Olivenhoutbosch - Gauteng Education MEC Barbara Creecy has called on parents to deepen their participation in school governance by participating in the school governing body elections that will take place this year.
Creecy, who took part in the school cleaning campaign in Sebokeng and Olivenhoutbosch this weekend, said last year this time, the department launched the parents' guidelines booklet and conducted parental workshops in 1 1 83 underperforming primary and high schools. This helped to build partnerships with parents, educators and learners to make education a societal priority.
To prepare for the first day of school, the department enlisted the help of families, communities and other interested organisations. Schools in Gauteng and other inland provinces open on Wednesday.
"They have cut grass, cleaned toilets, washed windows and removed weeds throughout this weekend ... This is part of how families can get involved in the education of their children," Creecy said.
About 150 schools throughout the province have been cleaned over the weekend.
Creecy, who took part in the painting of classrooms at Steve Tshwete Secondary School, attributed the school's improved matric results to parents cooperating with the school.
The school improved from a 68 percent pass rate in 2009 to 76 percent in 2010 and 81 percent in 2011. Of the 143 learners who passed, 17 obtained distinctions.
"... It is a result of parents' cooperation, who ensured that there was consistent attendance," Creecy said.
School principal Takalani Ndou said the school would continue with the programmes introduced by the department to assist learners as they were aiming for an 85 percent pass rate this year.
"We will continue to work with parents to ensure that learners attend Saturday classes and consistently attend school," said Ndou.
Parent Jimmy Phahlamohlaka, who came to the school to help with cleaning, said he was encouraged by the department's determination to improve the education of their children.
"Cooperation between the school and parents is very important as we get an opportunity to have our input towards our children's education and monitor their progress in school," said Phahlamohlaka.
