Education Ministry investigating barring of McGrath High schoolboy over his hair
The Ministry of Education says it is working with McGrath High School in St Catherine to address the issue of a schoolboy being barred from entering the institution due to his hairstyle and will ensure that proper procedures are followed moving forward.
The student, who was barred over a grooming policy infraction, posted a video on TikTok accusing the school of unfair treatment and called for the intervention of the Ministry of Education.
The video went viral, reigniting public discussions about hairstyles in schools.
The Ministry says it has received a preliminary report as part of an ongoing investigation launched last week when the video began circulating.
According to the report, the student arrived late and was cautioned about both his tardiness and his haircut, which was deemed non-compliant with the school's regulations.
He was reportedly instructed to remain in a designated area while his parents were contacted.
However, the student allegedly left the school compound.
Efforts by the principal to direct the student and others back inside were reportedly met with non-compliance, the Ministry added.
The Ministry, through its Regional Office, says it is assessing the issue and will meet with the student, his parents, the principal, and other involved parties to discuss the matter.
These meetings, it states, are part of efforts to ensure that all stakeholders adhere to established protocols while prioritising the educational needs and well-being of the students involved.
“The Ministry doesn't take incidents like this lightly. While we are committed to upholding school policies, we must ensure that all actions are carried out in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of both students and staff. Our goal is to promote a positive learning environment where discipline is balanced with understanding,” said Chief Education Officer Terry Ann Thomas-Gayle.
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