Controversial choice to keep student who attacked educator in school
A private school in Uthai Thani province is facing criticism for allowing a Grade 11 student, who assaulted his math teacher over a disputed exam score, to continue his studies online instead of expelling him.
The student, whose name has not been disclosed, attacked his math teacher, Pornthip, on August 5, 2025. The incident was recorded and widely circulated online, showing the student punching the teacher in the face, causing injuries that required hospitalization.
The teacher had explained that the student lost marks because he did not show the required working steps, a decision upheld by other faculty. The student became violent after being denied a perfect mark, apparently motivated by his aim to apply to the police academy. Authorities confirmed the student had a prior record of violent behavior at school.
Despite the assault, the student was suspended and later allowed to study online. This decision has stirred public debate, with many feeling that the severity of the assault warrants expulsion. The alumni group of the school has expressed controversy over the decision, stating that it disregards the law and the seriousness of the assault.
The alumni group's statement also highlights that the assault violated the Criminal Code, which mandates potential penalties including a two-year jail sentence or a fine of up to 40,000 baht. The statement suggests that the school's decision sends a troubling message that such conduct can be overlooked.
The school's dean, Somboon Thiprangsi, stated that the decision was made to give the student an opportunity to reflect and seek guidance on his future. The student's return to school is pending approval from a multidisciplinary team.
The student's parents have apologised to the teacher on his behalf, and the assaulted teacher has expressed her intention to return to teaching after recovery. The student is currently participating in online classes, but there is no new information about his mental health evaluation or his participation in these classes.
This case has ignited discussions in Thailand about handling student violence and appropriate school disciplinary measures. The alumni group's statement also mentions relevant provisions in the National Education Act and Education Ministry regulations, further emphasising the gravity of the situation.
The police have filed a report following the incident, and a mental health evaluation was planned to assess the student's condition. The case underscores the importance of strict school discipline and respect for teachers, as well as the need to address student violence in educational institutions.
General news outlets and education-and-self-development forums are abuzz with debates about the private school in Uthai Thani province, following its decision to allow an assaulting student to continue his studies online. The alumni group of the school argues that such leniency disregards the law and the seriousness of the student's violent assault on his math teacher, which violates the Criminal Code and warrants potential penalities including a two-year jail sentence or a fine of up to 40,000 baht.
