November 2015 Update
Date of Visit: November 6, 2015
Purpose of Visit: Revisit
Grades: K-6 (6 classes total)
The student population has been shrinking year after year as parents migrate to the cities for work and take their children with them. This is evident in all six schools that we’ve revisited during this trip. However, the education authorities have yet to enact any measures in response to this issue. In all five elementary schools and the one kindergarten that we went to, campus facilities have been modernized. Aside from music, art, and PE classes, teachers all pretty much meet the standards of their field.
Students
No. of Students: 64 (no boarding)
Student performance is ranked amongst the top in Xinpu Town. 100% of students graduate on to Zhongning County’s #5 Middle School.
Teachers
No. of Teachers: 12
Teachers are young and are passionate about their work.
Buildings/Facilities
– 6 classrooms
– Library: ~3,680 books
– Computer Room: 16 computers
– Cafeteria: only for teachers
– Restrooms: 48 pit-style, squat toilets
– Basketball court + ping-pong tables
Problems/Issues
Lacking intelligent audio-video equipment (such as bān bān tōng [斑斑通], electronic teaching system). Not enough teaching space, with multi-purpose rooms having to be used along with regular classrooms. Needs two more activity rooms.
