OUTRAGED and concerned parents gathered outside Pitlochry School on Tuesday morning following disturbing allegations of an educator who sent a sexually inappropriate message to a minor.

The parents requested the immediate suspension of the educator pending an investigation as well as deployment of a psychologist to educate learners about grooming, predatory behaviour, and safe reporting mechanisms.

A parent with two children at the school, Veran Jankee, said these allegations are disturbing.

“The parents’ fury is that they expected to hear about these allegations from the school, not on public platforms.”

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According to Jankee, it is alleged that the inappropriate messages were sent by the educator via Tiktok during school holidays to the Grade Seven learner.

“The matter was reported by the child’s mother and there are ongoing investigations. The teacher was removed from teaching children but could not be removed from the school as the school was waiting for the department’s outcome on the investigation.”

The parent added that a police case has been opened.

In a letter that was sent to the parents, among other things, it read, “As the school we have been handling this matter in conjunction with the circuit manager from the department of education as well as other bodies, in a confidential manner and according to the protocols of the department of education, in order to protect the learner and our other learners.

“The full SGB has been on this tirelessly from the time it was brought to our attention, however there are parents who feel that the matter was not being dealt with urgently enough and needed other interventions.

“The safety of all Pitlochry learners was our number one priority from the start.”

Unacceptable behaviour

KZN Department of Education spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi said the department is disappointed to have such a character teaching learners.

“The matter was reported to the school principal on April 5 and same day to the circuit manager who then instituted the investigation. The findings and the recommendations are now at the desk of the head of the department to apply his mind and take appropriate actions. I can tell you that the department seriously frowns at such behaviour,” said Mahlambi.

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DA PR ward councillor Smoh Xulu said she is deeply concerned about the serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors against the teacher.

“The community’s distress is compounded by reports that this teacher has allegedly exhibited similar concerning behavior at three previous schools, yet has been repeatedly transferred rather than appropriately investigated.

“The safety and well-being of our children must always be our highest priority. The protests witnessed today demonstrate the community’s legitimate demand for immediate action.”

Xulu said they will be writing to the Provincial Education Department requesting an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations.

“We will also request appropriate interim measures to ensure student safety while the investigation proceeds. I stand with our concerned parents and promise to pursue this matter at all levels of government until appropriate action is taken.”

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