St. Andrew High School denies barring students from school for "baby-hair" style

Keeva Ingram, Principal St. Andrew High School for Girls has denied that students are being barred from entering the school because of the wearing of edges (baby-hair hairstyle).

Reports of the banning of the hairstyle have sparked widespread attention at home and abroad, circulating on several US-based social media platforms, with users expressing mixed reactions; some in support, and others questioning the move.

Ingram, speaking Tuesday on Radio Jamaica’s Beyond the Headlines, explained that the ban followed concerns raised by some parents, while stressing that the school's primary focus remains on developing future leaders.

The Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network, has condemned any “draconian” measure against students for breaches of school for uniform or grooming infractions, arguing that it endangers students, disrupts education, and is disproportionate.

Policy and Advocacy Coordinator, Shanielle Allen, also speaking on Beyond the Headlines, urged the Ministry of Education to limit such punishments and instead promote child-centered approaches to discipline.

On Monday, the Ministry of Education announced that it was investigating reports of students being locked out of schools across the island as the 2025–26 academic year began.

These students were reportedly barred for breaching uniform and grooming guidelines.