November 2015 Update

Zhongning County Zhouta Yu-Lang Hope Elementary School

Date of Visit: November 6, 2015

Purpose of Visit: Revisit

Grades: 1-6 (6 classes total)

The student population has been shrinking year after year because parents are moving to cities for work and taking their children with them. This symptom is very common amongst the six schools that we’ve visited during this trip. Currently, the education authorities have not yet come up with any measures to deal with this issue. The facilities in the five elementary schools and one kindergarten we’ve visited are all modernized. Aside from music, art, and PE classes, the teachers all meet their current field’s standards.

Students

No. of Students: 24 (no boarding)

Students are dedicated to their studies, with their performance ranking 2nd in Zhouta Township. After graduation all students go on to Zhouta Township’s Complete School (which teaches 1st through 9th grades).

Teachers

No. of Teachers: 13

Teachers are even more committed to educating than before.

Buildings/Facilities

Problems/Issues

The playground/sports field is small and is not concreted. The student population is steadily shrinking, which leads to less funding for the school. School operations are now very limited. Fuel for the boiler (for heating) is severely deficient and is used at a bare minimum. Lacking specialized teachers for music, art, and PE classes.