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Yesterday we told you that the principal of Belize High School, Jamie Lee Usher, was terminated, effective immediately. Reports are that 13 staffers wrote to the Board Of Governors allegations of mistreatment. She had helmed the school for 14 years, since its founding.
Today the board issued a press release saying that they confirmed her departure and thanked her for her years of service and contribution to the development of the school. They also said that in the interim, Majiba Sharp, who is the principal of the elementary school, will also take over as principal of the high school, with the assistance of the two vice principals.
And while Usher had the support of some of the parents and her husband, Minister Henry Charles Usher, who appeared on the school compound yesterday, today, the PUP's United Women Group issued a really unusual release in solidarity with her.
The release states quote, "Usher's removal from her position sends a chilling reminder of the challenges women face in leadership roles, especially within the educational sector… The news of Usher's termination has deeply saddened and angered the members of the United Women's Group, who recognize the systemic barriers and biases that often hinder women's advancement in leadership positions." End quote.
They are now calling upon the BHS administration to provide transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding Usher's termination and to ensure fair and equitable treatment to all employees regardless of gender.
