Assaults against teachers on the rise

Instances where students threaten or assault their teachers are increasing, according to Eiríkur Jónsson, chairman of the Icelandic Teachers’ Union. This happens frequently when teachers try to separate students during fights, and in such cases the teachers are often at risk of being charged. The responses on behalf of the schools vary, according to Jónsson; student assault cases are difficult and students can be expelled on a temporary basis only. Many teachers are unhappy in their jobs as they consider measures for dealing with offenders unsatisfactory. In Jónsson’s view, lack of sleep and excessive use of computer by students late at night are largely to blame for their behavior towards their teachers. He stresses, however, that most students are well behaved, but that a few offenders make things difficult for the rest. RÚV online reports.