Officials at the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology acknowledge that they are aware of a case of indecent exposure by a male teacher involving minors that is currently before the courts.
Deputy Director of Education for Grand Bahama, Bimini and the Cays, Michelle Bowleg spoke with ZNS News on the matter. She assured that the safety of students remain a top priority for the ministry. “Whenever is there are concerns raised or any matter is reported to us we are obligated by law to report any incident to the relevant authority. While we are unable to comment I want to say that we have followed all of the protocols as it relates to this matter,”
It is alleged that Leon Cooper Jr., who is a Physical Education Teacher at a local primary school, committed acts of indecent exposure involving female minors at the school. Cooper pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in the Magistrate’s Court in Grand Bahama on Monday.
Magistrate Uel Johnson questioned whether the charges should have been brought under the Sexual Offences Act. This prompted a review by the Director of Public Prosecutions before the arraignment proceeded. Cooper Jr. was granted $1,000 bail. The case has been adjourned to November 9th.
Questions have arisen about the vetting of the accused by education officials. Bowleg said all teachers are required to go through the ministry’s vetting process before entering the classroom.
As for the victims in the case, the education director said she cannot commit as the matter is before the courts. However she said, “the Guidance Councillors in Grand Bahama are very effective and I’m sure they would have reached out to any student who may be experiencing any kind of trauma at this time.”
Bowleg is unsure whether there will be any policy changes as a result of the incident. She said officials are committed to ensuring that students and teachers are in a safe environment.
