PTA head says no Clarks at schools

The principal of a Corporate Area high school has dismissed claims that the institution has banned Sprayground bags and Clarks shoes, following the circulation of a viral video suggesting otherwise.

The principal confirmed there is no such prohibition, though concerns remain about whether expensive fashion items put students at risk of being robbed. But for Stewart Jacobs, president of the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica (NPTAJ), the issue is bigger than style. He pointed to the controversy two years ago when students carried 'dunce'-branded bags, sparking national outrage and intervention from the association.

"Thank God good sense prevailed, and we no longer see that bag," Jacobs told THE STAR. "The same thing with this one, there has to be a clear understanding of what we communicate to our children. What comes out of our schools will determine our society in another 10 years."

The clash over school fashion is not new. Jamaica has seen repeated flashpoints over hairstyles, skirt lengths, and sneakers versus shoes rules, often forcing parents and administrators to balance discipline, identity, and cultural pride. Jacobs said the NPTAJ continues to support restrictions when necessary.

Jacobs also stressed that expensive accessories can endanger students.

"It has been happening for years where students are targeted for the brand name shoes or bag," he said. "As I tell the parents, keep it simple. Buy simple bags, buy simple shoes. The children are going to school not to be a brand exposition; they are going to school to learn."

In the past, police have warned that schoolchildren wearing high-value brands are easy prey for thieves while on their way to and from classes. Parents of the school echoed the same concern.

One mother told THE STAR that she deliberately avoids high-priced brands for her son.

"Mi cya risk it. If him come home wid less than wha him lef wid, mi heart cya tek it," she said.

The question of Clarks shoes carries special weight in Jamaica, where the brand has long been tied to status and style, and even immortalised in reggae and dancehall lyrics. But Jacobs urged moderation.

"Don't buy a Clarks and send your child to school. Clarks are expensive. Let them wear it on weekends, to church, or to a family gathering, but not for school," he advised. "Teach them to study hard and work to buy themselves a Clarks. Don't give it to them too early."