CHINA> National
Reconstruction of Beichuan Middle School starts on anniversary
By Wang Jianfen and Qi Xiao (chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2009-05-12 14:24

Total costs for the new school will be less than 200 million yuan, and its design will be centered on "practicality rather than luxuriousness," Liu emphasized. "A number of landmark buildings to commemorate the earthquake are high on the agenda, but saving costs is a top priority."  

Reconstruction of Beichuan Middle School starts on anniversary

The students are now attending classes in the Changhong training center in Sichuan's Mianyang City. [chinadaily.com.cn]  

However, to make the new school one of the nation's best relies as much, if not more, on "software". The lack of top-notch teachers is the biggest obstacle facing Liu's ambition. He hopes to solve this problem by introducing more talent, and more importantly, developing more indigenous teachers from within. 

"It's hard for us to attract top teachers from other parts of the country, given the conditions we are in and the salaries and the accommodation we can offer," he said. At the same time, teachers from Beichuan Middle School are "going out" and taking part in various training schemes, including those provided by Hong Kong's St. Paul's Secondary and the Capital Normal University. 

Indeed, Liu has a blueprint. In three years' time, he intends to expand the teaching staff to 300, his ideal number for a top middle school, from the current 211. This year, he plans to recruit 50 new teachers. 

When asked if those teachers who survived the earthquake will be dropped if they cannot reach the level required by a top national middle school, Liu firmly said "Definitely not!" 

More than 140 teachers experienced the earthquake, Liu said, and they have made great sacrifices and contributions to the school. He is hopeful that all of them will be able to perform their new roles through training. Even if they cannot, he will make proper arrangements to find everyone a proper position. 

Reconstruction of Beichuan Middle School starts on anniversary

Boys playing basketball on the playground. Headmaster Liu Yachun hopes they could remain undisturbed by their past. chinadaily.com.cn]  

All of these efforts are, of course, for the students. "Their life is bright," Liu said. "Right now, what I'm most worried about is someone asking the students about the earthquake." He even made an appeal to the media to avoid reminding them of the past. 

The one thing they need most, headmaster Liu said, is peace and tranquility.