Dali High School Coach Suspected of Mistreating Student; Taichung City Government: Any Violations Will Be Severely Punished

Regarding a coach from Dali High School's weightlifting team suspected of mistreating a student by slapping him, which was posted online by netizens, the Taichung City Education Bureau stated today that it received the report on March 25th and immediately required the school to initiate an investigation according to regulations. The bureau will continue to track the school's investigation progress. If any violations are found, they will be severely punished according to law to protect students' rights.

The Education Bureau pointed out that the school has convened a special project meeting. Subsequently, it will handle the matter in accordance with the "Regulations for the Dismissal, Non-Reappointment, Suspension, or Retirement of Teachers in Secondary and Primary Schools" and the "Guidelines for Schools Establishing Teacher Counseling and Student Discipline Methods." The Education Bureau will continue to follow up on the investigation progress and handling situation, demanding the school expedite the investigation. Any violations will be severely punished according to law.

Dali High School explained that the incident occurred mid-March during a bench press competition. A student serving as a work assistant accidentally injured his hand while moving heavy objects and blurted out inappropriate words in shock. The coach noticed due to the loud volume and called the student over for a reprimand. During the process, the coach engaged in inappropriate physical contact.

Upon learning of the incident, Principal Zhang Zhong-kai immediately interviewed the coach and student involved. The student described the coach as patting him with the back of his hand, stating he understood the coach's original intention and did not feel the discipline was improper. Zhang Zhong-kai personally visited the student's home that evening for a home visit.

The school pointed out that the student's parents expressed gratitude for the school's proactive concern. They mentioned that their child had a history of ADHD and faced challenges in academic adaptation. Since joining the weightlifting team, his performance has greatly improved. They deeply trust the coach's long-term dedication. The parents, citing "entrusting disciplinary matters," did not feel the action was improper and thanked the coach for being willing to correct their child's mistakes.

The school stated that a special project meeting was held afterward, inviting parents and the coach to the school again for their statements. Regarding the coach's inappropriate physical contact, the school, adhering to the principle of "no concealment, no favoritism," has proceeded with disciplinary warnings according to relevant procedures, instructing the coach to take it as a lesson. After reviewing the relevant footage, the parents specifically requested that the public stop re-sharing the video to avoid causing secondary harm to their child, and not allow their child to be used as a tool for online exploitation or attack. (Editor: Li Shu-hua) 1150417