Sinn Féin TD for Kerry, Pa Daly, has called for an expansion of the Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) coordinator programme to be expanded to rural schools.
The scheme currently operates mostly in urban areas in Kerry.
Teachta Daly said that a HSCL coordinator, a teacher from a relevant school, works in partnership with parents, teachers and local community organisations to support positive educational outcomes for students.
“The HSCL Coordinator also works closely with Educational Welfare Officers (EWO) and personnel from the School Completion Programme to improve educational outcomes for children,” said Teachta Daly.
Vital Supporting Role
“As part of their remit, the HSCL Coordinator will meet parents during home visits, at courses for parents in the school and at other school and community events. They perform a vital role in supporting children and teens who need that extra support,” he continued.
“The scheme is already operating with great success in Kerry, centered on schools within the large towns in the county. Given the issues within rural schools, where parents often live in isolated areas and find it hard to get transport to and from appointments such as Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy, a HSCL Coordinator would make a huge difference.
Expand to Rural Areas
“I have been contacted by educators in Kerry who are seeking additional help in the form of Home School Liaison support for their communities. The funding for the programme to be expanded into rural areas should be found. Early interventions for children within the school environment can improve outcomes and reduce state expenditure at later ages.
“I have heard from schools across Kerry about this and have already raised the matter directly with Minister Foley,” he said.
You can contact The Maine Valley Post on… Anyone in The Maine Valley Post catchment area who would like to send us news and captioned photographs for inclusion can send them to: jreidy@mainevalleypost.com Queries about advertising and any other matters regarding The Maine Valley Post can also be sent to that address or just ring: 087 23 59 467.
