April 2012 Update
Date of Visit: April 18, 2012
Purpose of Visit: Project Progress Inspection
Grades: K-9 (20 classes total)
Although the newly constructed school building hasn’t gone through a final inspection yet, it is already being used. However, we feel the quality is subpar as there is no adequate plumbing and student desks/chairs are old and damaged. Since the new school building has not been officially completed, there is currently no plumbing and electricity.
Students
No. of Students: 970+ (400+ boarding, after new building is finished)
Most (if not all) students’ parents migrate away from home for work and the children are taken care of by their grandparents. However, due to a generation gap, there are difficulties with upbringing and helping with schoolwork. Student performance evaluations have historically placed this school at above average in Yu’an District. About 80% of graduating students continue their studies, while the remaining begin working.
Teachers
No. of Teachers: 45
Teacher performance at the school is amongst the top in Yu’an District. Since more than 70% of students’ parents work far away, teachers spend weekends and school breaks to help students with their schoolwork.
Buildings/Facilities
– 32 classrooms (of which 12 in new building funded by TDF)
– Dormitory
– Library: ~2,000 books
– Computer Room: 50 computers (20 old)
– Cafeteria: 500 person occupancy
– Restrooms: 48 squat toilets
Problems/Issues
Books in the library are old, should be replaced immediately. Due to inadequate plumbing for the septic tank, the new school building’s restrooms cannot be used. The playground needs concrete grounding and the campus needs to be landscaped. There are 23 teachers who are retiring soon, which will be a great burden to the school’s administration and finances.
