Premier Srinagar school reports staff intimidation; parents denounce threats, stand by school

18 August 2024

Srinagar, Aug 18: One of Srinagar’s premier and oldest schools – Tyndale-Biscoe & Mallinson School – have reported cases of harassment and intimidation of its staff by certain parents and has issued a notice seeking constructive dialogue and resolution of issues.

While emphasising the school management’s zero-tolerance policy towards any form of intimidation or harassment directed at its staff members, a large section of parents of students at Tyndale-Biscoe & Mallinson School have joined the school management in condemning the threats and intimidation reported against some of the school’s staff members. A group of parents, who are convening themselves as ‘concerned parents group’ while reaching out to Ziraat Times, have expressed the desire to maintain a respectful and supportive atmosphere within the school for children’s and teachers’ wellbeing.

“We stand by the school management and are willing to work with it to ensure that no culture of harassment and intimidation exists in the school and that any issues of concern to any individual parents are addressed amicably”, said Nusrat Jan, a parent.

The parents have gone further and have proposed to create School Management-Parent Feedback Committees and have expressed displeasure at way school issues are unnecessarily raked up in public.

“We are aware school managements are, sometimes, overwhelmed by certain demands from certain parents which are not practically feasible. However, such committees, composed of responsible and positivity-oriented parents, and the school management could have written terms of reference, which should cover areas like school academic quality, child co-curricular and development activities, safeguarding and protection issues”, said Shazia Iqbal, another parent.

Some other parents who spoke on this matter to Ziraat Times said such committees should also aim to facilitate a structured platform for mutual feedback, allowing both parents and the school management to discuss and address issues of concern in a constructive manner.

“Such initiatives are critical in promoting a positive environment where both school management and parents can work together for the holistic development and well-being of the students. As alumni of this school we love this school and wish it to always embody the values and principles its founders have exemplified”, said Arshad Nadeem.

By creating a forum for regular dialogue, these committees could help to ensure that any issues are resolved before they escalate, promoting a culture of transparency and cooperation, said another parent, requesting not to be named.

A recent situation at Tyndale-Biscoe & Mallinson School has evoked concern among many parents who believe that an approach of engagement is necessary in addressing issues related to school students’ well-being and also to ensure that the educational experience at the school remains positive and enriching for all students.

The parents have assured their full cooperation to the school management in resolving such matters.