MONT BELVIEU, Texas — A Barbers Hill teen will continue to serve in school suspension after a judge ruled in favor of Barbers Hill Independent School District over an alleged violation of the Texas Crown Act.
18-year-old Darryl George refused to cut his dreadlocks and today, Chambers County Judge Chap Cain ruled in favor of Barbers Hill ISD.
According to Cain the district was not in violation of the Texas Crown Act, which went into effect in September 2023, when the district reprimanded George.
"We are disappointed on the decision that was made," Dr. Candace Mathews of the Texas Democratic Black Caucus said. "Darryl will have to continue to be in in school suspension until the federal case kicks in."
In September the district argued that George's dreadlocks violated the dress and grooming code because it fell past a t-shirt collar, the eyebrows and the ear lobes.
"When I accompanied Darryl and his mother to the car, I saw a child that was confused and upset," State Representative Jolanda Jones said.
Jerrolyn Williams owns barber trade schools in Beaumont, she says no matter if you wear twists or dreads, it can all be professional.
"As long as your hair is cut, it's neat it's clean," Williams told 12News.
In Port Arthur the Tekoa Academy of Accelerated Studies of STEM changed their hair code three years ago.
"The kids can wear the braids or locks. Every school has a different reason and I'm not saying their right or wrong, I do agree that you can still get have your hair and get your education," Superintendent Princess Chretien told 12News.
The George family has vowed to appeal the case.
George's mother says that his hair, or his crown, is a reflection of his black culture.
After leaving today's ruling in a Chambers County courtroom George put his hood over his head with tears in his eyes.
Williams says George's lawyer is working on getting an adjunction done for the federal case.