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MARIGOT--President of the Territorial Council Aline Hanson gave her reaction Thursday to the assault on a teacher in the French Quarter primary school on Tuesday around 4:00pm, which led to a brief strike by fellow teachers.
"I would like to share my indignation at the assault of teacher C.P. on Tuesday, September 30, 2014, in a primary school in Quartier d'Orléans," she said. "This teacher was hit in her classroom by a pupil's mother. It is a very serious act for which the aggressor will have much explaining to do before the court.
"The Collectivité condemns the unacceptable attitude of the mother's family and supports the young teacher, who was simply a victim of gratuitous violence. It also supports all teachers and staff of Quartier d'Orléans and other schools of St. Martin, who were shocked by this serious breach of self-control.
"Much is being done to fight against the spiral of violence, but it is some parents who give a bad example. Nevertheless, the participation of parents in the educational success of students is paramount and this kind of violence cannot be tolerated. If the mission of teachers is to educate our children, it is the role of parents to educate them in a calm, non-violent environment, to instil real family values.
"I often insist on this crucial aspect for the success of our youth, because this parental accompaniment is essential in the development of the child. Too many parents forget it, and it is necessary that they be reminded of it.
"Committing a violent act on a person in public service is an offence punishable by law. The Collectivité will not tolerate such behaviour within the walls of the schools, which must remain a sanctuary for children and also for teachers and staff. Those who do not respect this fundamental rule will face harsh consequences."
