It's not an uncommon occurrence, but it usually affects boys, since most rule books say their hair must be low. However, today girls were also sent home from ACC for their braids.

Three fourth form students spoke to us off record, saying that the principal, Paulette Augustus, told them that their hair was too long. The school called their parents, but since all three girls were not from the city, they told our team they had to wait for their bus at 3:30 to go home. Until then, they were not allowed on the compound, and had to leave. They also told us they would prefer not to remove the braids since there is nothing in their rule book about that particular hairstyle.

We note that for girls, the handbook says, quote, "hair must be neatly combed; dyed and tinted hair must appear natural and cannot be a distraction to other students; elaborate hairstyles that may cause distraction are discouraged; hairstyles with beads and excessive decorations are not allowed." End quote.

Other students - reportedly more than a dozen - from first to fourth form were also sent home. We note as well that this practice of sending home students for their hair has been discouraged in the past by the Minister of Education.