"Children are watching and learning... It is unacceptable for someone facing criminal charges to take on this role"
Nonsan Gyeryong Office of Education: "The school conducts background checks... Eligibility cannot be restricted before a final verdict"
The chairperson of the school management committee at an elementary school in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, is facing controversy over ethics after being indicted on charges of unlicensed driving, drunk driving, and hit-and-run.
According to an Asia Economy report on May 2, the Nonsan Gyeryong Office of Education awarded letters of appointment from the superintendent to nine executive members of the Nonsan City School Management Committee Association on April 30.
However, it was revealed that Mr. B, who serves as both the chairperson of the management committee at A Elementary School and as an executive member of the association, is facing charges of unlicensed driving, drunk driving, and hit-and-run.
The school management committee is a central advisory body that deliberates and provides opinions on all aspects of school operations, including curriculum management and budget execution. The chairperson represents the committee, presides over meetings, and acts as a bridge between the school and parents.
Nevertheless, after the chairperson received the letter of appointment despite being indicted for causing social controversy, some parents are protesting the appointment of a person lacking in ethical standards as both chairperson and executive member of the association.
For this reason, while the presumption of innocence should be respected, there are calls for strict ethical screening standards, considering the unique nature of the educational environment and the potential impact on children.
There are also opinions that an institutional mechanism is urgently needed to verify a certain level of morality and trustworthiness when selecting school management committee members.
One parent said, "The chairperson is deeply involved in school policies, budgets, and educational activities that affect children's daily lives. It is unacceptable for someone facing criminal charges to take on this role."
Another parent pointed out, "It is heartbreaking to think about who the adults are that our children are watching and learning from."
In response, an official from the Nonsan Gyeryong Office of Education explained, "While the school conducts background checks, under current laws, we cannot restrict eligibility before a final verdict is reached."
Speaking to Asia Economy by phone, Mr. B stated, "I took on the role because the school asked me to, as there was no one else, but I am sorry."
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