School in Petah Tikva to Open Late After Violent Classroom Attack

The Teachers Union said studies at the religious school Or Y.Orbach in Petah Tikva will begin tomorrow, Friday, at 10:00 a.m., after a violent incident during classes today. The union said the local branch chair, Ravit Glayadi Gatnayo, will come to the school and hold an information meeting with the teachers between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. Special education classes are exempt and will operate on their regular schedule.

According to the union, the decision followed what it described as a very serious violent episode during the school day. A student repeatedly disrupted class and even hurt one of the pupils. When the class teacher tried to handle the situation and restore order, the student began attacking and beating her. He also tried to grab the phone from her hands when she attempted to call for help.

The union said the student then banged on desks with a stainless-steel bottle, overturned desks and threatened pupils. As the teacher tried to protect the children and move them away from danger, he threw the bottle forcefully at her, striking her in the head. She was taken for medical treatment after the blow.

Michael Pinto, head of the Teachers Union’s professional division, warned of worsening violence against educators. “It is inconceivable that teachers should end the workday in hospital,” he said, calling the case “serious and dangerous” and saying the teacher was attacked while trying to do her basic job. Ravit Glayadi Gatnayo said regular classes cannot continue after such an event and that the school staff will receive full backing.