The parent of a Sunnyridge Primary School learner recently shared their concern over an ongoing issue at the school which the principal, Marianna Odendaal, was allegedly ‘sweeping under the rug’.
It is alleged that a 14-year-old learner, with four assault cases against him, was harassing learners and beating teachers up and promising that he would call his father to beat everyone up even more whenever they tried to discipline him.
As a result of his violent behaviour, a few teachers have apparently handed in their resignations.
When we requested comment from the school Odendaal said she could not comment on the issue.
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The GCN then contacted the Department of Education for comment and Ouma Mzimela, the Gauteng Department of Education cluster leader, responded and said, “This 14-year-old learner has had numerous disciplinary hearings at the school and he was referred to attend a diversion programme at the National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Reintegration of Offenders (Nicro), which he did not attend as the mother said the Nicro he was sent to had been closed upon their arrival.
“He has been found in possession of dagga.
“In 2017 a team from our head office visited the school regarding this learner as he seriously disrupts and threatens teaching and learning at the school.
“He has thrown an object at an educator and this year he has already had two disciplinary hearings and the mother feels that her child is being harassed.”
“The principal is compiling a submission to the head of the Gauteng Department of Education for expulsion.”
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