In model rules approved by human resources development (HRD) minister Kapil Sibal relating to the right to free and compulsory education for children, the government has laid down provisions that empower parents to monitor teachers' absenteeism and attendance, maintenance of norms and standards by schools, implementation of mid-day meals and implementation of the right to education at the grassroot level.

The model rules were circulated to state governments at a meeting of state education secretaries on the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and school education on Friday.

The rules were framed under the new Right to Education Act passed by parliament recently.
The ministry stressed that there should be a school management committee for every school (except unaided ones) with at least 75% of its members drawn from among parents or guardians of children.

Accordingly, the parents and the committee's duty will be to monitor teachers' attendance, absenteeism, and whether they report on time, besides keeping an eye on private tuitions and teaching. They must also ensure teachers are not burdened with non-academic duties by the school apart from ensuring enrolment and continued attendance of all children from the neighbourhood.

Source: dnaindia.com By Vineeta Pandey Govt to give parents right to monitor schools