MONT BELVIEU, Texas – A Texas high school student who was sent to an alternative school due to his hairstyle is taking his legal battle against Barbers Hill Independent School District (ISD) to the courts once again.
In February 2024, KPRC 2 digital reporter Moriah Ballard reported that a Chambers County judge ruled in favor of Barbers Hill ISD on the trial’s first day. The family of Darryl George claimed that the school’s actions violated the CROWN Act, which is designed to protect against discrimination based on natural hairstyles.
Previous Ruling
The initial ruling allowed Barbers Hill ISD to enforce its grooming policies, which led to Darryl’s family filing a lawsuit. Despite the district’s assertion that they were within their rights to enforce these policies, Darryl’s family has stood firm, arguing that his hairstyle, which is always kept neat and tucked away, should not be grounds for disciplinary action.
Continued Suspension
Following the lawsuit, Darryl remained in in-school suspension, a situation he describes as isolating and detrimental to his school experience.
“It feels lonely when you’re the only one stuck in a room for an entire semester, let alone a whole year,” Darryl said in February. “You see everyone else talking and laughing, and you can’t join in. It just adds pressure and makes you feel different.”
Appeal Announcement
Darryl’s mother, alongside their legal team, announced their intention to file an appeal in a live interview on KPRC 2+ Now. The family is determined to challenge the district’s stance and seek justice under the protections afforded by the CROWN Act.
Ongoing Battle
This case has garnered significant attention and has become a focal point in the broader conversation about cultural identity and discrimination. The legal battle is far from over, as both sides remain resolute in their positions.