Jamaica School Safety Concerns Rise After Hurricane Melissa Damage

Hurricane Melissa revealed a painful truth about Jamaica school safety. Many school buildings were not strong enough to survive intense winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge. As a result, shelters meant to protect families failed during the storm.
Almost 800 public schools were listed as community shelters. However, more than 600 sustained severe damage when the hurricane struck. Roofs flew off, walls collapsed, and debris filled classrooms. Many citizens had to abandon these unsafe shelters and search for safer places to stay.
Education researchers in the Jamaican diaspora feel deep concern. Their long-term studies highlight long-standing weaknesses in the education system. Watching footage online brought sadness, worry, and a sense of helplessness.
Reports from friends and family offered more troubling details. Communities in Hanover, Westmoreland, St. James, and St. Elizabeth described frightening conditions during the storm.

Systemic Gaps and Long-Term Underfunding

Months before the hurricane, several principals raised warnings about unsafe buildings. They noted poor sanitation, damaged facilities, and the lack of essential supplies. One principal even shared that her concerns were dismissed during official shelter assessments. Closing her school during the storm may have saved lives.
Government leaders claimed they prepared schools for a busy hurricane season. However, the widespread destruction suggested otherwise. Years of underfunding and strict austerity measures weakened Jamaica’s ability to maintain safe school infrastructure.
Education groups continue to advocate for greater investment. They argue that strong, resilient buildings are essential for student safety and learning.
Members of the Jamaican diaspora also want to help. By working directly with schools and communities, they hope to support long-term rebuilding. Their goal is to ensure that future generations learn in buildings strong enough to withstand extreme weather.