Grooming policies should protect discipline and dignity

THE EDITOR, Madam:

School dress code debates are back into the spotlight, with discussions around student rights and fairness. Reports of students being kept out of class or disciplined over hairstyles, clothing, or even sweaters during colder weather have raised valid concerns about whether some policies are still fair and respectful of children’s rights.

The Fi We Children Foundation has been a key voice in this conversation. They’ve rightly warned against practices that punish students for grooming issues and have called for clearer, kinder national standards. Many parents and teachers feel the same: discipline should never come at the cost of a student’s dignity or access to education.

While rules are necessary to keep schools safe, organised, and respectful, overly strict or culturally insensitive policies can push students away and undermine the very values they aim to uphold.

Jamaica’s rich cultural diversity is shown in how students style their hair and express themselves. Policies need to recognise this while still encouraging neatness, modesty, and safety. Uniforms shouldn’t mean suppression, and discipline should help students grow, not punish them.

As someone responsible for discipline, I believe clear standards are important, but they should be fair, involve dialogue, and respect students’ well-being. Safety concerns should be addressed with practical, evidence-based rules, not public shaming or bans.

Right now, there’s a real chance for schools, parents, policymakers, and child rights advocates to team up and review grooming rules. Our aim should be to set standards that keep order and learning safe, while also supporting kids’ identity, self-esteem, and rights.

If Jamaica wants to improve education, the rules must reflect our cultural values, democratic ideas, and commitment to inclusion. Only then can discipline help students grow, develop character, and contribute to national progress.

RICARDO SMITH