Share

Dad reports racism at school

accreditation
After Craig Thiem heard that a teacher at the school his children attended was bullying Grade 6 students with "subtle racism", he took a stand. 

Craig's children attend Wilgehof Primary School in Bloemfontein. He reported the school to the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) after hearing that a particular teacher (who is also a head of department) was being racist towards children in his class.

Not only does this teacher have a full-sized apartheid flag in the front of his classroom, he also told black children that they were baboons and often referred to black people as k****** in class.

The SAHRC said that it would investigate allegations of racism at the school. Spokesman Isaac Mangena said that the commission had conducted an on-site inspection at the school, after Craig's complaint. The history and life sciences teacher has also reportedly been suspended.

I say well done to Mr Thiem! Too long have people tried to ignore racism. More parents should be attentive to what their children may be revealing about their teachers. And even though reporting an incident like this may be uncomfortable, parents have every right to see that their children are in the best environment possible when learning.

Would you report a teacher that was being racist to kids in his class? Even if it meant there would be uncomfortable consequences?
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE