Principal embroiled in racial discrimination controversy resigns

A high school principal in Maryborough in regional Victoria has tendered her resignation after the fallout from a race saga involving students’ African-style braids.

There was backlash after Highview College students Amayah and Safhira were suspended for not adhering to school dress codes.

The principal of a regional secondary school at the centre of a racial discrimination controversy has resigned.

Highview College in Maryborough faced backlash in July last year after principal Melinda Scash suspended two sisters of African descent from the school for not adhering to school dress codes due to their hairstyles.

Ms Scash had been the principal of the school since 2016, but had been on paid leave since June 9 as the school undertook an independent review of health, safety and procedures.

Her resignation comes as the findings of the review are being prepared to be delivered.

According to a statement from the school, reported by the ABC, the review is “informed by a range of legal, practical, and privacy considerations, with the best interests of the school community at its centre”.

“Melinda has since tendered her resignation, which has been accepted by the board, effective immediately,” Highview College’s acting board chair Miriam Codognotto said.

“The board recognises the contribution made by Melinda to the school, especially during the pandemic.

“We thank her for her commitment to the investigation process, her candour and openness to provide a safe workplace, and her continuing respect for staff, students, and the school community.”

Avoca residents Amayah and Safhira Rowe, who are of African descent, were asked to leave the independent school in July of 2022 after Ms Scash asked them to tie back their African-style braids.

The girls, aged 16 and 17 at the time, were later told that they were suspended from the school, despite both being in the midst of their VCE studies.

Their mother Rebecca Rowe said her daughters had braided their naturally thick hair in the “protective style” prior to the incident and it had never been a problem.

But principal Melinda Scash said at the time that wearing the braids down was not compliant with the uniform policy and that the girls were not being excluded.

Ms Rowe said her daughters tried to explain the weight of wearing their hair tied up at the back caused headaches and back and neck strain, while tying it loosely would simply not contain it.

“The principal stated that she made the rules, was not willing to negotiate and if they didn’t like it they could leave the school,” Ms Rowe said.

“She then banned them from classes and asked me to take them home.”

It is understood that Amayah and Safhira Rowe now attend different schools.