Chiriquí Teachers protest For Higher Wages
Aug 24th, 2006 by Don Ray
I happened to be down town today as the Association of Chiriquí Teachers was walking down the street. I think they just got a $90 a month salary increase, but appearantly they want more.
We are considering moving to the David area with our three children for a year. Do you have more information on the schools there (either international-style schools or local, publix schools)?
Also, if you were to pick the ideal Pacific beach in Panama to live on, which would it be?
Hola Don,
Can you tell me more about the education system in Chiriqui? I know they have more materials and supplies than Nicaragua. I’m curious to know more because my husband and I are both teachers. I’m planning on volunteering in the schools around David, when we move. I volunteered in Nicaragua and it was the most rewarding experience.I had an opportunity to really get to know the kids and their families. The teachers were making $61. a month in Nica.(When the government got around to paying them) There were never any supplies or materials and if the kids couldn’t afford uniforms or books, they just didn’t go to school. I tried to gather supplies, books, uniforms, and other necessities, but the task was overwhelming. The teachers were so appreciative, but occasionally, I found that they sold the things I brought in order to feed their families. It was frustrating to see the lack of government support for the teachers and schools. Ignorance does not breed contempt for the government, therefore the Nica philosophy is to keep the masses ignorant and uneducated. I hope Panama has a different philosophy.
Debbie,
I use to live in Nicaragua before I moved here. I am working with an lady who is working with her local rural school in Chiriqui. I also have contacts with the English Dept. at the local university. I also have contacts with some here who studied in the USA under the Fulbright Scholorship program. Why not send me a private email? Cheers..John chiriquijohn at yahoo dot com
Sorry, I am afraid that Chiriqui education is not an area that I know much about.
Also, being fair skinned, I avoid the beaches and really can’t provide much help there either.