The principal of the XII Gymnasium in Zagreb, Jadranka Vlahovec, shut off the water supply to the school to prevent graduates from using water pistols and disrupting classes. A math teacher, who is the class advisor for the graduates, was given a warning with a threat of dismissal due to alleged inappropriate behavior of the graduates and disruption of classes. The teacher denies the accusations, stating she did not encourage inappropriate behavior and did not receive clear instructions from the principal. The situation caused dissatisfaction among teachers, parents, and students, with several school staff and parents filing complaints to the education inspectorate requesting action against the principal for shutting off the water and other irregularities. The principal claims the teacher was warned about inappropriate behavior and that it is the class advisor’s duty to sanction students. Four teachers support their colleague and criticize the principal’s leadership style. This case has sparked a broader discussion about school management and the rights of students and teachers.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the rights of students and teachers, criticizing the principal’s authoritarian approach, such as shutting off water and issuing a dismissal warning without clear communication. They highlight the solidarity among teachers and the concerns of parents about the principal’s management style and potential abuse of power.
Center: Center-leaning sources report the facts of the incident, presenting both the principal’s and the teacher’s perspectives. They focus on the procedural aspects, the school’s disciplinary measures, and the ongoing investigation by the education inspectorate, aiming for a balanced view without strong bias.
Right: Right-leaning media tend to emphasize the need for discipline and order in schools, supporting the principal’s actions to maintain school rules and prevent disruptions. They may frame the teacher’s resistance as undermining authority and stress the importance of upholding school regulations to ensure a proper learning environment.
