Teachers should be judged on their ability to foster learning, not on physical appearance or health status.
March 14, 2025
Breaking the scale of workplace discrimination
Dear Editor,
Jamaica, like our Caribbean neighbours, continues to struggle with the mass exodus of educators seeking better opportunities abroad. Historically, migration has been driven by financial constraints and scarce classroom resources, but today’s teachers face an even more formidable obstacle: discrimination.
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Whether in hiring practices, promotions, or access to professional development opportunities, many educators encounter bias that erodes morale and diminishes their sense of value. These compounded challenges not only jeopardise the stability of Jamaica’s education sector but also threaten the future of our students. An already stymied education system — from the effects of COVID-19 — cannot risk further disfigurement long term due to subjective devices during the recruitment process.
Take for example the case of Kirkton Bennett. Bennett, who is an experienced and qualified educator, alleges that during a job interview at a high school he faced mounting criticism related to his size and current health condition, the implication being that he may not be fit for the role because of these factors. While the specifics of that interview remain unclear, the fact that such personal issues were brought up for discussion is deeply troubling.
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From the outside, we can only speculate about what transpired in that room; however, what is undeniable is the broader issue at play — discrimination. In any form, discrimination should never have a place in hiring decisions, especially within the education sector. The qualifications, experience, and passion of an educator should be the primary criteria for any job, not personal characteristics that are irrelevant to his/her ability to teach and inspire.
This incident, whether or not it unfolded exactly as described, highlights a concerning trend that could have far-reaching consequences. When we allow such bias to seep into our hiring practices, we not only undermine the integrity of our education system but also risk depriving students of the best possible educators.
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Teachers should be judged on their ability to foster learning, not on physical appearance or health status.
Dujean Edwards
dujeanedwards@gmail.com
