The Leader of the Opposition claimed yesterday that the Minister of Education overstepped her authority by intervening in a school matter that resulted in a teacher being placed on administrative leave.

Ben Smith, the Shadow Minister of Education and Sport, demanded that Crystal Caesar resign over her role in an unspecified student disciplinary case last month at Port Royal Primary School, which led to the administrative leave of a physical education teacher.

The Bermuda Union of Teachers said this week that questions were raised under the Ministerial Code of Conduct after Ms Caesar stepped in when a male pupil was barred from participating in an interschool sports event.

The ministry responded that the minister’s actions were fully compliant with her responsibilities under the Education Act 1996.

The student was initially blocked by teachers from taking part in the two-day Primary School Athletics Championships.

A source familiar with the matter told The Royal Gazette that Ms Caesar, who was contacted by the boy’s parents, responded by ordering staff at the Department of Education to allow the student to take part.

It came after the matter sparked talks between PE teachers and department officials at the venue in the Flora Duffy Stadium. The BUT subsequently complained to the ministry over “serious concerns” over how the matter was handled.

Mr Smith said yesterday: “This is a very dangerous precedent that Ms Caesar is setting. She should have left Port Royal business alone.”

The Smith’s South MP said it was “time for the Minister of Education to resign”, adding: “It is bad enough that teachers and school staff have had to deal with lack of resources, school closures, restructuring and then about-faces — and now receive a resounding message that they cannot take decisions without ministerial interference.”

The ministry stated on Tuesday: “Any suggestion that the minister acted outside of her authority or in breach of the ministerial code of conduct is not accurate.”

Ms Caesar’s actions were said to be consistent with her ministerial oversight and responsibilities.

The Opposition leader countered that her move had left teachers and school staff feeling hamstrung.

He added: “The minister should have never overrode the decision taken by the PE teacher and those who supported his stance.

“What lesson was taught here? How is this character building for the child?

“What happens the next time a decision is taken that the parents do not agree with? Are they going to turn to the minister again?”

The ministry was asked for comment on Mr Smith’s remarks.

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