The city of Beauvais is reeling from a heinous act of vandalism involving two local schools, committed just hours before Christmas. Residents woke up on the morning of December 24, 2024, to discover the Alphonse-Daudet elementary school and the annex of the Perrault nursery school had been severely damaged.
Upon arrival at the scene, the mayor of Beauvais, Franck Pia, expressed his outrage, describing the incident as "unacceptable" and "inexcusable." The schools were ransacked, with classrooms overturned, books scattered, and property destroyed. This event has sparked concerns not only for the immediate community but also about broader issues affecting public safety and the welfare of children.
The vandalism, according to police reports, occurred late at night during the hours leading up to Christmas. It involved significant destruction, including smashed computers, broken aquariums, and other educational equipment. A notable example of the destruction was found at the Alphonse-Daudet school, where assailants used hammers to break electronic devices. Meanwhile, at the Perrault nursery’s annex, aquariums were shattered, leaving several fish dead.
“This is pure barbarism! There was no theft involved, only a clear intent to spread destruction,” said Mayor Pia, visibly shaken by the aftermath of such violence. He stated, "It’s unbearable for everyone involved,” emphasizing the insult to institutions of learning. Pia visited both schools shortly after the vandalism was uncovered, conveying his solidarity with the teachers, students, and parents affected.
The swift response from the authorities included mobilizing local police to begin investigations immediately. They will examine surveillance footage from nearby cameras as part of their effort to trace the culprits behind this shocking act. “We won't tolerate attacks on our educational symbols—it's more than just physical damage. It's an attack against our community's future,” he added.
For the residents of Beauvais, the impact reaches beyond the physical damage. Many expressed their disappointment and anger. One mother, who lives near the Alphonse-Daudet school, shared her dismay: “These are places where our children learn, where they feel safe. Seeing this level of violence on December 24 is appalling.”
The emotional toll on the local community is compounded by the potential financial repercussions of the damage incurred. Not only will the schools face substantial repair costs, but they must also contend with the need for heightened security measures. Teachers and faculty now face pressing concerns about ensuring both safety and educational continuity for the students.
This incident has triggered broader discussions about community safety and youth behavior. Mayor Pia pledged to hold discussions with the Oise Prefect to explore increasing security around schools. He maintained, “It is imperative we protect our educational institutions to prevent such acts from reoccurring.”
The vandalism spree has left the citizens of Beauvais grappling with questions surrounding the motivations of those who would commit such despicable acts, particularly during the holiday period intended for reflection and joy. Schools are more than just buildings—they are sacred spaces for growth, learning, and community building.
By the evening of December 24, the atmosphere was markedly somber as families were meant to gather and celebrate. The stark reality of the vandalism created an undercurrent of distress overshadowing the traditional joy of the holiday. While the authorities are committed to bringing the offenders to justice, the scars left on the community’s psyche will take longer to heal.
Mayor Pia concluded by reaffirming the importance of unity in the face of adversity. “We must come together as a community to support our schools and each other. We will not let such acts define us.”
With investigations underway, residents remain vigilant, hoping for justice and restoration, but yearning for the return of peace and safety to their beloved educational environments.
