The attendance of teachers and students at some schools in the St. Catherine North police division was not affected on the first school day since the state of emergency was declared.

Principal of St. Jago High School Collette Pryce says the full population turned out for school this morning (Mar 19).

However, those travelling from Linstead and Old Harbour turned up late for classes.

She explains that she arranged for a police officer to visit the school today, to sensitize students and teachers about what to expect during the state of emergency.

Mrs. Pryce says though the first day went well, the state of emergency will have a negative effect on after school programmes.

St. Jago high participates in champs, conducts sport training after school and hosts evening classes for students.

She notes that activities will end early to keep within the time frame of operating hours under the state of emergency.

Mrs. Pryce explains that though the state of emergency will affect some activities, it is welcomed.

Irie FM News also spoke to a representative from the St. Catherine primary school who stated that school operations were normal today.

The full school population was in attendance.

The representative notes that after school activities will not be suspended, however, it is uncertain if parents will allow their children to stay behind.

And, for the Windsor school for Special Education in Spanish Town, teacher Andrea Easy says teachers explained to students what a state of emergency is and what to expect during such an event.

She notes that many of the students do not travel independently.

Meantime, residents in the St. Catherine North police division have welcomed the state of emergency.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the state of emergency yesterday, following what has been described as an upsurge in crime and violence.

Police say 48 murders have been recorded in the division since the start of the year.

Resident of St. John’s Road and business owner Marcia Godfrey says she feels safer now

And, Taneisha says the state of emergency is long overdue.

The state of emergency will last 14 days in the initial phase