UPDATE: No lockdown at Deighton Griffith Secondary; classes continue

The Ministry of Education has denied reports that the Deighton Griffith Secondary School is on lockdown, saying classes are continuing as normal as police investigate an incident involving a weapon on the compound earlier today.

In a statement issued just before midday, as parents gathered outside the gates of the Kingsland, Christ Church school, the ministry said the situation was under control.

“The school is settled after an early morning incident,” it said. “A student attempted to gain access to a sharp object but fortunately, the implement was retrieved. The police were called to the school and are investigating the matter. Officials from the ministry are also present. The Ministry of Education Technological and Vocational is awaiting a full report on the matter from the principal.

“Contrary to a social media post, the school is not on lockdown and school business continues uninterrupted.”

Several upset parents showed up at the school after news circulated online about a student being on the compound with a cutlass. However, they were not allowed to take their children, and they demanded an audience with the principal.

They were subsequently allowed in and are currently in discussions with ministry officials and the deputy principal.