Broward School Board Member Jeff Holness claims to be a graduate of Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale. Holness, the newly-elected representative of District 5, makes the claim on his official Broward School District biography. He also made the claim on his 2022 campaign literature. The issue of Holness’ true alma mater was first raised by the Westside Gazette newspaper.

Now, REDBROWARD uncovered published reports and even a GoFundMe page revealing Holness is an alumnus of a Jamaican high school.

In September 2018, the official alumni website of Manchester High School in Jamaica gave details on the thirtieth reunion of the Class of 1988. The website thanked members of the Class of 88 who sponsored the reunion. Jeptha L. Holness is named as a “generous donor” to Manchester High.

Jeff Holness’ legal name is Jeptha Lotfield Holness.

In August 2017, Jeptha Holness created a GoFundMe page benefiting Manchester High School. Holness wrote, “We the MHS Class of 1988, welcome your supporting contributions, hand in hand with us, as we help the lights of current students to shine.”

In March 2012, Jeff Holness posted a photograph of friends on Facebook. Holness said enjoyed spending time with the male in photo. Holness described the man as “my good friend from high school days.”

According to the man’s Facebook account, he is a graduate of Manchester High School in Jamaica.

A review of Dillard High School yearbooks from 1987-1989 failed to show Holness as a student at the predominantly African-American school.

Why would Jeff Holness claim to be a graduate of Dillard High School if he really graduated from a Jamaican high school?

Why would Jeff Holness publish false information on his official school board biography?

We asked Jeff Holness to explain what is going on.

As of publication, Holness has not responded.