Classes at Knockalva High School suspended following protests

Classes at the Knockalva Technical High School in Ramble, Hanover have been suspended for the day as disgruntled residents block roadways in protest.

It is estimated that some 800 students and their teachers have been affected as the roadway from Shettlewood in Hanover into Mackfield, Westmoreland is impassable due to debris.

It is reported that residents are protesting poor road conditions and water troubles that have plagued various communities for sometime. 

Gregory Brown, principal at Knockalva High, says the school had to activate its internal emergency system and alert parents of the situation so that they could help ensure children were safe.

“We are out for the day, and we are monitoring the situation as we go along. Hopeful things can clear up, and we will be back in tomorrow,” Brown said.

He told The STAR that sometime after 4:00 this morning, when he was made aware of the protest and the blocking of the roads, communication was made with their stakeholders to get them off the road.

The  principal also said the protest has affected his staff at all levels. So much so, that his vice principal, who lives about a quarter mile from the school, had to walk to school.

Bewildered and frustrated residents got support from some public passenger vehicle operators as they used downed trees, stones, drums, and uncollected garbage to block the roadway.

- Albert Ferguson

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