Apologies from Kennemer College to teaching assistant
The school board of the Kennemerland Secondary Education Foundation (SVOK) has apologized to the technical teaching assistant Gerrit Keeman. He had been 'exempt from work' since January 16 after grabbing a cheeky apprentice by the scruff of the neck. A video of the incident went viral.
Picture: Type tank
The school, the Kennemer College Beroepsgericht, published yesterday afternoon after a conversation with Keeman a joint message on the website.
The purpose of Keeman's exemption was to give him a rest. However, the teaching assistant herself felt it was a suspension and a lack of confidence. "The management of the school naturally regrets this and apologizes for the way in which this happened," the school writes.
Statements of support
Last week, a video of the incident appeared on the website Dumpert, which was subsequently picked up nationwide. In the video, a student can be seen arguing with Keeman and throwing a crutch at him. The teaching assistant grabs the student by the scruff of the neck. Keeman received messages of support from all over the country. A petition was set up that was signed thousands of times and people showed their support for the teaching assistant. The responses showed that many people did not understand that the teaching assistant was sent home.
The school only responded to its website and stated that it was behind the steps taken that week, but announced also a conversation with Keeman.
Safety
After the conversation yesterday between the school, Keeman and a confidant, the school apologizes. The school board has announced that action will be taken in the near future to improve safety. The suspension policy, the use of mobile phones and the support of employees are also examined.
