Principal Rosalind Beazer has withdrawn a threat to block several Antigua Girls’ High School students from graduation. The decision followed swift intervention from the Ministry of Education.

The issue began last Thursday. Fifth-form students arrived on campus for a scheduled yearbook photo session. They are preparing for the upcoming Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate exams.

However, school officials sent several students home. Staff said their hairstyles broke school rules. The directive bans hair extensions, braids, weaves, and hair colour.

As a result, tensions quickly rose. Parents said Principal Beazer objected to creative styles that added length or volume. She allegedly warned the students they could miss graduation.

Soon after, the matter sparked public debate. Some residents called the policy outdated. Others argued that schools must enforce clear standards.

Meanwhile, Director of Education Clare Browne addressed the issue on state television. She distanced the Ministry from the proposed punishment. Moreover, she said the response seemed excessive.

“If a student has shown good conduct for five years, one small breach should not block graduation,” Browne explained.

Following that statement, the principal met with parents, guardians, and students. During the meeting, she confirmed the Ministry’s position. Students cannot lose graduation over hairstyle violations.

Therefore, the school withdrew the threat. Parents welcomed the reversal. They said it brought relief to families and students alike.

Still, the matter did not end there. Students who broke the hairstyle rule had to write apology letters. They must read the letters to the principal, her deputies, and their classes.

In addition, the meeting addressed another serious claim. Some parents alleged that a senior educator touched students’ hair without consent. One deputy principal denied the accusation. However, two students reportedly identified the educator.

After the meeting, concerns continued. One parent claimed the school stripped one student of her prefect badge. Another student reportedly lost her place on the graduation planning committee.

Even so, families remain relieved. The students will now complete their secondary education without further disruption.

Fifth-form students will begin study leave on April 16, 2026. Soon after, they will sit the May and June CSEC exams administered by the Caribbean Examinations Council.