Staff express safety concerns at Korsholm Secondary School in Pohjalainen

Staff at Korsholm Secondary School in Pohjalainen are expressing concerns regarding safety within the institution. Nearly 40 staff members have signed a statement highlighting a culture of humiliation and violence among students. The municipality’s Education Committee is set to address the issue during a meeting this Wednesday evening.

The statement reports instances where students have threatened teachers and staff, asserting that educators lack the resources or tools necessary to handle challenging situations. Additionally, reports of students being robbed during school hours have emerged.

“We can only effect change if we dare to confront and discuss the issues and challenges at hand,” the signatories wrote. Last Thursday, a police operation took place at the Swedish-speaking upper secondary school after a student was suspected of bringing a weapon to campus.

In response, the Education Committee noted that the school’s resources have increased in accordance with rising student numbers over recent years. From the 2022-2023 school year, the lesson framework has expanded by nearly 100 hours. Temporary measures have also been implemented to enhance supervision during breaks, alongside significant investments aimed at improving the well-being of both staff and students.

School management is collaborating with student welfare services and local police initiatives. Staff members are offered coaching and support through occupational health services. A survey conducted in early September revealed that 96 percent of students reported feeling safe at school, although some respondents mentioned overcrowding and congested hallways as concerns. The topic has also been reported by Yle Österbotten.