Leicester Teacher Banned for DUI Hit-and-Run, Faces Serious Professional Consequences
A primary school teacher in Leicester has been prohibited from teaching after being involved in a DUI hit-and-run incident. Rebekah Goldson, who was previously employed at Millgate School, fled the scene of an accident in November 2019, where she had collided with a stationary car. Leicestershire Police received reports that Goldson had been driving under the influence, and upon arriving at her residence, they found her appearing intoxicated and her vehicle damaged. Despite their request, Goldson refused to take a breathalyser test.
Following her arrest, Rebekah Goldson pleaded guilty to several charges, including failing to provide a breath specimen, failing to stop after an accident, and resisting or obstructing a constable. In retrospect, she admitted that stopping and reporting the accident would have been the appropriate course of action.
In a recent hearing, it was ruled that Rebekah Goldson’s actions amounted to unacceptable professional conduct that fell significantly short of the expected standards of the teaching profession. The panel emphasized that her conviction for serious driving offences could seriously undermine public confidence in educators unless treated with the utmost seriousness. As a result, Goldson has been disqualified from teaching, with the option to request a review of the ban in two years.
Additionally, Rebekah Goldson was also accused of being drunk while at work after colleagues noticed a strong smell of alcohol when she arrived one day. Goldson argued that this was due to consuming a glass of wine the previous evening and denied being intoxicated. The panel took into account the testimony of a colleague who observed one of Goldson’s lessons and concluded that, other than the alleged smell of alcohol, there was no evidence suggesting she was drunk on that particular day.
The panel acknowledged Goldson’s clean record prior to these incidents, noting that no concerns had previously been raised regarding her teaching ability. However, they did not consider her personal difficulties during that period as an excuse for her conduct. Furthermore, they expressed concern over the lack of evidence demonstrating a change in Goldson’s circumstances or outlining measures to prevent a recurrence in the future.
Sarah Buxcey, the decision maker for this case on behalf of the Secretary of State for Education, upheld the panel’s recommendation for a prohibition order. Buxcey cited the lack of remorse and insight on Goldson’s part, indicating a potential risk of repeated behavior that could jeopardize the well-being of students. Buxcey particularly emphasized the impact of the serious driving offences involving alcohol on the reputation of the teaching profession.
In conclusion, Rebekah Goldson’s DUI hit-and-run incident has resulted in severe professional consequences as she has been banned from teaching due to her unacceptable professional conduct. The panel’s decision reflects their commitment to upholding the standards of the teaching profession and ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils. It remains crucial for educators to comport themselves in a manner that maintains public trust and confidence.
