BOOK EXCERPT: Worth the Fight: The story behind how Jonathan Jansen revived a failing school
The latest book from Distinguished Professor of Education Jonathan Jansen is part memoir and part case study, examining what it takes to turn around a working-class school – and South Africa’s education system.
On his first visit to Cherry High School, a local school with the worst matric results in the Western Cape, author and education professor Jonathan Jansen was struck by the chaotic environment. The Grade 9 classroom he entered featured a student lounging with both feet on his desk while the teacher continued to teach. Two girls exited the room as if contemplating whether to stay or leave school.
Despite the non-stop noise, the teacher persisted in attempting to be heard over the ruckus. Outside, a boy was sliding down a drainpipe, a structure deemed too dangerous for such activities. The author expressed disbelief at the normalization of these issues, as they seemed utterly foreign compared to his previous experiences with challenging schools.
The school's deteriorating condition deeply disturbed the author, as it appeared that social systems and government policies had failed this working-class institution, and nobody seemed to notice or care.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 2 other outlets
- RM10 for all you can eat? The story behind PJ’s viral buffet freemalaysiatoday.com
- BOOK EXCERPT: Karoo Saloon on Route 62: How a biker bar became a rock roadhouse route dailymaverick.co.za
