Teacher’s misconduct with female students fall on deaf ears
Reports have emerged from Buriram province, involving allegations against a male teacher accused of inappropriate behaviour towards multiple fourth-grade female students. Parents lodged a complaint, alleging that the teacher engaged in misconduct when students made mistakes in their homework.
The series of incidents came to light after a social media post highlighted the situation, stating that the matter had been kept quiet and urging concerned parties to investigate. It was reported that the parents of these children came together to file a complaint at a local police station.
However, the investigation reportedly shifted towards mediation, with both parties being called to resolve the issue, allegedly by compensating the affected families.
The handling of the case has drawn significant public criticism, especially regarding the police’s decision to pursue mediation in a case involving minors under 13 years old. Such an approach raises concerns about the potential for repeated offences if not properly addressed.
Further investigation led to interviews with some parents of the affected students. Three parents, identified with pseudonyms, shared their experiences. Including 47 year old Kai, mother of a 10 year old girl; 31 year old Nok, mother of another 10 year old girl; and 32 year old Aoi, mother of a third 10 year old girl. They reported the incidents to Udonsak, a deputy inspector at Prakhon Chai Police Station in Buriram.
These incidents allegedly took place during the first semester. Specific allegations include the teacher using his hands to remove a student’s sweatpants and, on another occasion, lifting a student’s skirt.
Not a first rodeo
More disturbingly, there were claims of the teacher instructing male students to place grass in a female student’s mouth. On November 26, further incidents were reported, including inappropriate contact and attempts to isolate a student in a private room.
Despite these grave allegations, the complaints didn’t result in significant disciplinary actions but were subject to discussions and negotiations. The teacher in question is reportedly a subordinate of the school principal, which has raised further concerns about the handling of the case.
Upon visiting the school, a reporter spoke with Samran, the school principal. Samran stated that the school was made aware of the allegations on December 6. According to Samran, they conducted an initial inquiry with the students, which led to discussions with the parents.
The school communicated to the educational district and reassured the parents that actions had been taken, including removing the teacher from the school premises.
Samran commented on the teacher, referring to him as a quiet and diligent individual, popular with students, and suggested that the incidents may have been playful interactions.
“The teacher is a kind person, and students often play around with him. The act of lifting skirts or sweatpants might have been part of these playful moments.”
However, he acknowledged that such actions are inappropriate, regardless of intent.
The principal reiterated that the interactions were not conducted secretly; rather, they occurred in class environments, suggesting transparency. Despite defending the teacher’s character, Samran confirmed that investigations to uncover the full truth were ongoing, reported KhaoSod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why might mediation be considered an inadequate response in cases involving allegations of misconduct towards minors?
Mediation may fail to deliver justice, allowing potential repeated offences and undermining victims’ trust in protective institutions.
How could the teacher’s relationship with the school principal affect the handling of the allegations?
The teacher’s close ties to the principal may influence impartiality, potentially leading to biased decision-making and inadequate responses.
What if similar allegations arise in other schools? How can educational institutions better protect students?
Implementing stringent policies, clear reporting mechanisms, and independent investigations can enhance student safety and accountability.
How might cultural perceptions of ‘playful interactions’ impact the interpretation of misconduct allegations?
Cultural norms might downplay harmful behaviours as benign, hindering recognition and appropriate response to genuine misconduct.
What are the potential long-term effects on students involved in unresolved misconduct cases?
Unresolved cases can lead to psychological trauma, erode trust in authority, and impact academic and social development.
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