A silent demonstration unfolded outside Look Out Primary School in Montserrat on April 29, as several teachers gathered to highlight their grievances regarding working conditions.
Nine educators held up vividly colored signs, each detailing concerns ranging from what they described as a “toxic” work environment to stress, manipulation, and victimization. Additionally, they called for the reintroduction of physical education into the school curriculum and emphasised the importance of child safeguarding measures.
Fiona Meade, President of Look Out Primary School’s Parent-Teacher Association, joined the teachers in solidarity, speaking on their behalf. “I came to show them my support because we need teachers – if we don’t have the teachers, how will the children learn?” she remarked.
One of the primary concerns raised was a breakdown in communication, with teachers feeling excluded from decision-making processes and left uninformed about important issues affecting both staff and students. The unilateral removal of physical education from the curriculum without prior consultation was a particularly contentious point.
Accusations of “arrogant” leadership were also aired, with allegations of disrespectful behavior from the headteacher, Michael Esdale, a St. Kitts and Nevis national.
The demonstration underscored a broader call for a more respectful and inclusive educational environment. “Teachers need to have a voice, teachers need to be respected,” Meade affirmed, urging continued advocacy for improved working conditions within the school.
Furthermore, allegations of physical abuse surfaced during the protest, with one teacher recounting witnessing the headteacher, Michael Esdale, allegedly dragging and pushing students and subjecting them to punishment involving kneeling on hard tiles with weights in hand. Such actions were described as “abuse” by the PTA president, adding urgency to the demands for change within the school’s leadership.
The silent protest served as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing the concerns of educators in ensuring a nurturing and supportive learning environment for all students.
