Beloved School Crossing Guard Banned from High-Fiving Students After Parent Complaint

Australian school crossing guard John Goulden was banned from giving students high fives after a parent complained about it.Photo byYarra Ranges Council/Facebook

Disclaimer: This article was written with the help of A.I. software.

Incident Details:

• Date: July 2024
• Place: Mount Dandenong Primary School, Greater Melbourne, Australia
• Time: During school drop-off and pick-up times

An Australian school community is reeling after a popular crossing guard was banned from high-fiving students due to a parent’s complaint. The ban has sparked outrage among parents and students at Mount Dandenong Primary School in Greater Melbourne, who see the gesture as a beloved tradition.

READ NEXT: Simone Biles Shares Glimpse Inside Texas Mansion Renovation

An online petition was started to let Goulden give students a high five after crossing the street.Photo byChange.org

The Incident:

John Goulden, a crossing supervisor known for his warm demeanor, has been reprimanded by the Yarra Ranges Council after a complaint was lodged by a parent. The council cited concerns about “initiating unnecessary physical contact” with children, which led to the ban on high-fives during his crossing duties.

READ NEXT: Bold and Unapologetic: How One Woman Embraces Her Curves Despite Online Hate

Goulden was warned against “initiating unnecessary physical contact.”Photo byGoogle Maps

Goulden, who was recently honored as one of Victoria’s top crossing supervisors, has been a fixture at the school, providing not just safe passage across the street but also spreading joy through his friendly interactions with students.

READ NEXT: Contrasting Reactions: Serbia and Team USA’s Approach to National Anthems at Paris Olympics

Community Reaction:

• Parents and students are rallying behind Goulden, with many expressing disbelief and disappointment over the decision.
• Rohan Bradley, a parent and organizer of a petition to overturn the ban, said, “His high fives in the morning and afternoon have become a tradition that many children look forward to, a small gesture that symbolizes the warmth and friendliness of our unique community.”
• The petition, which has already garnered over 500 signatures, aims to reinstate the high-fives, emphasizing that the gesture is a key part of the community’s spirit.

READ NEXT: Diners Outraged by New 90-Minute Table Limit: "We Won't Be Rushed Out!"

Council’s Stance:

The Yarra Ranges Council issued a statement confirming the complaint and reinforcing its policies. “Council’s internal policies and the Victorian Standards clearly state that unacceptable behaviors include exhibiting behaviors with children and young people which may be construed as unnecessarily physical,” the statement read.

READ NEXT: Photos: Brittney Griner's Wife Goes Viral At The Summer Olympics

Despite the council’s stance, the school community remains hopeful that the ban will be reconsidered, allowing Goulden to continue his tradition of spreading positivity.

READ NEXT: Teen with Severe Dairy Allergy Dies After Drinking ‘Soya Milk’ Costa Hot Chocolate, Inquest Told.

Conclusion:

This incident has highlighted the delicate balance between safety and community values. While the council’s actions are grounded in policy, the outcry from parents and students underscores the importance of small gestures in fostering a positive environment. The outcome of the petition will be eagerly awaited as the community seeks to restore a sense of normalcy and joy to their daily routines.

Source: NY Post