The first-year students had primer cards and a reader. The remainder of the students had readers and spellers. When students reached the fourth year they began studying geography, history, and current events.

Among the more successful attempts made to keep the students interested in school, were the weekly spelling or arithmetic “bees”. It was an achieve- ment for the students to win these contests and, as added incentive, a small prize such as a couple of scribblers or pencils was awarded to the winners.

At first the schools were operated only in the winter. Often the teachers would be sea captains, who, not being employed at that time of year, offered their services as teachers.

Later, when the school system became more organized and better sup- ported, the school operated year round with breaks for approximately two weeks in the spring and early fall. These breaks allowed the students to help at home on the farm during the busiest times of the year, planting and harvesting.

Very often, however, because of weather, sickness, or absence of teachers, the schools would be closed. This accounts for the high number of days off’ in some schools.

Classes usually started at nine o’clock. There was a 15-minute recess in the morning and afternoon. An hour was given at noon and classes usually ended about four o’clock.

The equipment used in the classroom was very basic. There was usually a blackboard. However, maps and other extras were a little harder to acquire. Students would use slates and chalk. Later, of course, pencils, pens and scribblers were used. The students bought their own books at the local general store.

The teachers were usually well-respected members of the community. Often, they would spend many extra hours at school, either to prepare older

1951 - Ist: Margaret MacDonald, Stephen MacIntyre, John C. Gallant, George Fraser, Johnny Steele, Inez Brynes. 2nd: Mary MacLellan, Biddy MacIntyre, Kath- erine MacDonald, Betsy MacDonald, Mildred Acorn, Georgina MacIntyre, Mary Mulligan. 3rd: Mary Murphy (teacher), Joe Quinn, Frana (Frank) MacDonald, Ian Scrimgeour, Willard MacKenzie, Joe MacDonald, Charlie MacLellan.

47