Former Principal of Liuqiu Junior High Cleared of Wrongdoing Amid Bullying Probe: 'I've Done Nothing Illegal, I Stand by Education'

(Central News Agency reporter Li Hui-ting, Pingtung County, June 16) — The Control Yuan censured Su Chuanju, former principal of Liuqiu Junior High School, last year over allegations of workplace bullying. Following an investigation, the Pingtung County Government removed him from his principal position in May this year. Su stated today that he has never broken the law and that he is proud of his service to education in Liuqiu.

The Pingtung County Education Division announced today that, after completing deliberations under the 'Regulations on the Investigation and Handling of Inappropriate Conduct by Elementary and Junior High School Principals,' Su Chuanju's position as principal was officially terminated on May 19, 2024. Su has been assigned to support duties at the county’s Sports Development Center until June 30, after which he will return to Liuqiu Junior High as a teacher and be transferred to another school in August.

The Education Division emphasized that it will continue supervising schools to strengthen personnel management and occupational safety oversight. Anti-bullying awareness, prevention mechanisms, and counseling systems will be promoted during principal administrative meetings. Professional psychological counseling, support, and crisis response assistance will also be provided to help teachers manage campus emergencies.

Regarding his removal, Su said in a phone interview that he has already filed an appeal with the Ministry of Education over the bullying allegations. He also filed a legal complaint with the Pingtung District Prosecutors Office regarding false testimony by a fellow teacher in court, and is now awaiting judicial outcomes. 'Whether I remain a principal or not no longer matters to me,' he said.

Su stressed that he has never acted illegally and that all his actions were for the sake of education and students. Having served his hometown for seven years, he said he has no regrets and stands proudly by his contribution to Liuqiu’s education.

In its December 2023 censure report, the Control Yuan stated that while serving as principal, Su failed to fulfill his duty of care regarding the sudden death of a substitute teacher due to work overload. It also found that Su exerted improper pressure on a witness in a labor insurance benefits case involving the deceased teacher’s family, constituting workplace bullying. The censure was approved, prompting the Pingtung County Government to initiate the inappropriate conduct review process, leading to his removal. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150616