UPDATE: DA visits Crystal Park High School after video of the acting principal goes viral
DA said corporal punishment is not allowed.
The DA conducted an oversight visit at Crystal Park High School on March 19 after a video surfaced showing the acting principal hitting learners with a stick.
LISTEN:
Crystal Park High’s acting principal admits he was frustrated, staff do hit learners
DA Gauteng shadow MEC for education Khume Ramulifho, DA constituency head for Benoni Michele Clarke, Ward 24 councillor Kabelo Mahonko and other councillors went to the school.
Ramulifho said they decided to conduct the oversight visit after the video went viral.
“Corporal punishment is not allowed any more,” said Ramulifho.
“We just want to establish how we can assist the school or what type of support we can give if there is a discipline issue there.”
He said they do not want teachers to lose their jobs, which will happen if they administer corporal punishment.
“We normally encourage school principals to [bring in] police to conduct drug searches of the learners or to patrol the school,” said Ramulifho.
Ramulifho added that discipline is not always about punishment. Rather, one can have a conversation with the learners on how best they can assist them.
WATCH:
Benoni acting principal filmed hitting learners
Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said the department is concerned that some educators still administer corporal punishment, which is outlawed.
“The acting principal admitted guilt and disciplinary processes are underway,” said Mabona.
“The department condemns acts of corporal punishment in schools as there are alternative methods of discipline.”
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