A group of outraged parents gathered outside Eastville Primary School on Monday morning, demanding answers after allegations surfaced that a School Governing Body (SGB) member had allegedly exposed herself to learners and made inappropriate remarks about their private parts.

The SGB member, who also volunteers at the school, is accused of teaching learners a sexually explicit song, and speaking openly about her intimate relationship with her husband.

Parents say they are heartbroken and furious, claiming that their repeated pleas for action have been ignored by the school’s management.

One concerned grandmother, whose grandchildren attend the school, says the community has lost faith in those meant to protect their children.

“We are here today because we are dissatisfied with what is happening at the school. Our children are being touched inappropriately and spoken to in a degrading manner. The fact that the principal tells us this matter is not important does not sit well with us. We are deeply concerned and have every right to demand answers.”

Another parent, who asked to remain anonymous to protect her son, described how her child confided in her after a distressing experience involving the accused SGB member.

“My child came to me on Thursday and told me that his teacher touched him and it didn’t feel right. He was terrified because she told him that if he spoke out, there would be consequences, and no one would believe him. He said she touched him in front of the entire class. When I went to the school to speak to the principal, they refused to engage with me.”

Parents say they feel abandoned and frustrated, accusing the school of failing to take swift action to protect learners.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has confirmed that an investigation is underway. WCED spokesperson Millicent Merton said the department takes the allegations seriously.

“A complaint about an SGB member who also volunteers at the school has been reported and is being investigated. These allegations are very concerning, and counselling support will be made available to any affected learners.”

Police spokesperson FC Van Wyk says the case was reported and investigations are underway.

“Mitchell’s Plain SAPS registered a crimen injuria case for investigation involving an incident involving a school teacher at a primary school in Mitchell’s Plain.  The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and no arrests have been made yet.”