A threatened ban on several fifth-form students attending graduation at the Antigua Girls’ High School has been rescinded following intervention by the Ministry of Education.

Principal Rosalind Beazer had reportedly warned that students who breached a directive prohibiting hair extensions, braids, weaves and hair colour would be excluded from the ceremony. The issue surfaced after some students were sent home during a scheduled yearbook photo session because their hairstyles were deemed non-compliant.

The proposed sanction sparked public debate, with some residents describing it as excessive. Director of Education Clare Browne later stated on state television that denying graduation over a minor infraction would be disproportionate.

A meeting with parents and students was subsequently held, during which the graduation ban was formally withdrawn. However, affected students were reportedly required to write letters of apology to be read to school administrators and their classmates.

The meeting also addressed allegations that a senior educator ran her hands through some students’ hair. While a deputy principal denied the claims, two students reportedly identified the educator. One parent further alleged that one student was stripped of her prefect badge and another removed from the graduation planning committee.

Parents have expressed relief that the students will now be allowed to graduate. Fifth-formers are scheduled to begin study leave on April 16 ahead of the May/June CSEC examinations.