Authorities in Serres, northern Greece, have suspended the principal of the Neou Souliou Gymnasium following serious allegations of violence toward students and staff. The 60-year-old director reportedly taped a 13-year-old student’s mouth shut and ordered a classmate to tie him up, prompting immediate intervention and her removal from the school.

The incident sheds light on longstanding issues at the school. Students report daily arguments between the principal and teachers, including physical altercations. Teachers and staff have long complained about her behavior, describing “yelling, punishments, and unreasonable demands,” with concerns raised to authorities over several years, yet no decisive action had been taken.

The principal has been sentenced to 24 months in prison, a sentence that can be converted to a fine, and remains suspended from her position. Observers note the apparent delay in accountability despite repeated complaints from educators.

Her husband publicly attributed her conduct to serious mental health issues. Speaking to Greek media, he explained that she had consistently taken prescribed medication for 16 years but stopped in 2022, after which her behavior reportedly deteriorated. He emphasized multiple attempts to seek psychiatric help, which she refused, describing her condition as worsening daily.

“It’s impossible to communicate with her,” he said. “The principal suffers from a severe mental disorder. Since 2022, there have been daily problems at school, at home, and in the neighborhood. I have resigned myself to the situation.”

The Neou Souliou Gymnasium reopened normally after her suspension, but the case has sparked public debate over school oversight, staff safety, and the handling of mental health in positions of responsibility.