Mpumalanga education department officials will today update concerned parents on its investigation into allegations of racism at Reynopark High School in Witbank.
This follows a complaint made by Busisiwe Mokoena, whose daughter was allegedly assaulted by the principal’s wife, a Grade 12 teacher.
Mokoena and her 17-year-old daughter this week opened cases against the teacher, the principal and the head of grade.
In a twist of events, the principal's wife this week laid a counter assault charge against the Grade 11 pupil, who she claims assaulted her last Thursday.
A further charge of crimen injuria was laid against the grade head, who allegedly insulted Mokoena and called her “baboon” when she confronted the school following her daughter’s alleged assault.
As if that was not enough, Witbank police yesterday said a charge of intimidation was laid against the head of grade after he allegedly threatened a Witbank News journalist on Tuesday.
“It is alleged that McKenzie arrived at the [Witbank News] offices at approximately 4pm screaming that everything on the website was a lie. He then told the journalist that she must look over her shoulder as he knew where she lived,” said Witbank police spokesman Captain Eddie Hall.
Education spokesman Jasper Zwane said the department put together an investigation team, which is working closely with the parents and pupils.
On Monday, The Times reported that children at the school claimed teachers regularly called them names, including k*****, bitch, slut, prostitute and baboon.
Mokoena said she also lodged a complaint with the SA Human Rights Commission and hopes the staff at her daughter’s school will be brought to book.
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