An unruly student who threatened to kill a teacher has been permanently removed from CedarBridge Academy after school staff refused to teach him.

The move was made following consultations between teachers, the boy’s parents, and Dr Edmond Heatley, the Commissioner of Education.

Teachers had halted classes on Monday following the pupil’s reinstatement, and Dr Heatley met with them yesterday to try and solve the dispute.

“The Commissioner of Education, Dr Edmond Heatley, has been in constant communication on this issue and met again today [Tuesday] with the teachers and principal at CedarBridge Academy to discuss the events that unfolded yesterday [Monday] at the school,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Education and Economic Development.

“There was a previous incident where a student exhibited threatening behaviour towards a teacher. The Commissioner met with the student and the student’s family shortly after that incident. It was agreed that the student be allowed to return to CBA after a Behaviour Contract was signed by the student, the student’s parents, staff and the principal. Also, specific conduct interventions have been put in place at the school.

“The Commissioner met again with the student and the student’s family today. At this meeting, the Commissioner, the student and the student’s family agreed upon a solution that serves the best interests of the student and the school. The Commissioner then advised the school staff and principal of that solution. For clarity, the solution does not involve the student’s ongoing attendance at CedarBridge.

“The Department of Education takes this opportunity to reiterate its zero tolerance policy for antisocial behaviour and threats against teachers, staff or other students. We view matters such as this very seriously and have the necessary steps in place to take immediate action if needed.”

The Royal Gazette understands that teachers had threatened to take further action unless Dr Heatley reconsidered his initial decision to allow the student to return to class.

Last night news of Dr Heatley’s decision was welcomed by staff, who said they considered the matter closed.

“There will be no further action unless he [Dr Heatley] insists that the student is returned to CBA,” one staff member, who asked not to be named, said.

“I think the Commissioner saw today that we will not be treated with disrespect.”