Education ministry steps in to avert further disruptions at St James High

The education ministry has assigned three senior officials to mediate tensions at St James High School after a dispute involving the principal and the board chairman forced the school's closure today.

A video has emerged on social media showing chaotic scenes at a meeting at the institution on Monday.

An "unfortunate breakdown in leadership" has disrupted school operations, the ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

The relationship between Principal Joseph Williams and Chairman Christopher McCurdy has been strained.

The three officials assigned to help restore order at the institution are Executive Director for the National Council on Education, Merris Murray, Acting Chief Education Officer Terry-Ann Thomas Gayle, and Regional Director Dr Michele Pinnock.

Minister of Education, Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon expressed concerns about the events.

"A strong and cohesive leadership and governance structure is essential for the effective management of our schools and, ultimately, the success of our students. Under no circumstances should we have leaders at odds much less behaving in a manner to deprive our students of a day of learning and good example of excellence in stewardship," she said.

The ministry said principals, board members, and school administrators play a critical role in fostering an environment conducive to student achievement, teacher development, and institutional growth.

Permanent Secretary Dr Kasan Troupe reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to restoring order and providing necessary support to ensure stability at the school.

The Opposition People's National Party has urged the ministry "to take immediate action to reopen St James High School and prevent further disruption to students’ education".

It said for the second consecutive day, the education of over 1,700 students "has been derailed by a leadership breakdown—a situation the PNP finds deeply alarming and unacceptable".

Deputy Shadow Spokesperson on Education Dr Kenneth Russell, condemned the closure.

“This is unacceptable. Disagreements among school leaders should never come at the expense of our children’s education,” said he said. “All parties must put the students first. The school must be reopened immediately while the Ministry works on a lasting resolution.”

Russell said the situation also underscores "the urgent need for school governance reform" in Jamaica.

St James High made headlines in the last year with questionable decision-making that raised concerns about the relationship between the board and the school's administration. One of the incidents involved the expulsion of two girls allegedly without due process.

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