Anti-Japanese demonstrations took a serious turn outside the Japanese Embassy this weekend. The demonstrations were not unanticipated, however, and some parents report that late last week, teachers advised students to avoid the area surrounding the Japanese Embassy completely. Given the escalation in demonstrations, international schools are adopting interim safety procedures.
The schools that beijingkids spoke to on Monday afternoon all declined to be named due to the sensitive nature of the demonstrations and to protect the safety of their students. One international school was forced to close for Monday and Tuesday due to proximity to the Japanese Embassy. Vehicles of any kind were barred from entering the school gates, and it remains to be seen whether the school will re-open on Wednesday. The school is in constant contact with the police bureau, and assured beijingkids that student safety was the first priority.
Other schools that are open as usual are adopting more rigorous safety standards, especially with regard to bus routes. One school noted that Japanese students are dropped off directly at their houses instead of at designated stops. Anyone planning to go to a school campus for any reason should call ahead to ensure that the school is operating as usual and to learn of any additional security requirements.
Photo by Flickr user MaraudersMap.
