The New York Daily News is reporting that there are allegations of abuse at the South African girl’s school founded by Oprah Winfrey. The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls
The New York Daily News reports that in recent weeks, several allegations made by students at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls claim that school matrons fondled and beat the female students. One incident claims a matron allegedly grabbed a girl by the throat and tossed her into a wall.
The allegations came to light after a student ran away from the school’s dorms, reportedly because the abuse had become overwhelming.
“I’ve disappointed you. I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry,†Winfrey told families in an emergency meeting on Sunday at the South African school. The school’s principal and two matrons were placed on leave following the allegations.
Over the past few weeks, Winfrey has flown to South Africa twice to deal with the scandal.
Reports are that Oprah was tearful when she asked the parents to forgive her for the alleged abuses. She has put two teachers and the principle on leave while the situation is being investigated.
Whenever you have children and caretakers in a situation like that, you have to watch the caretakers like a hawk. It only takes one scumbag to ruin a good situation for the children and abuses attempt to get jobs in places that take care of children. It sounds like a better system of checks and balances need to be put into place so that any bad apples can bet gotten rid of before they can do harm.
The fact that they are not making an attempt to cover up (as far as I know) makes me believe that they are dealing with the situation in a responsible manner. As a general rule, its not the crime but the cover up that will blow up in your face.