A memorial altar for the deceased special education teacher. Provided by Yonhap News
While a special education teacher at an elementary school in Incheon, who was about to get married next year, died, suspicions were raised that the work burden was heavy, including taking charge of an overcrowded special class that exceeded legal standards.
According to education authorities and Incheon Michuhol Police Station on the 30th, Mr. A (30s), a special education teacher at an elementary school in Michuhol-gu, was found dead at his home around 8 p.m. on the 24th.
Based on the condition of Teacher A’s body, the police believe there is no suspicion of crime and are investigating the specific circumstances of death.
It was discovered that Mr. A had recently been taking charge of a total of eight students in special education, including four students with severe disabilities.
The Special Education Act for Persons with Disabilities, etc. stipulates that in elementary and middle school courses, one class must be established if the number of students eligible for special education is between 1 and 6, and if the number of students exceeds 6, two or more classes must be established.
Initially, Mr. A was in charge of a special class teacher and six students.
However, last March, a special student transferred to the school, and four months later, one student from the general class was transferred to the special class, leaving a total of eight students in charge.
Accordingly, it was confirmed that the Incheon Metropolitan Office of Education supplemented three additional assistants and provided financial support over the three months of March, April, and May.
According to the special education community, Mr. A had to visit an orthopedic surgeon after being hit in the face by students with disabilities, but it was reported that he did not take sick leave due to lack of manpower. It is known that Mr. A is planning to get married next year.
An official at the Michuhol Police Station said, “We cannot reveal the specific circumstances of the death,” but added, “There are no criminal charges.”
※ If you have concerns that are difficult to talk about, such as depression, or if you have family members or acquaintances who are experiencing such difficulties, you can receive counseling from experts 24 hours a day at the suicide prevention hotline 109.
Reporter Han Yun-jong hyj0709@segye.com
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Source: www.segye.com
