The Maryse-Bastié school in Bourges was ransacked during the weekend. Overturned tables, paint on the walls… Mayor Yann Galut expressed his indignation. The police are investigating to find those responsible for this unacceptable act.
What was the astonishment of the teaching team at the Maryse-Bastié nursery school in Bourges this Monday morning when they discovered the damage caused by acts of vandalism perpetrated during the weekend. Tables overturned, paint sprayed on the walls and furniture, water spilled on the floor… The sad spectacle aroused great emotion and anger.
On his Facebook page, the city’s mayor Yann Galut strongly denounced this damage, describing these acts as “deeply revolting”. Accompanied by police officers who came to observe the damage, the councilor promised that everything would be done to find the culprits:
Together, we will not let these malicious acts discourage us.
Yann Galut, Mayor of Bourges
An open investigation, the students relocated
According to our information, the children were hosted for the day in the neighboring elementary school while the police carried out the first investigations. According to a source close to the investigation, all the clues are carefully noted to try to identify the perpetrators of these unspeakable acts.
The municipality has already announced its intention to file a complaint. And all the more so since the Maryse-Bastié school had just been completely renovated, as the mayor bitterly pointed out. An investment wasted by the stupidity of a few unconscious individuals.
The teaching staff in shock but determined
Despite the legitimate shock and anger, teachers remain mobilized to welcome the children in the best possible conditions while repairs are carried out. Driven by their vocation, they do everything they can to limit the impact of this damage on the daily lives of students.
There is no doubt that these gratuitous and cowardly acts will in no way undermine the determination of the teaching team. But they also leave a bitter taste and a deep incomprehension. How can we attack a school, a place of learning and development for the youngest?
A necessary mobilization in the face of the intolerable
Beyond this sad episode, it is the question of securing educational establishments that is once again raised. Although inspections and rounds are regularly carried out, it is clear that this is not always enough to deter the most malicious.
Strengthening the systems will it be necessary? A reflection will undoubtedly have to be carried out, in consultation with all the stakeholders concerned. In the meantime, let us hope that the perpetrators of these misdeeds are quickly identified and punished accordingly. So that such damage does not happen again.
Support and solidarity towards the school
Since the announcement of these acts of vandalism, messages of support have been pouring in for the teaching team and students. Parents of students, local residents, local elected officials… All express their solidarity and their wish to see the school return to normal operation as quickly as possible.
Because beyond the material damage, which is inevitably repairable, it is indeed a symbol that has been attacked. That of an essential public service, dedicated to the education of our children. A pillar of our Republic which must remain protected against all odds.
Let us bet that this unfortunate episode, unanimously condemned, will also reveal the best: a collective surge to defend our schools. And continue to offer our children serene and caring places of learning. Far from violence and incivility.
