Principals of public and private schools on the island have been reminded of the need for proper management of their schools.

The reminder was issued by Education Minister the Hon. Bertrand Joseph Wednesday morning at the opening of the annual Principals' Meeting at the Multi-Purpose Centre, held under the theme "improved quality."

In his address, the minister elaborated on the importance of punctuality in keeping with improved quality at the nation's educational institutions.

"The chief education officer and I have had the opportunity to visit some of the schools in this nation, and I have noted with some concern the lack of punctuality. I've seen attendances of teachers in some of the nation's schools, those are unacceptable.

They impact on the outcome of students, and even when present at our educational institutions, there's this tendency for them not to be present in class."

Minister Joseph is calling for greater supervision on the part of managers at school plants, so as to ensure that classrooms are attended to at all times. He made it clear that laxity in punctuality and attendance has serious implications within the school system.

Joseph also highlighted monitoring, mentoring and motivating as important to improved quality, and which principals should pay special attention to.

During her remarks at the one-day meeting, Chief Education Officer Jacintha Pringle while complimenting the principals for the work they are doing in preparing students to be upstanding men and women in society, said more needs to be done to improve the educational system. She said new structures must be put in place to ensure that past mistakes are not repeated.

"I'm aware that you face difficulties plant wise, parent wise and student wise, but I urge you to lead with style and dignity, being mindful that many eyes are watching you. Many are watching you and are being motivated by you, and for many, you are the ones who must bring hope to their future."

Chief among the agenda items for the third annual principals' meeting was planning the way forward for the 2008/2009 Academic School Year.

Principals on Wednesday also heard from guest speakers including Commissioner of Police Gary Nelson, Budget Director David Matthias, Colin Greene of the Antigua and Barbuda Teachers' Union and Jacqueline Gordon from the Ministry of Education.

They spoke on topics ranging from breaking barriers, improving quality, re-classification of teachers and submissions of salary vouchers.