"Please let them do the workbook instead"… Special education teacher's statement prioritizing education and safety, ultimately leads to an apology

The Jeju City Office of Education has issued an official apology regarding inappropriate discriminatory remarks made during a recent meeting for the guardians of special education candidates.

On the 9th, the office stated, "We sincerely apologize for causing discomfort and emotional distress to the guardians of students with special educational needs who are about to enter middle school."

According to the Jeju Branch of the National Parents' Association for the Disabled, during a meeting for guardians of students scheduled to enter middle school in 2026 on the 3rd, teacher A made problematic remarks such as, "There is no teacher in the classroom during break time, so we cannot know if anything happens," and "Even if the child has bruises on their knees, do not ask the school."

Additionally, it was reported that the teacher stated, "Do not ask the child to learn Hangul. There are not enough hours in the Korean language classes to teach Hangul. It would be better to let them do workbooks instead."

Moreover, it was claimed by the organization that on the same day, the teacher asked, "Do I need to strip the child's clothes completely and take a full-body photo in the morning, and then take another full-body photo in the afternoon to confirm that there are no problems?"

In response, the Parents' Association for the Disabled had announced a press conference on the morning of the 9th; however, the education authorities conveyed their intention to apologize the previous day (the 8th) and promised to establish measures to prevent recurrence, leading to the cancellation of the schedule.

Additionally, the parents' side, the Parents' Association for the Disabled, the Provincial Office of Education, and the City Office of Education agreed to conduct two meetings and reschedule the informational session on the 16th, as well as to run a communication council. A meeting with Provincial Education Superintendent Kim Kwang-soo is also scheduled for the 30th.

The City Office of Education explained, "Even during break time, the homeroom teacher from the integrated class, special education teachers, and special education support staff carry out continuous monitoring and observation of the students."

They added, "In light of this incident, we will strive to approach parents with respect and understanding, and we will hold regular councils with parents to strengthen communication regarding special education."

Image Source: Jeju City Office of Education, reference material for understanding the article / gettyimagesbank