Madam, - Terence Flanagan TD (October 8th) is "alarmed to read that school principals may be given the power to decide when a teacher has not performed to a certain level".
As an experienced educationalist, I would challenge his assertion that "performance management of teachers is not and should never be the role of principals". He tries to justify his rather spurious argument by claiming that this new role would place them in a situation that could lead to antagonism among staff. He further claims that "the Minister's proposal is open to abuse, will undoubtedly foster resentment and may be counter-productive in terms of standards". His flimsy argument is singularly unconvincing and lacking in basic logic.
I cannot think of any person or body more eminently qualified to judge a teacher's overall performance ability than the school principal. Department inspectors see classroom teachers in operation only occasionally and they never have the opportunity of experiencing the "broad picture" of daily activity within a school, including feedback from pupils and parents.
To claim that this proposed added dimension to a principal's role would inevitably result in conflict and antagonism among staff is quite ludicrous. Why should school principals be any different from other managers in assuming responsibility for the day to day monitoring of their subordinates' performance? It is an integral and essential part of their role and responsibility.
Provided that principals take a balanced and responsible approach to this aspect of their job - and there is no reason to suppose that they do not, generally speaking - and that they discharge this duty fairly, respectfully and professionally, competent and committed classroom teachers have nothing to fear. A harmonious school community characterised by mutual respect and trust should prevail.
The Minister is to be complimented on her initiative. - Is mise,
PATRICK J.O'BRIEN, Maynooth, Co Kildare.
A chara, - Who assesses under-performing letter writers, and how come so many of them get their letters printed? - Is mise,
LOMAN Ó LOINGSIGH, Ellensborough Drive, Dublin 24.