Address why teachers quit

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Instead of commending ourselves on our relatively young cohort of teachers, the Ministry of Education (MOE) should address why so many older teachers have left the profession ("Singapore teachers among the most hard-working: Study"; last Thursday).

Former teacher Marietta Koh wrote about why teachers leave, including the lack of work-life balance ("Look beyond monetary incentives"; last Tuesday).

MOE appears to be selectively applying its advocacy of work-life balance. For example, in some schools, teachers in charge of co-curricular activities with practices on Saturdays have had to sacrifice time with their families to be on duty.

Another reason for the long hours may be the way teachers are appraised. Ambitious teachers try to outdo one another for the best grade on their performance appraisal, resulting in an unhealthy zero-sum game.

My daughter recently bemoaned that several good teachers in her former school have left, or plan to leave.

It may seem far-fetched, but the youth of our teaching force may be linked to the rising cases of sexual misconduct among teachers. Older mentors can provide wise counsel and perhaps deter younger male teachers from sexual liaisons with their students.

Maria Loh Mun Foong (Ms)