The Maurice-Ravel school complex in Paris was shaken by the sudden resignation of its principal on March 22, 2018. The principal had been receiving death threats following an altercation with a student regarding the wearing of a veil. In response to the threats, the principal decided to leave his position for his safety and that of the establishment. The rectorate of Paris announced that the principal, who was nearing retirement, was granted an early departure in collaboration with the Paris academic authorities. A new principal was appointed to fill the position on an interim basis.
Many in the school community were surprised by the sudden announcement of the principal’s resignation. The incident that led to the threats occurred when the principal reminded three students of their obligation to remove their veils according to the 2004 law prohibiting religious symbols in schools. One student, who was of legal age and attending a vocational school, refused to comply, leading to an altercation with the principal. The student claimed to have been “assaulted” and filed a complaint, which was ultimately dismissed by the authorities. The principal and the rectorate denied any violence in the incident. The state announced its intention to file a complaint against the student for false accusations.
The principal also filed a complaint for intimidation against a public servant. Following the online death threats, an investigation was launched by the Paris prosecutor’s office, resulting in the arrest of a 26-year-old man from Hauts-de-Seine who will face trial on April 23 in Paris. The teachers at Maurice-Ravel school are deeply concerned, especially as the reasons given by the rectorate for the principal’s departure were vague, citing “personal convenience.” This has led to further uncertainty and unease among the staff, who feel that the situation is not being fully disclosed to them.
The teachers, who wish to demonstrate their support for the former principal, plan to gather in protest on Thursday morning. The safety of the principal and the school’s staff has become a renewed concern following his resignation. The events have reignited tensions within the school community, with many feeling that the situation has not been handled transparently. The uncertainty surrounding the principal’s departure has further fueled anxieties about the safety and security of the school environment. The teachers are looking for clarity and resolution as they navigate this challenging situation.
