----- Original Message ----- From: Esther Revivo - estherrv@xxxxxxxxxxx Subject: Listening to our gripes Firstly, I have no problem airing my opinions in front of anyone from the Dept. of Education; as hard working dedicated professionals, why need any of us fear airing legitimate complaints? I just wish to say that I believe that if Judy Steiner had the ability (primarily FINANCES) to do what SHE wants, many of our complaints would be addressed. Over the years I have often written Judy Steiner as well as Avi Tzur (my school's inspector) about different issues. Both have replied quickly and to the point. The same can NOT be said of many inspectors in other subjects studied at school. (I've overheard talk in the staff room.) We have to keep in mind that with all the good will in the world, (and Judy has a lot of it and really tries her best,) what with such horrific budget cuts over the last few years her hands are tied on many issues. Just today my rakezet and I were lamenting the fact that since the modular Bagrut came out, our hours have gone down from 5 per week to 4. Our pupils today are definitely much less proficient in English than pupils of yesteryear when 5 hours per week was the norm. The bottom line is, in my humble opinion, not convincing Judy Steiner or other inspectors of the veracity of our complaints. Rather, convincing Knesset members and the government to invest more money in education. Unless financing is available, no matter how much we rightly "kvetch" (complain,) no change will be possible even if the English Inspectorate accepts our grievances as legitimate. Esther Revivo Ulpanat Tzvia Sedot Negev ----------------------------------------------- ** Etni homepage - http://www.etni.org or - http://www.etni.org.il ** ** for help - ask@xxxxxxxx ** ** to post to this list - etni@xxxxxxxxxxxxx ** -----------------------------------------------