after seeing hundreds of student records, textbooks, and literary classics blowing in the wind.

Textbooks on English language, literature, speech, and student records dating back to the 1960s were scattered on the balcony of one of Devonshire Academy's dilapidated two-storey buildings.

Several copies of Barry Hines' classic "Kes'', hardback copies of Ian Serraillier's "The Enchanted Island'' and Honore Morrow's "The Splendid Journey'' were also among the discarded materials.

And in cardboard boxes dampened by rain, laid books on Greek mythology and students' examination records.

The records belonged to students who attended the school when it was Prospect Secondary School for Girls.

Many of the records and books were still in good condition.

"They could have sent a memo to schools and parents and asked if they wished to have them,'' said one resident who did not want to be identified.

"English textbooks and subjects like that never grow old.

"There are classics up there like the story of Jane Eyre and Tom Sawyer.

"With Government saying it has no money to waste and with so many taxes to pay, I think this is a crime and a shame. Something should be done.'' Concerning the student records, the resident said: "It seems somebody, especially the department, should keep those records or put them on microfilm at the Bermuda Archives. Some of those students are now notable people in the community''.

Another resident added: "This is ridiculous when teachers are in need of books, especially English and history books.'' When contacted last night, Education Minister the Hon. Clarence Terceira said the matter was brought to the Ministry's attention several months ago and he "thought it was cleared up months ago''.

He noted that it was suggested that the books, which were "outdated inventory'', should be sent to the West Indies. "Whoever was in charge then said it was not feasible so they (the books) were left there,'' Dr. Terceira said.

But he added that he knew nothing about the student records and he referred The Royal Gazette to former Education Minister the Hon. Gerald Simons or acting Permanent Secretary Mr. Robert Horton.

Mr. Simons could not be reached for comment.

But Mr. Horton, who is also senior education officer of finance, administration and personnel, said he was under the impression that all of the textbooks that were in useful and in good condition were removed and sent to schools.

He said he understood that schools were also invited to sift through the remaining materials.

However, Mr. Horton said he could not account for the old school records.

He said he and the senior education officer in charge of curriculum, Dr.

Joseph Christopher, would look into the matter immediately.

"If there is anything that can be salvaged, we will make sure that it is,'' Mr. Horton stressed, thanking The Gazette for bringing it to his attention.

"We certainly will look into this matter first thing in the morning.'' WHAT A WASTE! -- Hundreds of old, discarded school textbooks lie scattered on the balcony of one of the former Devonshire Academy buildings at Prospect.