Dad threatens to sue school
2003-03-27 09:50
Pretoria - A well-know Afrikaans boys school could be facing legal action by a parent who wants to "prevent illegal disciplinary action being taken against my son".
Johan Bosch, father of Grade 9 pupil, Aldwin, wants the education department to investigate complaints against his son at the Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool as teachers appear to be "prejudiced and act inconsistently".
Bosch is outraged after his son was suspended for a week last month.
The suspension came after Aldwin retaliated against another pupil, who apparently threw a piece of glass at him, by throwing a piece of glass as well. The boy laid a charge against him.
Bosch maintains correct procedures were not followed. The decision was not taken by the governing body and his son did not receive a hearing.
Bosch also alleges Aldwin was falsely accused by a teacher earlier, which traumatised him. She apparently told his classmates in his absence that he was a rebel and should be avoided.
Wants to ensure transparency
Aldwin reportedly was illegally suspended for two weeks after an incident last year.
Bosch believes there is a vendetta against his son: "He has suffered irreparable emotional damage".
Bosch says he is not acting merely to save Aldwin's school career, but also to try and ensure that future disciplinary action is transparent and unprejudiced.
Ben Laubscher, a member of the governing body, said correct procedures had been followed throughout.
Aldwin is expected to appear before a disciplinary hearing when school re-opens.
South Tshwane education department's district senior manager, Timothy Makofane, said on Wednesday the department would investigate allegations against the school.