Allegations of Sexual Abuse
	False Allegations
	John Edgar case
	The Timaru Herald May 4, 1998 Schools need more men Editorial Former Hukanui Primary School teacher John Edgar was angry at a system that allowed him to be dragged through the courts when he said men considering teaching as a career should not get into it and those already in the profession should get out. He calmed somewhat later, reflecting more the fact he had just been acquitted on eight counts of indecency, but he remained cynical that other male teachers were at risk of similar accusations. The hope though is that men aspiring to be teachers take no notice, and that the publicity can be turned around to attract more male teachers. Education officials are trying to do that, pointing out how valuable male teachers are, and putting into perspective the risk of prosecution. Only 20 per cent of primary teachers are males, with a similar percentage in training, yet for many young children their teachers might be the only men in their lives. One in four children live in sole parent families in New Zealand, most of them run by mothers, and these children need male role models who are fair, honest and even friendly. That goes for young girls as much as it does for boys. It should be remembered that few indecency charges are brought against teachers -- unfortunately some are found proven -- but Dr Edgar's case proves the justice system does not automatically convict. If anything, his case highlights political correctness gone awry in a society where even a father feels apprehensive about hugging his daughter in public, but Dr Edgar also had the added stigma of being bisexual to overcome. Prejudiced parents should remember that sexual preferences outside the norm does not a paedophile make. So what is the answer? Not to brush it under the carpet for one. Physical and sexual abuse does occur, albeit rarely, its impact severe, and provisions have to be made to deal with it. A code of practice for physical contact with students exists, and for those doubtful situations, common sense should apply. Heaven forbid that a teacher -- man or woman -- cannot give a tearful child a cuddle, or a pat on the back for a job well done. Hopefully, men considering a primary teaching career will not be put off, but rather take heart that Dr Edgar was cleared. It remains a worthwhile, satisfying career, and with pay parity with secondary teachers now in force, remuneration should not be a deterrent. Primary schools need more male teachers.