Concerned Parents Launch Online Petition
[Updated] A group of concerned parents has launched a petition calling on all Bermudians to sign, stating that they ”believe principals and teachers should have the freedom to reasonably impose consequences on our children, such as the loss of privileges, without interference from the Minister of Education, by overturning disciplinary actions.”
A spokesperson said, “A group of concerned parents has launched a petition asking all Bermuda citizens to sign. The petition is supported by parents, grandparents, teachers of the public and private sectors, including sports entities, PTA presidents, PTA executive members, and the wider community.”
The Petition states: “We believe principals and teachers should have the freedom to reasonably impose consequences on our children, such as the loss of privileges, without interference from the Minister of Education, by overturning disciplinary actions. This was the case in April 2026 involving Port Royal Primary School, resulting in the PE/Health Teacher being placed on administrative leave for attempting to uphold consequences for disruptive behavior. We believe that holding children accountable for their actions is a restorative practice that helps improve their behavior and keeps our classrooms safe and conducive to learning.”
The spokesperson said, “Teachers and parents, as well as the BUT, oppose the removal of the PE teacher and the precedent it sets, which ties the hands of principals and teachers and prevents them from holding our children accountable for disruptive behavior.
“They further state that the recent incident involving Port Royal Primary School sets a precedent for the Minister to override school discipline decisions that undermine principals and teachers. ‘We demand the immediate reinstatement of their PE/Health teacher by Friday, May 15, 2026, and an assurance that such interference will not recur. Failure to meet these requirements will result in further action.’
“They take the stand that the petition is not only to restore the PE/Health teacher and to support the right of principals and teachers to hold students accountable without fear of administrative action, but also to ensure that children learn responsibility through appropriate consequences, a principle that has shaped productive citizens for generations. ‘Together, we can ensure accountability for disruptive behavior, which helps keep our classrooms safe and conducive to learning.’
“They invite everyone to sign to show support for current teachers and principals, and for children of future generations to learn through accountability for their actions.
“Visit https://c.org/gjf2cLBMHb or use QR Code to sign:
Update: A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Education is aware of a petition circulating regarding the reinstatement of a teacher on leave. A Ministry spokesperson stated today that any suggestion that the Minister acted outside of her authority, or improperly, is false.
“Under the Education Act 1996, the Minister has a responsibility to ensure that Bermuda’s public education system is operating fairly, properly, and in the best interests of students.
“That includes asking questions and reviewing matters when concerns are raised about student wellbeing, school discipline, or whether established procedures were followed.”
The spokesperson continued: “At no point has the Minister suggested that teachers should not be fully supported in maintaining discipline or carrying out their professional responsibilities.
“On the contrary, teachers must be empowered and supported to manage their classrooms effectively and to uphold standards of behaviour that foster safe, respectful, and productive learning environments.
“At the same time, discipline must remain appropriate, proportionate, and aligned with the Code of Conduct, which promotes a positive and restorative approach.
“Discipline should be viewed as a teachable moment, using incremental interventions to address inappropriate behaviour, promote accountability, and support meaningful behavioural change.”
The spokesperson reiterated that teachers deserve support and respect in fulfilling their duties, just as students and parents deserve fairness, care, and protection.
“These principles are not in conflict; they are complementary and essential to a strong and effective education system,” they emphasised.
Minister Caesar stated: “No Minister can ignore concerns involving the well-being or treatment of a child and pretend it is someone else’s responsibility. The role requires good governance and accountability, upheld by legislation.
“When concerns are brought forward, the Minister has a duty to seek information, review what took place, and ensure that decisions were handled fairly and appropriately. That is not interference. That is part of the Minister’s job.
“It is disappointing that a sensitive matter involving a child and a staffing issue has been politicised publicly.
“The Ministry will not discuss individual students, staff members, or confidential human resource matters, because protecting privacy and respecting due process are responsibilities the Ministry takes seriously.”
The spokesperson said, “The Ministry can confirm that:
- The relevant matters are under active review.
- Established procedures are being followed; and
- The Ministry remains engaged with the appropriate parties.
“The Ministry of Education and the Minister will continue focusing on supporting teachers, protecting students, and ensuring Bermuda’s public education system operates fairly, responsibly, and with accountability for all.”
Read More About
Category: All
