Lollipop man slapped with ban over "innocent" gesture
<p>A beloved lollipop man in Victoria has been banned from high-fiving children after receiving a complaint from a concerned parent. </p>
<p>John Goulden is a much-loved elderly lollipop man at the Mount Dandenong Primary School in Greater Melbourne, and will no longer be able to high five kids as they leave and enter the school grounds. </p>
<p>Goulden, who was recently crowned one of Victoria’s top crossing supervisors, was reprimanded by Yarra Ranges Council who warned him against “initiating unnecessary physical contact” with the children.</p>
<p>Outraged parents in the community have rallied behind the cherished lollipop man, with one parent, Rohan Bradley, even starting a petition to have the ban removed, saying that Mr Goulden has an “infectious joy that leaves a lasting impression on students and parents”. </p>
<p>“His high fives in the morning and afternoon have become a tradition that many children look forward to, a small gesture that symbolises the warmth and friendliness of our unique community,” he said. </p>
<p>“Sadly, this tradition is under threat. With our children’s happiness and wellbeing hanging in the balance, we need to take action.”</p>
<p>Mr Bradley said it was not just about a simple high five but about “preserving our unique community’s spirit”. </p>
<p>“We implore those in charge to let John continue to high-five his students, preserving an act that sparks joy and promotes a more positive learning environment,” he said.</p>
<p>The petition has already gained more than 500 signatures as parents and students stand with the “community’s morale booster”. </p>
<p>In a statement, Yarra Ranges Council confirmed they had received a complaint from a parent at the school about the crossing supervisor dishing out high fives.</p>
<p>“Council’s internal policies and the Victorian Standards clearly states that unacceptable behaviours includes: Exhibiting behaviours with children and young people which may be construed as unnecessarily physical,” they told <em>9News</em>. </p>
<p>“Council has reminded the contractor who is currently supervising children at the Mount Dandenong Primary School of expectations of the role regarding interactions with children.”</p>
<p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>
