The Department of Education and Digital Transformation is investigating an incident at a city school in which a Grade Two student was reportedly struck by a teacher and sustained an injury to his nose, according to a statement issued on Friday.
The matter has sparked concern following complaints from the child’s mother, who has raised the issue with both school officials and the Department. She is said to be dissatisfied with the initial responses.
The incident is reported to have occurred on Friday, May 8, with the mother engaging school authorities on Monday, May 11.
St Lucia Times was reliably informed that tensions have emerged in the community where the student resides, with reports of threats directed at the teacher and school officials, prompting the school in question to remain closed Friday.
In a statement, the Department of Education says “it is aware of a recent incident involving a teacher and a student at one of our educational institutions.”
It said the well-being of students remains its highest priority and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining trust in the education system.
“Upon notification of the incident, the school administration initiated standard protocols, including facilitating medical evaluation for the student. Initial reports indicate that the student was not seriously injured,” the Department said.
It added that a thorough investigation is underway and the Department has convened preliminary meetings with the parties concerned to ensure that this matter is resolved with the care and seriousness it deserves.
The Department states further that it remains committed to the physical and psychological well-being of all students and does not condone any form of corporal punishment.
Corporal punishment was abolished in schools in Saint Lucia from May 1, 2020.
The Department of Education says that it is cognisant of the concerns of parents and the community, but urges the public to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims or threats against principals, teachers and other school personnel.
“Such actions can compromise the integrity of the investigation and the privacy rights of those involved,” it warns.
Parents and guardians were reminded that the official grievance procedure should be followed when raising school-related concerns, beginning with the principal, and escalating to the District Education Officer and Chief Education Officer if necessary.
“Our school must remain safe spaces for principals, teachers, students and ancillary staff alike. We appeal to all stakeholders to allow the investigation process to conclude without interference,” the statement signed by the Chief Education Officer Beverly Dieudionne says.
The Department ended its statement by saying that it remains dedicated to transparency, accountability, professionalism and the protection of the rights and dignity of all individuals involved.
