dominica struggle so hard to get that little bus money. the schools need some good structuring. our education is second to none but we must continue to work with the students and listen to them to exceed all expectations.

  64. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    PAY ATTNTION people, all you see how quick Carette sent the army to scare the h@@$ out of the students? Pay close attention, study that well, put it in perspective!! All you ain’t see nothing yet. You are getting hat you bargined for. More to come.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 16, 2012

      @ Anonymous

      BEWARE! THE CHILDREN/STUDENTS ARE TAKING OVER! :lol: THEY ARE OUT OF CONTROL!
      Adults cannot seem to control them. Soon they will be running the country and people to be feared. :lol:
      The words of an old song came to my mind. One I have not remembered for years and years since childhood: “Oh Dear, What can the matter be, Oh Dear…?”

  65. tiny
    February 16, 2012

    people people people ….the problem is a very big and very complicated one……….there are students in high school who can’t read………are they dyslexic?…do they have ADHD? or other learning problems….do the kids even get tested for these disorders?….other kids who are failing may not have any learning disorders.. they may simply need some extra help.. some motivation ..someone to boost their self confidence………these are some of the children who disrupts class and making it difficult for other students…………how can we solve this problem wile giving every kid a chance to learn…how do we handle the difficult kids who ..do we just give up on them ….stop blaming Mr hyacinth if he refuses to give up on these kids…………while on the other hand there are kids who are may be disruptive because they are simply rude…. we need to punish these kids while at the same try to make them better individuals……it is a difficult task cause other children are suffering because of these kids behavior… i am in no way against expelling a child from school…but it must be shown that the kid was given many to change and the teachers and other inauthority did every thing possible to try to help them

    • Justice and Truth
      February 16, 2012

      @ Tiny

      Finally, you have written something excellent. I know you are capable of doing that. :lol: The Minister of Education is lax to allow this to happen. I suppose it is thought that if they enter high school they will do better and excel. Wrong thinking and presumptuous!
      Primary education commences from elementary school where children learn to read and write and learn other matters. I recall some of what I learned in elementary school, even the names, towns, main produce, exports and size of the West Islands. I learned a lot in the elementary school.
      In high school we were only taught maths, geography, history, literature. This included singing, exercise, games. We had a teacher who taught “etiquette” – good manners. I received this from my parents but I welcomed it in high school.
      This teacher now resides in Toronto as I. We do not often see. Whenever I meet her in a social gathering I say to her which the others hear, “She was one of my teachers in high school.” She told me, “You are always saying that.” We get a good laugh. I can’t help it. It also brings back fond memories of high school. I am certain she feels good about that. I respected her as a teacher then and to this day.
      Children must be able to read and write to enter high school. Therefore something is wrong with the elementary school/system if they are not able to do so.
      Is the Minister of Education not aware of that? If so, it is obvious that those children were not yet prepared and ready to enter high school.
      Likewise school discipline. It commences from elementary school. So what type of teachers are there in the elementary school that they are not able to prepare those children for high school?
      It appears that the elementary school system is also a failure and needs revamping.

  66. smart1
    February 16, 2012

    i’m 100% wit the kids dat a protestin cause day should not b payin 4 da wrong doin of another child…u can c da childrean is interestin in learnin cause if day didnt day would not start a protest…please dont punish those children by deprivin dem from there education

  67. FED UP DOMINICAN
    February 16, 2012

    While some are saying ‘EXPEL THEM’. I’m asking why sould they be expelled.

    They are not rioting, they are protesting. They are concerned for themselves and their teachers. These are just some of the ones wanting to learn.

    While we are commenting on a few that are ready to voice their concerns, lets stop and think about the troublemakers who see today as a day off to do what ever.

  68. Dominican to da bone
    February 16, 2012

    so where is the statement from the Education Minister is he not talking.. He should have addressed that situation. I think that they need to listen to the kids and teachers there is no type of support system for teachers and kids in Dominica. Everyone looks out for their selves and their own.. Alas poor Dominique… aye Dominik..

  69. alyssa
    February 16, 2012

    we really need help please help us sir winston was a great teacher. moc exams is in 2 weeks HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  70. But How???
    February 16, 2012

    MSG FOR BAD THINGS:

    FIRST THINGS FIRST , I HATE IT WHEN PERSONS WHO KNOW NOTHING ABOUT DOMINICA SPEAK LIKE THEY KNOW WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING IN THE COUNTRY . IF YOU NO LONGER LIVE HERE, ASK A QUESTION, BECAUSE QUITE CLEARLY U DONT HAVE THE SLIGHTEST CLUE.
    SECONDLY, TAKE YOUR TIME TO READ THE ARTICLE …SOME OF THE STUDENTS ARE SUPPORTING THEIR TEACHERS, THEY ARE ONLY ASKING THE OFFICIALS TO HELP RESTORE PEACE AT DGS..
    LASTLY, STOP COMPARING OUR SWEET ISLAND WITH ITS FEW ISSUES TO OTHER ISLANDS….FOR THE RECORD, EVERYWHERE HAS ISSUES… QUITE BEING BIAS….
    I AM DOMINICA, CLEARLY U ARE NOTTTT….

    • Smart in the Morning
      February 16, 2012

      I agree with you. I read the comment and the person really is clueless. They really think the other countries are better? Check the crime rate then come and talk. Their development comes with a price and human sacrifice. Leave Dominica so. Let the students do what they have to. They are the ones in the fire feeling the heat.

  71. Teacher
    February 16, 2012

    I think that we all (students, teachers, principals and parents) need to sit together with the authorities to find some sort of solution. I hate being in fear when I go to work. I wanted to become a teacher, because a teacher reached out to me when I was a student and helped me see the error of my ways. I ended up working harder and behaving better. At first it was because I was trying to ensure that teacher was proud of me, but after a while it was because I wanted to be proud of myself. I achieved my dream, I became a qualified teacher (first in my family to go to college). But now, I feel a bit defeated because I don’t feel that I can be my best when I don’t feel safe in front of my class. I have confidence in my knowledge of the subject areas I teach, but not with disciplining a student (and YES THIS IS PART OF THE JOB). You never know what some students are capable of. You try to protect them but…

  72. The youth
    February 16, 2012

    If I was in this situation and I had mock exam in two weeks I would not be protesting I would let the government handle that and go home and study my books until that whole situation is over. I mean thats more sensible than wasting your time on a protest that might bring no results, but if you study your books you know for sure whats your outcome. Idk thats just me.

    • aha?
      February 16, 2012

      n who gan explain?? who gan ansa our questions? the books don’t have evrything trust me!

    • tired
      February 16, 2012

      ur fool that is y things how they are.stupes

  73. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    Thats what happens when everybody gets to go to high school whether they have earned the right to or not. There is no voice from the principal, ministers etc shows how much education is now valued.

  74. no name no warrent
    February 16, 2012

    i just came from school (dgs) and i must say that was a day i will never want to experience again..
    i almost got my head burst today because of the wild children throwing chairs and tables all over the place even setting a garbage bin on fire.. i am in fouth form and if this continues i will transfer…
    cause this dont make any sense

  75. Truthofthematter
    February 16, 2012

    RISE UP MY CHILDREN!! RISE UP!!! FIGHT FOR JUSTICE!!

  76. February 16, 2012

    HOLD ON…. SOME BLOGGERs REAL FOOLISH EH… YES I’M SHOUTING… WHO SAID THESE STUDENTS ARE RIOTING… IN FACT THEY ARE IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE TEACHERS… SMDH…. expel who??? as far as i see it… we should support them for being bold… for standing up to show support to the teachers… D.G.S has always been known to be a school of leaders… i support what they did… and yes i feeling proud that D.G.S still has students who will stand up and voice concerns when things are wrong… tomorrow it will be C.H.S turn to stand up… so i guess all those high and mighty women will come and lambase them to huh…. D.G.S wasn’t called the greatest for nothing… it’s obvious all at that institution is stressed and cannot take more…

    if is so the ministry and ministers have to get the message then let it be…. some of us stay in first world countries and we support the english, canadian and u.s students when they protest and voice concerns so why belittle our own… if is one thing… leaders of tomorrow better buck up because if these students become the status quo… then future civil servants won’t lie down and take it… i bet the secretary of the civil service wish his members were so bold and daring….

    kudos to the students… those who say you all were rioting don’t understand left to right… they are the type to sit while our leaders are killed… know that what you all did was in good heart… next time be more organised… have a leader who will speak to the media in a mature way and can express the true feelings of what you all stood for…

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      wow!! very well expressed

    • Dgs Student
      February 16, 2012

      i was the one speaking.. i was the leader me n 2 other frenz

    • February 16, 2012

      AMENNNNNNNNNNNNN :-D

  77. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    Y IS IT SO HARD 4 THEM TO EXPEL STUDENTS WHO ARE ALWAYS ON SUSPENTION ALWAYS IN FIGHTS DISRESPECT TEACHERS AND DONT EVEN ATTEND A CLASS
    THEY ARE NOT LEARNING!

  78. throw them out
    February 16, 2012

    throw out the children in Ts please they can learn.

    • throw them out
      February 16, 2012

      cant learn

    • agree
      February 16, 2012

      they have technicality in learning so send them boot camp.

  79. tsk tsk tsk
    February 16, 2012

    bad thing lemme show u a sin. DOMINICA has the highest grade of CXC okay the other islands try to meet out learning levels

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      NEVER !!! ASK FOR THE RESULTS OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO. CXC RESULTS ARE IN 16’S NOTHING LIKE 10 CXC, BUT 18, AND 19 CXC’S. GET THE FACTS !!

  80. al
    February 16, 2012

    reading this article brought tears to my eyes…

    • go kids!
      February 16, 2012

      mine too

  81. Alumni
    February 16, 2012

    That could never happen with the gay principal there (s.dot)

    • Hold up!
      February 16, 2012

      Alumni, so he does ‘bug you’? Ebben your secret outside.

    • ??????
      February 16, 2012

      who say that he had it undercover. i no for a fact

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      Well your descriptive term was unnecessary but I was there during the man’s time and as much as I didn’t like him.. To put it straight he had under control

  82. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    In all this I have not heard anything from the Principal ??? He or she should be fighting for the rights of the teachers AND STUDENTS who want to learn.

    • throw them out
      February 16, 2012

      it looks like the school needs a new principle now and more task force at the school cause a student offer my son crack to take at the school

    • February 16, 2012

      its a she k :-P

  83. badthings
    February 16, 2012

    WOW; Dominica is a dark place to live as a small island country. I have never seen this in my in tired life, children looks like kindergarten protesting. Everything in Dominica is politics, with politics involve in everything and with politics involve, no country will ever make any progress in development, Dominica you keep this up your country will be like Somalia, lawless!.. Look at the other islands developing to make their country better (BARBADOS, ST LUCIA, SVG, GRENADA, SAINT KITTS, and ANTIQUA AND ON AND ON) and what we are doing for development for the country, putting our children out there to protesting and protesting with politics, pleased wake up and make the country productive every morning instead of protesting, have a good day!!!

    • sonia
      February 16, 2012

      Please grow the hell up. These kids are protesting for their safety. what politics you talking about shots man.

  84. awa
    February 16, 2012

    Sorry the word is sure

  85. awa
    February 16, 2012

    This is not the only school in Dominica that is happening at . What about PSS? What is the Ministry of Education doing? Some of the teachers are removed from the schools and they are all sitting in High Street with nothing to do and some degree. There are so many people with degrees sitting there , the temperature there must be hot. What about the kids who are not academically inclined? Someone said send them to Adult Education . I want to dispel the myth that adult education are for those who are misfits and rejects . This is definitely NOT SO . There has been a number of successes for those who have participated in those programmes . I am suer some people will agree with me . There is the CSEC,CCSLC, ICT, and many other skills that are available for parents who continue to wait on welfare benefits and do nothing at all . This should be a condition for the receipt of benefits ,attend some skill courses to upgrade themselves so they can eventually get off welfare .

  86. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    I remember a time when a threat was “If this continues, we are going to call your parents”. That was enough to make a student want to behave better. Now, many students (not all) resort to physical violence as the first action. Something went wrong somewhere, because now it seems that youngsters are seeking respect by trying to instill fear. And they are using physical violence, threats and ultimatums to do so. This is not the type of respect you should want.

    They students who are peacefully protesting have earned my respect, because they are showing that you can get positive attention if you act intelligently and abide by the law. I do wish that they would come together in a more organised way, and speak clearly about the things that they need.

    They say that they need security. They just need to feel safe at school. And they have a right to demand that. The schools should be safe, for the teachers, the administrators and the students. But students, you are agreeing with the teachers, try working out a solution with them, and bringing it to the relevant authorities.

    All in all, good luck with your quest (and in your mock exams). Work hard, work together, work for good and achieve great things!

    • JAIL DEMMMM!!!
      February 16, 2012

      Respect my foot… dem children disrespecftful! JAIL DEM!

      • S.M.A
        February 16, 2012

        @JAIL DEMMMM!!! u must B. guess u neva bin 2 sec. school. n u must b in close links wit d government. if i was still in school. no police preventin us from enterin d parliment. is time we Dominicans strat sum wer. n d younger ppl who care startin wat neds 2 b done

      • JAIL DEMMMM!!!
        February 16, 2012

        @S.M.A Big stupes!

    • JAIL DEMMMM!!!
      February 16, 2012

      TRUE! They should work with the teachers

  87. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    What police doing in fatigue ? That’s all they can do ?????????

  88. Original Eagle-Eye
    February 16, 2012

    I’m not looking for brownie points so those of you giving the thumbs down feel free. This is nonesense. These kids protesting are in SOLIDARTY with the TEACHERS at DGS and only want to have a voice for their concerns to security and having teachers back in their classrooms so they can persue their education. What about that is wrong? Some of you are cowards so you will enjoy the intimidation of SSU. If BALA, CONGOREY, Martin Luther, Medgar Evers, Nelson Mandela and all the others who stood up to the status quo had rolled over and die, then what world would we inherit.

    The SSU presence is overeaching. Listening to Q a police is yelling at the top of his lungs to the kids about they don’t have rights to protest. The child was speaking in solidarity of the TEACHER and asking for him to get the SCAN ASAP and not have to wait 2 months.

  89. I love Dominica
    February 16, 2012

    The students are against the other students fighting and they want the teachers to teach. They are concerned that teachers not teaching will affect their mock exams in two weeks. I agree with their protest but students do not throw chairs or cause any harm to others. Get the teachers back to teaching and provide a safe environment for both teachers and students.

  90. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    I listerned to Matt and heard that there are students protesting in Roseau, but the impression I got was they are on the teachers side and that they WANT to learn. They care and want their school back to normal.

    They have obviously had enough and feel that it is time they voiced their concerns. They have exams and their future to worry about.

    The troublemakers are elsewhere, and they are the ones we should be worrying about.

  91. kartel
    February 16, 2012

    gangsta 4 life ,stand up for yourself students them same teachers flirting and bringing home their female students ,one down mand more to go

    • wise from the east
      February 16, 2012

      @ kartel nonsense you talking.go read a book your have technical difficulty learning.

  92. linky
    February 16, 2012

    in dominica nobody do have right to protest

  93. Revolutionary
    February 16, 2012

    lol well politicians afraid to prostest against Bogus election results, Air traffic controllers afraid to protest against ppl form the Diaspora voting and Children & Teachers protesting.

    I was saying i’m concerned about Dominica. But i take that back. The future seems to be bright.

  94. skerrit james
    February 16, 2012

    wat nonsense is that with them liitle brats children

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      madam skerrit..dha is nt noise..if it was ur child u wud do d same thing! becuz dey doe do ntn yet u sayin dat..stupes my lady best u eevn disappear off the face of the earth if u knw wa good for u…wen sumting happen is wen we does wnt tu tke action!

    • sweetness
      February 16, 2012

      i hope u do have no brats or u not one

    • qstorm78
      February 16, 2012

      Seriously?.. Its nonsense when they’re stand up for what is right? What a clown!

    • student
      February 16, 2012

      you all out dre talkin negative about us(yes im a grammar skool student) all u dont kno wats goin on n really n truly i serious believe all u need to SHOUT UP some time n LISTEN becuz not every one in the skool dat is bad a few of us ( SO I STAND FOR MY SCHOOL WI NEED BETTER SECURITY) AND I HOPE N PRAY MR WINSTON GETS BETTER

      • Anonymous
        February 17, 2012

        You are a Grammar School student? noooo wayy, you lying, So all you speaking and writing/spelling? Awa don’t lie on those teachers. Your vocab, grammer, tense, every damn thing is “GRAMMATICALLY WRONG” with your statement.

  95. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    Did anyone read before putting up all these comments? The students are protesting against other students who are fighting the teachers. This is in solidarity for the teachers in other words.
    They are not the ones fighting; they are asking for security so that the troublemakers will behave;

    • no name no warrant
      February 16, 2012

      thank you very much! i support u 100%

    • Lost in the world
      February 16, 2012

      DNO did not post this entire story…It was only updated afterwards, The previous story stated that DGS students started a riot and they were protesting in Town

    • WoW
      February 16, 2012

      they only just updated it too this

  96. Love for country
    February 16, 2012

    I believe the Government should change that rules
    which they have.”teachers should discipline children when they do wrong”

  97. WoW
    February 16, 2012

    Oh now I no… they are supporting the Teachers? RIGHT ON KIDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  98. Original Eagle-Eye
    February 16, 2012

    Personally I think the police in camouflage to keep a few kids in line is over reacting and intimidation. Why send SSU to tell a few kids keep quiet? is this Tiananmen Square? I don’t for a second condone what is going on, but law enforcement and Education better watch how they handle this less they have an all out war on their hands. What if some child react what will the police do? This is over reaching and frightening. The students need to be kept in line, but SSU REALLY? Skerrit use your charm and as an old DGS boy come out of parliament and pacify the kids, just tell them some kind words. We are still dealing with children here.

    • Me
      February 16, 2012

      Shut Up.

    • ალბერტ პოლ
      February 16, 2012

      YOU ARE SUCH AN IDIOT……THE SSU ARE STATIONED OUTSIDE PARLIAMENT…THE STUDENTS CAME TO PARLIAMENT….THE SSU OFFICER HAPPENED TO BE THERE…SO HE SPOKE TO THEM….SIMPLE…WHY ARE YOU TRYING TO MAKE IT SEEM LIKE…THE GOVERNMENT OF THE POLICE BRASS DEPLOYED SSU TO DEAL WITH CHILDREN…..GOD YOU PEOPLE IN THE COUNTRY ARE SICK….IT’S BECAUSE OF PEOPLE LIKE YOU THAT THINGS GET SO OUT OF CONTROL…DAMN INSTIGATOR.

      • DEJAVU
        February 16, 2012

        BUT YOU ARE THE IDIOT AFTER ALL BECAUSE YOU CURSING AT SOMEONE FOR A FACT WHEREAS YOU ARE SPEAKING FROM THE BOTTOM UP! SSU WERE AT Q. I’M NOT ASKING YOU I’M TELLING. THEY ONLY CALM DOWNED WHEN THE PUBLIC STARTED RALLYING AROUND THE KIDS, THEY REALISED THE CHILDREN HAD PROTECTION. STOP WITH THE HIGH HANDED IGNORANCE. BETTER TO BE THOUGHT OF AS A FOOL THAN IN THIS CASE TYPE AND REMOVE ALL DOUBT

      • Dgs Student
        February 16, 2012

        yes!! but is de way they were talking to us!! screaming at the top of their voices!! because they have they education in dre head we just have sit bac n watch our lives be destroyed!! the police did their job in an bad manner!! one of dem shouted at a 3rd former causing her to cry!!! what is this!! stop talk rubbish! man

    • me
      February 16, 2012

      cops were unarmed

    • oh please
      February 16, 2012

      stupessssssss WHY THE HELL SKERRIT HAVE TO COME AND CALM THEM? AND WHAT YOU WANTED THE OFFICER TO WEAR TO WORK? BOWMAN? gosh you people are so ignorant! The parents of the students need to keep their children in check. What perturbs me is the fact that parents cry to teachers saying they don’t know what to do with their children.

      OK… so if you as a parent who birthed your child cannot take care of them and keep them in line. Why do the teachers have to take the blows for your hooligans?

      Further more , if they were so terrified by authority they would shut the hell up and be STUDENTS and respect their teachers enough behave their DAM SELVES

  99. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    Obviously these are not the children in the school causing the problems, these are the ones who want to learn and their parents and teachers should join them. It is high time teachers are recognised in Dominica for what they are, paid proper salaries and given benefits. benefits is for one sent of people ????? Ministers who never do anything in life, get people to vote for them by bribing them and then they have all benefits and moreeeee. Teachers working for donkey years, dedicating their lives to the development of young people and they get nothing. When they ask for a scholarship to move on and study they cannot get it but all partyites can get. THIS IS UNFAIR.

  100. concerned
    February 16, 2012

    it looks like the principal have no control over the school

    • ??????
      February 16, 2012

      she have full contol .moe that causing that they tieing her hand that boy should be out long time

  101. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    Throwing chairs and water bags is not the right way but peaceful demonstration to get their point across. These children have a right to learn. This is not fair to them. WHERE IS THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION ? The Minister ???????????? THe Chief Educational Officer ?????????????? Why is the police shooing them away ???? Why can’t they protest peacefully ???????

    • February 17, 2012

      anonymous person :-P u are someone with a good brain , becuz wat u sayin dere is so true :wink:

  102. la verite.
    February 16, 2012

    nowadays when you discuss with youth,you can hardly place a word because they are mr and miss know-it-all.that is not the prestigeous DGS i knew.where is mr goodrich?among the students who really seek an answer to the problems,there some just there for spite,trust me.

  103. bug her
    February 16, 2012

    so what happening to the child?

    • aha?
      February 16, 2012

      nothing as usual na..a lil suspension…n he always on suspension anyways…the students r protesting that he shud b expelled

  104. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    IT TAKES CHILDREN TO STAND UP FOR SOMETHING IN DOMINICA. Take that all you spineless adults. Hopefully they will do it in a proper way. Children stand up for your right for a safe learning environment, one that is conducive to development. They need to get rid of hyacinth, he is a big problem. I worked closely with him in these situations some years ago and he ALWAYS took the side of the students. He is not the right man for the job neither is Simeon Joseph. I am being very real, this is the truth.

  105. February 16, 2012

    This was quite a a quick response from the police to disperse the School kids,eh!! I would like to know where were the police during the times when all these rapes, robberies and asults were taking place??
    This is what you call misplaced and misuse of resourses.

    • teacher
      February 16, 2012

      there wasn’t a quick response. they were protesting outside of the parliament so therefore the guards there spoke to them

  106. la verite.
    February 16, 2012

    they cannot march without the consent of the student body.and their should be a spokesperson for the organisation of any manifestation

    • More to Come
      February 16, 2012

      No time for all that red tape and authority drama we are addressing our situation now as it’s happening. We are looking to those in authority to help us and this is the kind of response that we are getting. What do you expect us to do but do as they do.

  107. Real Dominican Diva
    February 16, 2012

    oh me, oh my I can’t believe what’s going down. I’ve never seen such a thing in my life. I praying for my friend Fari, but I’m praying for the students that their voices are heard; the ones who care about their education, and those who do not support/promote violence. Either way you slice it, the trouble makers need to be disciplined.

  108. :-(
    February 16, 2012

    The biggest sign of moral decay in a country is when the students and youth of that country (the future generation) are on the streets in protest.
    Pray for Dominica!! Alas!

  109. Dominican Child
    February 16, 2012

    I’m a secondary school teacher and everyday I get worried at the level of violence at schools. I’m beginning to fear for my life and that of my fellow teachers!

  110. m
    February 16, 2012

    Who gave those children the authority to leave the school I would suspend those children cause if a vehicle hit anyone of them is the school they will blame, all they got to do is sit down in their class and wait to hear the respond from the teachers union on the matter what will they profit from this protest?

    • zor
      February 16, 2012

      my boy de news said: “At about 9:15 on Thursday students of the Dominica Grammar School were sent home after disruptive behavior by students brought the school to a standstill.” LEARN TO READ AND UNDERSTAND

    • STUDENT
      February 16, 2012

      they were sent home

    • apples
      February 16, 2012

      lol there was no school today. thats why the childrren protesting

    • concern
      February 16, 2012

      the Chief Edcation officer gave the principal the green light to send them home

    • bambi
      February 16, 2012

      I am of the belief you did not read the article……y comments shiws the type of parenting that create little mibsters, luke the student who assaulted the teacher

    • zzzzzz
      February 16, 2012

      stupzzzzz read! The principal sent them home!

    • D
      February 16, 2012

      they did not leave school….school was dismissed

    • mouth open
      February 16, 2012

      didn’t u read that they were dismissed idiot? the teachers will b having a meeting at 11am

    • shatta
      February 16, 2012

      donkey u doe seeing they send home student earlier during the day monkey

    • yes Lord
      February 16, 2012

      you doe hear they send them home cuz school ha riot?

    • J
      February 16, 2012

      READ BEFORE YOU COMMENT

    • More to Come
      February 16, 2012

      If your house is burning down would you stay inside? Idiot. They have rights and they should damn well exercise it. Let Dominica know that some of the teachers at that school a not worth being teachers. I fully support the students actions.

    • I love Dominica
      February 16, 2012

      they were sent home, why would they keep them if teachers are not teaching them. Its like siting in front of the blackboard doing what they want. The previous report indicated that the teachers would not teach because of the incident with Mr. Winston.

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      us chrildre are protestin for us to learn .why would they suspend us?

    • aha?
      February 16, 2012

      ohhhhhhhhh u r a dummie!! obviosly u haven’t been 2 skool

    • February 16, 2012

      Bonjiay! I suspect M dead by now… suicide… with all dem comments there

  111. tiny
    February 16, 2012

    something is confusing here….the students are throwing chairs and are chanting that they care for the school….i don’t want to say it you know but this is what our kids know….solve problems through violence and force….isn’t that what many folks on here are proposing…..become a militant leader is the only way to achieve law and order?….

    • MOT
      February 16, 2012

      “throwing chairs and chanting we care for our school”….sounds like an oxymoron to me.

      • Shane
        February 16, 2012

        stop looking at it as if its the same set of children.. let the good shine past the bad of this situation

      • February 16, 2012

        sounds like those Muslims saying “we are peaceful,” while choking a nun

    • teacher
      February 16, 2012

      the troublemakers were the ones tossing tables and chairs.they need to get the hell out

    • ??????
      February 16, 2012

      the bad elements we want to get rid of are the one throwing the chairs
      not the ones who want to learn

  112. REFRESH
    February 16, 2012

    We cannot tell the teachers DO NOT teach DO NOT go to school, they will NOT get pay, but again that might send a message, if all teachers at DGS stay home then parents and children will learn something even if it will be for a while…What are we do to as teachers….Yes I am a TEACHER

    • WoW
      February 16, 2012

      I agree!

  113. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    More teachers at other schools should stand against violence! let us show them them that we are fed up!!! Too long we hav suffered the neglet from the MOE! Stand up for TEACHERS! Stand up for what is RIGHT!!!

    • Secretary
      February 16, 2012

      I am sure that the other teachers from the other schools (Public and Assisted) are ready to support DGS teachers………. they just have to say the word!

  114. possie
    February 16, 2012

    Rise get wise open up your eyes…. I was proud to say i was a part of it! :-D They were also sendings desk and bags of water :lol: :lol:

  115. sookooyat
    February 16, 2012

    THE TEACHERS ARE TO BE BLAMED :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

    • Secretary
      February 16, 2012

      You are shameless!!!

    • BiGmE
      February 16, 2012

      Read the children fighting for the teacher and you like a fool saying teachers should be blame lol…. guess you need to learn to read I blame you for that.

  116. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    My God! this is obviously not the DGS I attended!!!

    • Stop!
      February 16, 2012

      Definitely not the DGS I was once HeadGirl to in the early 90s.

    • Homeboy
      February 16, 2012

      Obviously the only constant in life is change. The issues of your era will never mirror those of another era. Things that probably occurred in your time would maybe be considered unacceptable in this time. I don’t condone irresponsible behavior but the children outside parliament had the right attitude, they are against students that are causing rifts and supporting their teacher!

  117. Concerned.
    February 16, 2012

    Some people I passing in town saying they not rioting them children just troublemakers. Apparently something deeper than wat we are just seeing on the surface is going on. There is a crowd in front the parliament with signs etc protesting right now

  118. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    Is about time DGS TEACHERS TAKE A STAND,IS PURE NONSENSE THAT GOING ON ,IN THESES SCHOOLS NOW.tHE GOVERNMENT NEED TO PAY ATTENTION TO IT AND DEAL WITH IT

  119. MANGO LUNG
    February 16, 2012

    well well my people its a sad situation … persons in authority must intervene. Justice must be served to both teachers and students. GOD HELP DOMINICA … WHATS NEXT

  120. My2Sense
    February 16, 2012

    Does anyone know why they started to riot/protest?

  121. WoW
    February 16, 2012

    maybe they should be strict like Convent…. Ask Convent What they doing to control them children… However I think these Type if Behaviors Start At Home!

    they are the one beating teachers.. bringing weapons to school…. scaring away people… I hope they have a good reason why they are protesting though… You can’t protest without a goal in mind

  122. Question mark
    February 16, 2012

    the problem is the school is way to big..they should have never added that other branch…they were better off making a new high school

  123. FAIRNESS
    February 16, 2012

    well well something is definitely wrong with the youth of this country. Earlier this week PSS also had some riot with students and teachers. These children are crying they really need a listening ear.

  124. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    shouting “we care about dgs”, and damaging the school furniture before taking to the streets in quite a vulgar and disgraceful way?? now what do these two have in common? Don’t really think that this shows that they care about dgs. A group of young men/boys in uniform walked down cork street, using all form of obsene words that they could master at the top of their voices. Now again tell me, what does that have to do with caring about dgs?

    • aha?
      February 16, 2012

      the people protesting were not damaging skool furniture at all..get ur facts straights please!

  125. WoW
    February 16, 2012

    why are they protesting?

  126. Dominican
    February 16, 2012

    The fact is that the vast majority of these children are serious about their work and want to be in school. The small group of troublemakers is wreaking havoc on the education of the others and it has to stop.

    If the students are demonstrating for a safe school then I support the demonstration. Parents who want their children to be in a safe environment should demonstrate with the students. Fight for your school.

  127. wooty
    February 16, 2012

    what a sad moment do something for the children

  128. heee gas
    February 16, 2012

    they only want justice for their teacher ..

  129. judge
    February 16, 2012

    Government need to take a firm stand against these discrepancies! where is the law in Dominica? cane them on their bottom! make them feel the wood on their bodies. Come on man! Threatening teachers that they make atmospheres inconducive? I DON’T THINK SO!

  130. kiss me
    February 16, 2012

    that what happing? yes i

  131. He noe easy
    February 16, 2012

    Mr. Hyancinth is on QFM and saying the children are NOT protesting….THATS A LIE!!!!!!!THEY ARE INDEED PROTESTING MR. HYACINTH….OPEN YOUR EYES TO THESE PROBLEMS…..

    • HOPE!!!
      February 16, 2012

      He said from where he is – Donwstairs Government Headquarters, there is no protesting.

    • Anonymous
      February 16, 2012

      That’s all they do LIE to the people on all matters and issues even when they are so obvious, far less for what is NOT obvious.. This country is in DEEEEEEEEEEEEP S@)%!! Keep your heads in the sand like ostriches still, and continue to exalt criminals in high places! Ples tar ples twist!

  132. m
    February 16, 2012

    Mens Sana In Corpore Sano! — what has it become?

  133. Anonymous
    February 16, 2012

    why are they rioting & protesting?…fill me in some one, i don’t know the story but this is not comforting

    • NO1
      February 16, 2012

      Um… If you can write, I’m sure you can read..

  134. Liberal
    February 16, 2012

    these kids r sumn else
    They r the ones beating teachers but THEY tht rioting

    • ACJ
      February 16, 2012

      not all the students are beating teachers. these are the children that care about their safety as well as the safety of their teachers. It is their safety at risk too.

    • ....
      February 16, 2012

      they r not rioting! they are in solidarity with the teachers!

    • White Tee
      February 16, 2012

      They are actually protesting against the abuse given to teachers, robbery at school everyday , the teacher who was attacked badly , security at school and that the violent students be removed from the school and allow learning to continue to those who want to learn

    • GoldenGal
      February 16, 2012

      see you need to get the FACTS before opening your mouth… like MANY dominicans… who FAIL epically when it comes to not gossiping about others… just talking to talk… turns out the students are protesting for justice for the injured teacher…

    • bug her
      February 16, 2012

      there are some bag eggs in every basket, the child who hit the teacher should be expelled from school, not because one child behaved badly u have to class all children the same.
      it was time that the children rise up and let there voice be heard

  135. juice
    February 16, 2012

    so much for the prestige DGS stood for ,so sad for our society

    • Malatete
      February 16, 2012

      This is the inevitable outcome when you reduce everything to the level of the “lowest common denominator”.

  136. February 16, 2012

    My years at Grammar School has never seen a riot! Hmmm. Change of the times!

  137. Chrissy
    February 16, 2012

    Expel all the troublemakers…let their parents deal with their delinquencies…. Those who want to learn should be allowed back in…no exceptions!!! Staff at DGS or any other school take a stand, zero tolerance!

    • Liberal
      February 16, 2012

      it take soo long to expel a child in a government school

  138. skerrit james
    February 16, 2012

    corruption and chaos in this land,the end is near yet far,repent to save our fiend souls

  139. hmmm
    February 16, 2012

    they actually walkin around the streets of roseau now

  140. smh
    February 16, 2012

    weee bodyere

  141. fed up
    February 16, 2012

    they are now walking the streets protesting and shouting “we care for DGS”. What is this country coming to.

    • Dominican
      February 16, 2012

      if they are shouting “We care for DGS” then this is a positive thing. We must listen to the children.

      • juice
        February 16, 2012

        but they should lear to listen to authority first.respect your elders so they can respect you.

      • SINISTER
        February 16, 2012

        SO WH ARE THEY RIOTING N THROWING CHAIRS?

      • It hurts
        February 16, 2012

        The authorities must also learn to listen to children too many times we think that children must always respect elderly and elderly must not. It cannot be so we must all respect each other, small big medium. I am in support of the children who are interested in their education, the education system just need to expell those who are not interesting receiving an eduction

      • Me
        February 16, 2012

        Exactly. We first need to look at the management of the school. Is there a principal? Who is the authority for the school/within the school despite the ministry of education? What is the leadership of the school (DGS) itself doing. Why aren’t we hearing from the principal/vice principal et. al?

    • Teacher
      February 16, 2012

      This country is coming to what we parents make of it. UWP passed the education act and is today the ugly head come out. The students that do that are not different from their parents. BRING BACK MR. WILSON TO CLAMP THEIR STYLE.

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