Dear Editor,

I would like to respond to the first lady's comments relating to our present education system. I am deeply saddened by our present educational system. I am a St. Maartener who is proud to be speaking both Dutch and English.

When I look at the children today in our classrooms, only 10 per cent is able to comprehend the Dutch. The other 90 per cent are unable to speak the language or understand it. Some do not have any interest in it whatsoever.

When the language of instruction had changed from Dutch to English, many parents did not understand this change. Those who did removed their children from the English instruction schools and placed them into a Dutch school, where the language of instruction was Dutch. Those parents clearly wanted their children to learn Dutch. Isn't it a shame that Dutch is not the language of instruction in our public schools? Only a few of our children will be able to hold positions in government. Isn't it a shame that although the foundation-based education (FBE) was implemented eight years ago, and at this present moment, teachers from the sixth grade do not know the examinations the pupils will be writing? Isn't it a shame that educators are now told to try to fix the mess that was created with the FBE system?

I am hopeful that those who are in leadership positions in the education system will take a closer look at the system. They must consider St. Maarten's children, meet their needs and help to create a system that all children will benefit.

Name withheld