Michael Nkalane
PARENTS at the New Eisleben High School in Crossroads blocked the school entrance yesterday, preventing principal Votile Mazimela from returning.
He had been working for three months at the provincial Education Department’s district office because of tension at the school.
Mazimela was sent to the district office in March after teachers complained they were victimised because they protested against the way he treated them, Grade 8-10 teacher Vuyokazi Ntinga said.
About 20 parents blockaded the school gate yesterday, vowing Mazimela would not be allowed back as principal.
Mazimela refused to comment.
School governing body member Philiswa Msuthwana alleged that Mazimela did not consult on decisions affecting the school.
“There is a shortage of chairs forcing pupils to stand because earlier this year he gave chairs to neighbouring schools without consulting,” she said.
A parent, Nandi Jim, said some parents had paid R450 for school blazers since 2014, but pupils still haven't received them.
Another parent, Khayalethu Pikini, said: “We don’t want him here. He runs the school as his shebeen.”
Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Paddy Attwell said the district office was investigating allegations and counter-allegations, and has not yet completed its report.
“Our district officials are working closely with the school to resolve tensions.
"The principal is working from our district office because of the tensions at the school.”
Attwell said the district was providing support to build relationships and provide training on key aspects of school management and governance.