The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information is advising that schools in the Spanish Town area may reopen for face-to-face classes on Friday, following violent unrest in the old capital.

In a release late Thursday, the ministry said the decision was made after extensive consultations with the security forces. However, it urged schools to make individual assessments of their security risks.

“The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has signalled that they will be maintaining a robust security presence in and around affected communities. In light of this development, all schools in the area are urged to carefully review their individual security situations and make decisions that prioritise the safety and well-being of students and staff,” the ministry said.

It also urged principals to maintain close communication with local law enforcement personnel and parents to assess and address any lingering concerns.

“The ministry will continue to collaborate with the security forces to monitor the situation closely and respond swiftly to any developments. The safety and security of our students and school personnel remain our highest priority,” the release stated, adding “We thank parents, guardians, educators and students for their patience, cooperation, and vigilance during this period of uncertainty.”

Several schools including St Jago High, Homestead Primary, Eltham Park Primary, St Catherine High School, and Burmar Academy had to close for the day due to the violent flare-up over the killing of an alleged leader of the notorious One Order Gang.

READ: Reputed One Order Gang leader shot dead by police

Other schools, including Ardenne High in St Andrew, had to close early to release students and staff who live in and around Spanish Town, allowing them to get home early.