The recent decision by administrators at St. Andrew High School for Girls to ban oversized “edges” sparked a nationwide discussion. The school likened the practice to curtains, suggesting that certain hairstyles belong in the home, not the classroom. While some applauded the school for maintaining standards, others argued that such restrictions stifle individuality and unfairly target cultural expressions of beauty and reopened a painful and important national conversation about schools, identity, discipline and fairness. The response in Jamaica was immediate and divided: some praised the school for protecting standards; others argued the rule criminalizes self-expression and risks disproportionately targeting girls and cultural styles. The Ministry of Education’s public stance, that no child should be sent home over hairstyle or clothing, made the debate more volatile, leaving schools, parents and students unsure where authority and compassion meet. It left many schools feeling powerless to enforce policies while students and parents grew uncertain about where the line should be drawn.
This debate is not, however, unique to Jamaica. Around the world, schools wrestle with how to balance student self-expression with the need for order, discipline, and academic focus. The Ministry of Education’s prior directive, that no child should be barred from school due to hairstyle or clothing, added further tension.
Why Does This Happen
Adolescence is a period of identity formation. Fashion, hairstyles, and even viral trends often become symbols of belonging and self-confidence. For some students, “edges” are more than a hairstyle they represent pride, creativity, and cultural identity. Yet, schools also serve as institutions that prepare students for structured environments. Employers, universities, and professional spaces all have expectations, and discipline in school often mirrors those realities.
At the same time, inconsistency in adult modeling creates mixed messages. When teachers come to school in tight clothing, brightly colored hairstyles, or even their own styled “edges,” students question the fairness of restrictions placed on them. If adults are not modeling professionalism, can we truly expect children to take these rules seriously
Moving Toward Solutions
Instead of choosing sides, we must move toward solutions that acknowledge both the need for student expression and the authority of schools. Some strategies include:
- Parenting Webinars and Workshops
Schools and communities should create safe spaces for parents to learn how to support their children’s identity while respecting school policies. Conversations about balancing freedom with boundaries are essential. - Limited Expression Opportunities
Schools can designate specific days, events, or allowances where students may express their individuality more freely, such as cultural days or personal style Fridays. This small compromise helps students feel seen without undermining structure. - Teacher Training and Accountability
Teachers are role models. Professional development should emphasize not only teaching methods but also the importance of modeling appropriate appearance and conduct. If schools demand neatness from students, the same must be reflected in their staff. - Partnership Between Parents and Schools
Rules should not feel like punishments but agreements. Parents should be encouraged to discuss policies with their children and support schools in maintaining order, while schools should listen to the voices of families and students when setting guidelines.
Creating Safe Spaces
Ultimately, this issue is not about edges alone—it is about the kind of environment we want for our children. A safe space is one where students can grow academically, emotionally, and socially. This requires rules, yes, but also compassion and dialogue. By involving parents, training teachers, and giving students respectful outlets for self-expression, schools can maintain discipline without diminishing identity.
If you are a parent, teacher, school leader, or community organization seeking guidance on how to navigate these complex issues, I can help. Through workshops, PTA sessions, and community conversations, I equip families and educators to build environments where children thrive in both discipline and self-expression. Let us work together to ensure that our schools remain safe spaces for growth and excellence.
The edges debate is about more than hair, it’s about identity, respect, and the messages we pass on to the next generation. If you’re a parent, educator, or organization ready to open up these deeper conversations and empower young people to embrace who they are, I can help. As a Behavioral Specialist and Speaker, I offer workshops, coaching, and training tailored to your needs. Let’s work together to shift mindsets and create lasting impact. Click here to contact me today (www.tenafernandez.com).
Photo Credit: St. Andrew High School for Girls