KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) executive body at Ardenne Preparatory and Extension High School has resigned with immediate effect, citing unresolved concerns over governance, communication and financial accountability.

In a letter issued to the school community on Thursday, the executive said the decision followed months of unsuccessful attempts to engage the school board on key issues, particularly surrounding recent increases in school fees.

The development comes after parents were informed of the fee increases in a letter from the school on Wednesday, December 17, which the school attributed to rising costs in teacher salaries, classroom resources, technology and facility maintenance. It said these increasing expenses have outpaced income, which primarily comes from school tuition, resulting in a growing deficit.

As such, an increase in school tuition was proposed for January 2026— $150,000 per term for the preparatory division and $130,000 per term for the extension division.

According to the PTA executive, the school board demonstrated “a complete disregard” for the association during negotiations aimed at reaching a fair and amicable adjustment to fees. The executive also expressed dissatisfaction that the board announced the increases to parents by email before a previously scheduled and confirmed meeting between the board chair and the PTA president could take place.

The PTA further raised concerns about a lack of financial transparency, stating that no clear pathway had been presented to show how the fee increases would improve the school’s long-term cash flow or sustainability. The absence of clarity regarding the scale or timing of any future increases was also highlighted as a major concern for parents.

In its resignation letter, the executive reiterated support for teachers, administrative and auxiliary staff, stressing their importance to students’ wellbeing and success. The PTA also called for staff salaries to be brought in line with current market standards to attract and retain qualified professionals.

The executive further disclosed that net proceeds of $304,913 from the Christmas Concert held on December 10, 2025 will be handed over to the incoming PTA executive. The funds were raised to support the Resource Centre project, formerly the school library.