📚 SEN teacher exonerated in alleged school exorcism incident

The Ministry of Education and the Department of Education Services (DES) in the Cayman Islands have announced that no further action is required following an investigation into allegations of misconduct by a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) at Red Bay Primary School. Dr. Meredith Rankine was accused of participating in an event on school grounds described by students and parents as an "exorcism". The incident, which occurred three years ago, also implicated the school's principal, Vickie Frederick, leading to an investigation into potential misconduct endangering children's safety. 🏫

While details of the investigation have been kept confidential, it is known that other education professionals were also involved in the incident, causing concern among parents and students. Despite the allegations, Frederick was not fully suspended and continued to work remotely. She was officially reinstated in November 2023. The Ministry and DES have now confirmed that they found no misconduct by Dr. Rankine, who returned to her role at the school in November 2022. The authorities have not clarified why the investigation's results were only revealed now, 18 months after Rankine's return. 🕵️‍♂️

According to sources, the incident involved young students discussing sexuality, leading to some being removed from class and questioned about their understanding of their own sexuality. This was followed by a religious ceremony where they were allegedly told they were possessed by demons and needed to repent. However, the authorities have not confirmed these details and have urged staff, parents, and the public to respect Dr. Rankine's privacy. 👨‍🏫