Starting today, a new law empowers schools to prohibit parents from entering school premises for up to six months, along with imposing substantial fines. This move is a response to increasing instances of violence, threats, and online harassment directed at school staff.
Over the past five years, the number of parental bans issued by schools in the state has surged by 200%, reflecting a troubling rise in abusive behavior that principals are striving to manage.
“Sometimes, it’s a necessary step,” shared Russell Barwell, the principal of North Prospect Primary. “It helps us address the issue without the influence of heightened emotions.”
Statistics reveal a significant increase in formal warnings sent to parents by public schools, with 206 letters dispatched this year compared to just 61 five years ago. Additionally, 107 barring notices have been issued within the same period.
“We’ve faced assaults and even stalking of our members,” noted Tobiahs O’Connor, president of the South Australian Primary Principals Association.
“Assault… we’ve had members stalked,” South Australian Primary Principals Association president Tobiahs O’Connor said.
“We’ve had a whole range of things that just make your skin crawl.”
The new laws extend the maximum ban period from three to six months and also cover online abuse in addition to verbal and physical threats.
Parents and carers have been found to be the top source of bullying, slander and sexual harassment for principals to deal with. Education Minister Blair Boyer said the new laws are critical to spark change.
“We had to send a message to adults out there that are exhibiting this totally unacceptable behaviour,” Education Minister Blair Boyer said.
Recourse action for parents remains the same, with appeals dealt with by the minister.
