KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Education and Youth, Fayval Williams has condemned the recent violent attack on a teacher at Vere Technical High School reportedly over a bag.

It is reported that on Wednesday, May 29, a teacher at the Clarendon high school had to seek medical attention after she was assaulted by a parent and a group of students, two of whom are believed to be related.

The confrontation reportedly started after a teacher confiscated the bag of a student who walked out of a teaching session. It is alleged that the student’s parent along with the group of students later visited the staff room on the school compound where they demanded the return of the bag. The teacher who had confiscated the bag was not present at the time, and this reportedly resulted in a physical confrontation with another teacher.

Confirming that the incident involved a teacher and the family of a student, Minister Williams said “We are saddened by this incident on school grounds, where safety is crucial. The ministry remains fully committed to supporting the affected teacher and improving school security.”

She added that a meeting is being scheduled with the Ministry of Education and Youth, Vere Technical High School teachers and the Jamaica Teachers’ Association.

“For months, we have been implementing initiatives and urging parents, guardians and community members to help us curb school violence. It is therefore deeply disheartening to see a parent involved in an act of violence,” Williams said.

The ministry said it continues to encourage collaboration among parents, teachers, students, and community members to combat school violence.