Parents Push for PTA,Demand Accountability Over 20% Fee Hike at Parklands Baptist School
Parents assembles for the meeting held at parklands Baptist School.
Parents at Parklands Baptist School have raised concerns over a proposed 20 percent increase in school fees for the 2025–2026 academic year, citing lack of transparency, stakeholder engagement, and visible improvement in school facilities. The parents, who convened a meeting on Tuesday, expressed disappointment that the school’s Board of Management (BOM) declined to attend or send a representative to address their grievances.
Ms Doreen, a parent with four children enrolled in the institution across various levels, said the abrupt decision had thrown many families into financial uncertainty. “We received communication that school fees would be increased by 20 percent, but there was no consultation or justification. Parents were only informed toward the end of the term, making it impossible to plan. Times are tough, and such an increment is unfair,” she said.
According to parents, the recent decision was made without their input and without the involvement of any parent representatives. This exclusion undermines the principles of transparency, accountability, and participatory governance that are essential in any learning institution.
Over the past three years, parents have advocated for the formation of a Parents and Teachers Association (PTA), as provided for under the Basic Education Act (2013). Despite these efforts, there has been no goodwill from the Board of Management (BoM) or the school administration to facilitate this process. “Every school is required under the Education Act to have a functioning PTA. We have pushed for one for 12 years, but nothing has been done,” Mr. Mbaya lamented.
Another parent, Dr. Mumo, who has three children at the school, emphasized the need for accountability and inclusive decision-making. “We understand the cost of living has gone up, but good management involves dialogue. The board should sit with parents, explain the challenges, and explore cost-effective solutions. For instance, instead of paying millions for swimming lessons offsite, the school could construct its own pool,” he suggested.
Dr. Mumo also called for a clear separation between the church and school administration, noting that the current overlap has compromised transparency. “The church should play an oversight role, not manage school operations. Without accountability, school funds risk being diverted to church projects. We need professional management to oversee the school’s growth,” he added.
The parents’ representatives led by Mr. Mburu, the chairperson of class representatives, said efforts to engage the BOM had been repeatedly ignored. “In three years, the board has not met parents. When we raised concerns, they responded with a memo in bold, without explanation. None of the board members has a child or grandchild in this school, so they don’t feel the impact of their decisions,” he said.
Mr. Mburu listed additional grievances including deteriorating infrastructure, poor food quality, and inadequate facilities for junior secondary students. “Some learners eat while holding their plates on their laps due to lack of tables. The computer and science labs are dysfunctional, and extracurricular activities that once defined Parklands Baptist’s excellence have collapsed,” he noted.
Parents are now demanding a forensic audit of the school’s finances for the past three years to determine how funds have been spent before any new increments are implemented. “We have no problem supporting development if we are shown a breakdown of expenses. But as it stands, the figures are arbitrary. Accountability is all we’re asking for,” said Ms. Christine, a parent who has been with the school for seven years.
She described the fee hike as “unjustifiable,” adding that parents received the new structure on October 22, the last day of the term.
“It’s insensitive to impose such an increase at this time. We are not refusing to pay, but we deserve to understand what we are paying for,” she said.
The parents have appealed to the church leadership to intervene, hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM), and reconstitute the board whose term they claim has already lapsed. They also urged the school to establish a functioning PTA to promote dialogue and protect teachers from intimidation.
“Our call is simple halt the fee increment, engage parents, and embrace transparency,” said Mr. Mbaya “We love this school and want it to thrive, but that can only happen if we are treated as partners, not outsiders.”
