Crisis in Paris Schools Over Allegations of Child Abuse

A 36-year-old former employee, referred to as David G. in the French media, is on trial in Paris for allegedly sexually assaulting eight children. This case brings attention to a crisis in Paris schools where numerous allegations of child abuse have surfaced across approximately 130 educational institutions, including schools, kindergartens, and nurseries.

The French practice of withholding surnames in media reports is being followed for David G., who was suspended and subsequently arrested after parental concerns prompted the school’s director to report him to the authorities. He claimed in court that he should have been more cautious around children, maintaining more distance and limiting physical interactions.

David G. was part of the nonteaching staff at Alphonse Baudin school, a kindergarten located in central Paris. His arrest followed reports of unusual behaviors noticed by parents in their children. Besides the charges concerning minors, he is also accused of harassing two adult colleagues.

This incident is part of a broader issue in the Paris school system, with more than 70 school employees recently facing suspension or termination over similar allegations. The accusations mainly involve nonteaching staff who supervise children during non-classroom times like recess and after-school sessions. This has severely impacted the trust in Parisian schools and poses a significant challenge for the city’s new mayor, Emmanuel Grégoire.

Lawyers Rebecca Royer and Hannah Kopp are representing six families involved, advocating for public access to the trial to highlight the systemic nature of these cases, emphasizing the need for improved child protection measures.

The French Education Ministry recruits teachers, while city authorities appoint individuals responsible for nonteaching duties such as supervising recess, lunch, and after-school activities.