STETHS Halts In-Person Classes After Series of Campus Fights

ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) in Santa Cruz shut down regular classes for Thursday after a number of violent incidents on Wednesday, including one confrontation that was reportedly linked to a knife.

In a notice sent to parents and guardians, Principal Keith Wellington said access to the school compound would be limited to students sitting external examinations and those helping with a sports championship. “Please be advised that following a series of incidents on campus today (Wednesday) the administration has taken the decision to suspend physical classes for Thursday, May 7, 2026. As a result, all students must stay at home and complete any assignment given by their subject teachers. This action has been taken to protect the safety of all members of the school community and ensure that provisions are made to maintain discipline,” the advisory read in part.

Early information indicates that around mid-morning on Wednesday, one student was hurt during an altercation that led to police intervention. Sources added that after that episode, several additional fights were reported at the school, including clashes that happened in front of senior administrators.