Back to school today.
5861 students of all ages returned to the classroom in Monaco this morning. Compared to last year, there are few changes other than the planned move of the Lycee Technique et Hotelier de Monte Carlo (LTHMC). During the winter holidays, the LTHMC will quit Annonciade and establish itself anew as the Lycee Technique et Hotelier de Monaco in its specially constructed building in Condamine.
The Conseil Economique et Social des Jeunes (student council) returns too. Created in 2007, it offers school children an opportunity to debate social questions and to propose solutions to Monegasque public authorities. During the last academic year, the students made two suggestions:
- creating an art competition for Monaco youngsters
- using digital tablets as an alternative to traditional binders, to lighten the load carried in school bags
Both these proposals are to be put in place during 2012-2013.
As for parents, they continue to be in favour of school uniforms, removing the need for kids to keep up with their designer and luxury brand conscious peers. There are concerns too about bad habits following a recent survey of 15-16 year old students in Monaco. Findings suggest that 39% smoke, 37% have tried cannabis, and 69% drink alcohol.
The happiest days of our lives? Plus ca change!
