Policemen on guard outside the principal's office at Fair Prospect High. - Gareth Davis

Police cordoned the principal of Fair Prospect High School in Portland Monday as irate parents and residents protested the dismissal of two teachers.

The police party formed a circle around Godfrey Flemmings, seconds after the angry mob made a threatening advance towards the headmaster.

It was a tense situation that prevailed for most of the day as the mob appeared determine to get its way.

Students, obviously disappointed with the suspension of classes, looked on in awe.

Others though, joined in with the protesters.

an unfair decision

"We had no intention of harming him," commented parent Jennifer Small.

"It is an unfair decision to dismiss the teachers, who have had years of service and are considered to be hard-working, committed, and competent. As you can see, dozens of students are upset about the whole thing, and we as parents are out here to show solidarity for the two female teachers."

The early morning unrest resulted in the main gate leading to the school being pad-locked.

As the protesters grew in number and were joined by dozens of students, additional policemen were quickly despatched to the institution.

The teachers, Christine Burke and Sharon Murdock-Panton, were reportedly fired by the school board last Wednesday for allegedly fighting. Burke worked at the school for about five years and Murdoch-Panton, 20.

Flemmings said the board decided such behaviour was unacceptable.

"It is unfortunate to see parents behaving in this manner," he said.

"I am appealing for calm, as the students are the ones who will suffer in the long run."