education

Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Teachers protest against Tokyo government control on education

The Tokyo Teachers and Staff Union on April 18 issued a statement requesting the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education to withdraw its instruction aimed at strengthening its control of management at public schools.

The instruction in question ordered the principals of 263 public schools in Tokyo to stop confirming teachers' opinions on school management by means of a show of hands or taking a vote at teachers meetings. The board is attempting to give more authority to principals.

The union's statement criticized the instruction for "suppressing discussions and consensus building among teachers," and said, "It is a measure that amounts to destroying the foundation of school education."

It also pointed out that the measure is designed to undermine the principles of the Constitution and the Fundamental Law of Education from the inside of schools.
- Akahata, April 15, 21, 2006