Principals of several Corporate Area schools say warring students will be punished

By Clinton McGregor 

 

Following violent clashes and growing tension among students of several Corporate Area schools, the principals of the schools have warned that those involved in the violence will be identified and punished.

 

In a joint statement Thursday afternoon, the Principals of Calabar High School, Mona High School, Jamaica College, St. George's College, Kingston College and Campion College expressed shock at a viral video showing students from the schools engaged in a violent brawl in the vicinity of the Transport Centre in Half Way Tree on Wednesday.

 

The Ministry of Education, school administrators and the police have intervened in the ongoing disputes that are threatening to spiral out of control.

 

The police say the physical altercations, which started last week, have escalated with incidents taking place in the Half Way Tree and Spanish Town areas.

 

Viral videos show boys throwing punches at locations, including the Half Way Tree Transport Centre, with one getting a wound to the face.

 

In the joint statement, the six principals say they are deeply concerned and saddened by the altercations that occurred between students in the Half-Way Tree bus park on Wednesday.

 

They argued that such behaviour is unacceptable and goes against the values of respect, civility, and cooperation that the schools strive to instill in the students.

 

The principals made it clear that a thorough investigation has been launched into the incident and that the students involved will face disciplinary action.

 

They added that they are collaborating with the police to ensure that appropriate legal action is also taken against the warring students.

 

The principals made it clear the schools will not tolerate violent students among their school population.

 

They argued that acts of violence or aggression have no place in educational institutions or public spaces.