In Bordeaux, the Minister of National Education, Nicole Belloubet, announced the deployment of a national “mobile school force” on the theme of school safety, which will be able to be deployed to schools facing difficulties. This unit aims to reassure teachers and educational teams following recent events that have caused concern within the national education system. Composed of around twenty education agents, this team will be operational starting in 2024 and can be deployed within 48 hours anywhere in the country in case of acute crisis. Its mission will focus on security within the school, calming situations, and education.
Schools already have access to “mobile security teams” established in 2009 under the jurisdiction of local rectors. In response to recent events, including the departure of a school principal in Paris, threatening incidents, and the dissemination of threats of attacks to over 150 establishments, the Minister emphasized the need for the State to seek compensation on behalf of schools. The mobilization of these threats through digital platforms has led to psychological and material damages, prompting the State to intervene and seek redress for these damages on behalf of schools and educators.
Following the departure of the principal of Lycée Maurice-Ravel in Paris after threats, a gathering of people took place in front of the school to show support for the education professionals on the front line. The Syndicat National des Personnels de Direction de l’Education Nationale (SNPDEN-Unsa), expressed concerns about the destabilization of school leaders and the need for protection. Despite challenges, school leaders are committed to carrying out their duties in the face of deliberate attempts to disrupt educational environments and will continue to do so with determination and resilience.
In response to the increasing threats faced by schools, the Minister highlighted the importance of the State’s intervention and legal action on behalf of educational institutions. The announcement in Bordeaux signaled a shift towards a more proactive approach in seeking damages and reparations for schools affected by threats, both physical and digital. The State’s commitment to seeking justice on behalf of schools and educators is a step towards ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.
The creation of a national mobile school force represents a significant step in addressing the concerns raised by recent events and threats faced by educational institutions. By providing additional support and security measures, the government aims to reassure teachers and educational teams while demonstrating a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. The mobilization of resources and the proactive approach towards seeking reparations for damages highlight the government’s determination to address the challenges faced by schools and educators in the current climate of uncertainty and threats.
