Glenmuir defends handling of assault of autistic student by schoolmate

The leadership of Glenmuir High School in Clarendon is dismissing criticisms of how the institution handled the situation of the assault of an autistic student by another at the school.

A video of the incident has recently been making the rounds on social media platforms.

Some persons have accused the school of handling the situation poorly.

A voicenote has also been circulating with an individual claiming that the school's administration has failed to take appropriate action following the incident.

But, Glenmuir has described the criticisms as unfounded, untrue, and malicious, noting that disciplinary and other actions, such as mounting an anti-bullying campaign, have been undertaken.

“We therefore ask persons to restrain their comments on the matter, as it may have legal implications,'' said the school in a statement on Thursday. 

According to the school, the incident involving the two male students took place on January 31, and that the matter was addressed in accordance with its established protocols and regulations, including providing the Ministry of Education with a critical incident report. 

The Ministry of Education has confirmed receipt of the report. 

According to the school, meetings were held with both students' parents to discuss the incident and seek resolution collaboratively, and that the matter was promptly referred to, and deliberated upon by the Board of Management, ensuring that appropriate measures were taken in line with the school's policies and guidelines.

The statement noted that in addition to an anti-bullying campaign, a public apology was offered by the principal at a PTA meeting. 

“We also acknowledge the pain and distress caused to the student and to everyone affected by the very unfortunate incident. We wish to stress that the recent video is not a true reflection of our school, and does not align with our standards. We are committed to learning from this incident, and are taking steps to mitigate against any future occurrences,'' said the school in the statement.

“Glenmuir High reiterates that violence is never an acceptable solution, and we will continue to work towards creating a safe and supportive environment for all our students and staff.”

The school stated that it will refrain from making any additional comments on the matter as it is currently before the courts.

Barrington Richardson, regional director of Region 7 in the Ministry of Education, told The Gleaner that his team was notified about the January 31 incident, and the actions that were being undertaken by the school's administration.

Richardson said, too, that the regional security officer visited the school for follow-up procedures.

He added that the region's guidance and counselling unit will continue to provide support to affected students. 

Richardson has urged students to uphold peace among their peers.

"We encourage our students to be caring towards one another. Where there are disagreements and misunderstandings, always seek to talk it through first and where there is a need for support or a mediator, utilise the persons in the school community such as the student council members, prefects, form teachers, guidance counsellors, deans of discipline and among others," said Richardson.

- Olivia Brown

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