The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Staff Reporter

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

CHIEF Justice Michael Barnett yesterday heard closing arguments from both sides in the case between the 2013 graduating class of St John’s College and the Anglican Central Education Authority.

The graduates are seeking more than $2,000 for each student, for damage, emotional distress, and vexation resulting from the cancellation of the school’s 2013 graduation ceremony and prom.

Christina Galanos represents the 2013 St Johns graduates and Krystal Rolle represents the Anglican Central Education Authority.

Ms Galanos argued that the ACEA was in breach of a contract with students when it cancelled final activities.

However, Ms Rolle – who has maintained that there was no contract between the two parties – yesterday pointed to rules in the school’s handbook, which state 12th grade students are entitled receive a diploma, not a ceremony.

In her closing argument, Ms Galanos said that it was dangerous to punish an entire class after each student signed an individual contract.

Ms Galanos said that the school continued to receive payments for the graduation and prom, even after students were accused of misconduct.

She added that students should be awarded damages for being denied pleasure and enjoyment, a legitimate expectation of any graduating student.

According to the Chief Justice, the document clearly stated that the school board can exclude any student from the final activities without evidence, and also noted that it was the school’s discretion to make the decision.

The case will continue today.