‘School is not a fashion runway,’ declares Education Minister

Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Dr Dana Morris Dixon, has emphasised the importance of maintaining order in schools while acknowledging the cultural significance of hairstyles in Jamaica.

Addressing ongoing national discussions about school grooming policies, she reminded that schools are “not fashion runways.”

The minister’s comments come as the Ministry of Education investigates a recent controversy at McGrath High School in St Catherine. A male student alleged that school administrators barred him from attending due to the length of his hair. Meetings with the student’s parent are planned as part of the inquiry.

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Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, Morris Dixon underscored the balance between discipline and self-expression.

“Order has to be maintained at educational institutions, while we understand students’ need to express themselves in different ways, including hair and dress,” she stated. “But the key thing we know is that school is not a fashion runway. School is a place of learning, and our focus is on ordered learning in our schools.”

Morris Dixon revealed that the ministry has updated its grooming policy and prepared a new draft following a court case, details of which she did not disclose. The draft is currently being reviewed by principals, student council representatives, and churches as part of a consultation process.

“This grooming policy has not been an easy one,” she admitted. “As a young person, I thought school rules were too harsh. Many young people feel this way, but we must ensure that rules are fair and that schools remain orderly.”

The minister also highlighted the broader societal context, stressing the need for discipline in schools amidst growing disorder.

“We understand that times change, and you have to look at things differently. That’s why we have ongoing consultations,” Morris Dixon said.

The discussions around grooming policies continue to spark debate, reflecting the challenge of balancing tradition, discipline, and modern expressions of individuality in Jamaica’s schools.