THE Nanshan District Education Bureau recently responded that there is no discrimination against the children of single parents when applying for a school seat under the point-collection rule, the Shenzhen Special Zone Daily reported.

Some parents in Nanshan said that their children had been allocated to schools in other districts because their single-parent families are not able to offer the residence permits of two parents.

According to the district’s rule, children with a registered Shenzhen residence can record 20 to 30 points when applying for a school seat while those with a residence registered outside Shenzhen can get 20 points, either when one of their parents holds a Shenzhen hukou and the other has a residence permit, or when one parent is enjoying the city’s preferential policies.

These kids can also gain 18 points if both parents have a residence permit. However, if only one parent has a residence permit, they won’t get any points.

The reporter with the Daily contacted the district education bureau. Staff there suggested that any family that can provide only one parent’s residence permit, whether single-parent or not, will not be able to get points for their children. However, in special situations, like the death of a spouse, a family can provide the relevant materials to get points.

“There is no discrimination. Parents with questions can make consultations at the administrative service hall,” said a staffer.

(Wang Jingli)