By Sue-Ann Wayow
GUNSHOTS ran out on Monday outside a primary school causing children to hide for safety in their classroom.
In a social media video, a teacher could be heard instructing the children to lie on the floor of the Rose Hill Roman Catholic Primary School, East Dry River.
The teacher could be heard saying “Down! Down!” to the children who had to lie on the floor as the sounds could be heard.
Many who commented on the post expressed shock that the children were exposed to gun violence.
Minister of Education Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly told AZP News that she was aware of the unfortunate situation.
She said the ministry has been in communication with both school officials and the Catholic Education Board.
For the rest of this week, teachers will utilise virtual platforms for teaching, and the Student Support Services Division had planned virtual counselling sessions with students, school personnel, and parents, which began on Wednesday.
Dr Gadsby-Dolly said, “I have spoken to the Commissioner of Police about the situation, as it is not only this school which has this type of issue affecting students, teachers and school operations.
“The Commissioner is currently having internal discussions and will revert today with the TTPS’ recommendations for ensuring the safety of all school personnel during school hours; not for this school only, but for a few others which are similarly affected.
“School relocation has been raised as a solution, and that option is also being evaluated, though no final decision on relocation has been made at this time.”
The Education Minister said the focus remains, especially during the rest of this week, on meeting the emotional needs of the staff and students who underwent the traumatic experience and a decision will be made later this week on the school’s operations.
