Alarming Security Concerns at Mallarmé College in Marseille
This Tuesday, a shocking discovery of 87 lead impacts was made on the facade of Mallarmé College, situated in the 13th arrondissement of Marseille, a priority education zone. The alarming situation prompted teachers to exercise their right of withdrawal due to serious safety concerns for both students and staff. Reports indicate that shell casings were also found on the school’s sports field, raising fears of potential links to nearby drug trafficking operations. Local authorities and the new Minister of National Education, Anne Genetet, have responded with urgent meetings to address the crisis and ensure the safety of the school community.
The discovery of lead impacts was made by cleaning agents earlier this week, leading to immediate action by the teachers who have voiced their concerns about the lack of protection. They have repeatedly reported issues since November 9, 2023, with initial impacts noted as far back as August. The college is located near the Le Clos à la Rose estate, an area notorious for drug dealing, prompting authorities to investigate possible connections between the incidents and local criminal activities. Police prefect Pierre-Edouard Colliex emphasized the need for enhanced security measures, stating that it is unacceptable for students and teachers to feel unsafe at school.
- ## Teachers Demand Action Amid Ongoing Insecurity The situation escalated further as the college remained closed for a second consecutive day due to teachers exercising their right of withdrawal. Union representative Jean-François Negri highlighted the staff's growing frustration and fear, stating, "Colleagues are cracking up and don't feel safe. We are civil servants of the National Education system, not the GIGN!" The presence of a drug dealing point adjacent to the college has exacerbated concerns, with reports of violence and intimidation affecting both students and staff. In response to the crisis, Minister Genetet canceled her planned trip to hold an emergency meeting focused on securing schools. She expressed her commitment to ensuring that educational environments remain free from intimidation and violence. Following discussions with the principal and local authorities, measures have been put in place, including the deployment of a clinical psychologist to support the staff and potential listening cells for students. Despite police efforts to increase security, including patrols and the removal of graffiti linked to drug dealing, teachers remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures. Many feel that without a lasting solution, the safety of the college community remains at risk. As the situation unfolds, the urgent need for a coordinated response from educational and law enforcement authorities is more critical than ever.
