Protecting Teachers from Unreasonable Demands and Harassment by Parents

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Lim Biow Chuan, Mountbatten

Question

To ask the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry has any new plans to further build trust between parents and teachers regarding children's education; and (b) what additional measures are being considered to protect teachers from harassment by parents with unreasonable demands.

Response

1. A strong and positive partnership between parents and teachers is important for children to learn and develop. This year, the Ministry of Education (MOE) and its national advisory council on partnership, COMPASS (COMunity and PArents in Support of Schools) refreshed the Guidelines for School-Home Partnership after consultation with parents and teachers. These guidelines focus on key aspects where schools and parents can work together to nurture our children – notably, parents and teachers should communicate respectfully with each other, be good role models to our children, and support our children to develop strong relationships and healthy habits in this digital age. MOE and COMPASS will work with schools and Parent Support Groups to raise awareness and support for these guidelines.

2. MOE values our teachers and their well-being. While most parents appreciate and partner well with our teachers, there is a small number of parents who engage in unreasonable behaviour towards teachers. The new Engagement Charter makes it clear that firm action will be taken against such individuals. This includes warnings to the individual to desist such behaviour and disengaging the individual. Where staff are harassed or their safety is threatened, measures to be taken include calling the Police for assistance. For the most egregious cases, legal action will be taken, including under the Protection from Harassment Act.