President of the Jamaica Teachers Association, (JTA) Leighton Johnson says crime has gotten out of control, to the point where classes are being disrupted.

Last week, some schools in Grange Hill Westmoreland were forced to dismiss classes and resort to online learning, due to an upsurge in crime in the community and threats from gunmen.

Speaking at the launch of the Christiana High School police Youth Club on Monday Mr. Johnson the country’s crime rate is worrying.

He said schools have to be requesting resources to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Mr. Johnson said Jamaica’s crime rate must be lowered, and more emphasis must be placed on conflict resolution.