Defamatory online attacks damage teacher credibility

“Defamatory online attacks against teachers risk damaging their credibility and reputation for the sake of a student joke or personal vendetta,” said New Zealand Teachers Council Director, Dr Peter Lind.

“We’re concerned about online postings that bring a teacher’s conduct into question when they have in fact done nothing wrong.”

The New Zealand Teachers Council (Council) investigates complaints made against teachers, and decides whether a teacher has a case to answer.

“False accusations made against teachers have the potential of causing a lot of damage, particularly when the postings influence members of the public to question the teacher’s actions.

“The potential for defamatory attacks to result in a complaint from a concerned member of the public is real.

“The Council takes all complaints seriously and it would be extremely unfortunate to investigate a teacher who has been the victim of false claims.

“The Council’s conduct processes are in place to protect children and young people from serious misconduct by teachers.

“The safety of students is the Council’s greatest concern, but we must also protect teachers against false claims about inappropriate conduct.

“There are high standards to be met for teachers to enter and remain in the profession, so parents can be assured of the quality of New Zealand teachers,” said Dr Lind.

The New Zealand Teachers Council

The New Zealand Teachers Council is an autonomous Crown Entity that was established in 2002 to provide professional leadership in teaching, enhance the professional status of teachers and to contribute to a safe and high quality teaching and learning environment. The Council works, in partnership with teachers and others, to encourage best teaching practice, excellent learning outcomes for students and the maintenance of high professional standards.

For further information

Contact: Dr Peter Lind, Director, New Zealand Teachers Council

Phone: 04 470 9055

Email: peter.lind@teacherscouncil.govt.nz