Gates padlocked at St James High

Operations at St James High School were disrupted this morning as ancillary staff arrived to find the school's gates padlocked, with police officers present on the compound.

The Gleaner spoke with the school's principal, Joseph Williams, who confirmed that he received a phone call about the situation and was making his way to the institution to assess the circumstances.

For months, tensions have simmered at the school, stemming from a contentious relationship between Williams and recently reappointed board chairman Christopher McCurdy.

Despite objections from various stakeholders, including the Parent-Teacher Association, McCurdy was reappointed.

St James High has made headlines over the last year due to governance disputes, with Williams and McCurdy frequently clashing over key decisions. The ongoing discord has raised concerns about the school's leadership stability and overall administrative effectiveness.

In February, verbal dispute on campus that almost turned physical between the two leaders resulted in classes suspended for at least one day at the school.

An "unfortunate breakdown in leadership" has disrupted school operations, the education ministry said, with the portfolio minister later condemning the disruptions.

A ministry team was assigned to address the problems.

- Adrian Frater

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