April 2012 Update

Jinzhai County Meishan Yu-Lang Hope Elementary School

Date of Visit: April 19, 2012

Purpose of Visit: Project Completion

Grades: K-6 (11 classes total)

The new school building is well-planned and has ample lighting, with classrooms furnished with fluorescent lights and fans. Our only complaint is that the construction quality is slightly subpar. For example: large gaps between doors and door frames, wall paint bleeding onto tiles, etc. The education bureau has promised to have the contractors fix these issues under strict guidelines. The repairs must be completed in order to have a final inspection. For student safety, we’ve also asked the education bureau to install security bars in windows on the 2nd floor and up.

Students

No. of Students: 702 (no boarding)

Student performance is ranked amongst the best in the county, giving the school a very good reputation. All students graduate on to the county junior high.

Teachers

No. of Teachers: 25

Two teachers received top city-level awards in 2011. Preparations for the project completion ceremony began in February of this year and includes performances in singing, dancing, athletic demonstrations, and other talents. All of this is organized by teachers, and they did a fantastic job.

Buildings/Facilities

Problems/Issues

The school needs to hire 6 more teachers. About 45 computers are needed. Part of the campus still needs concrete grounding. Needs a cafeteria (including space for meal preparation, cooking/cleaning, and storage) for students and teachers to take their meals.