The school year 2024-2025 is upon us with all its challenges, especially with the onslaught of Hurricane Beryl and its impact on so many schools across the island but especially those in Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland. Some of our Anglican Schools have suffered damages ranging from severe to minor and we trust that based on the pronouncements emanating from the Ministry of Education that they will be ready for receiving students on the first day of the academic year.
A new COVID variant has emerged in some countries and this presents another challenge for the school year. It is therefore important to continue to strengthen COVID-19 Protocols to protect our students from prolonged absences during this new school year.
The challenges arising from teacher shortage as a result of teacher migration cannot be underestimated and new and innovative measures will be needed to counter the negative impact of such situations. We must always bear in mind the importance of the teachers’ guidance in the classroom.
Lack of resources will also pose a challenge and more collaborative approaches among our schools will be necessary to overcome some of these obstacles. We thank the various organizations, foundations, Alumni groups and individuals for responding to some of the schools’ needs and pray that they will continue to support.
The Diocese through the Education & Youth Department commits to providing continued support through our School Chaplains, visits by Clergy and Laity, Training for Boards of Management and the hosting of workshops for teachers at the various levels of the system. All are aimed at enhancing the teaching and learning experience within the institutions.
We urge our Secondary institutions to collaborate in teacher development especially in the areas of Science and Languages. Remember, that together we can achieve the utmost.
In this the 200th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Diocese of Jamaica and The Cayman Islands we look forward to our High Schools in concert at Church Teachers’ College and also our Deanery Gatherings with our Primary and Preparatory Schools in November.
We urge our Principals to develop greater interpersonal skills with staff and students. Remember when people feel loved, respected and appreciated they will always redouble their efforts in fulfilling the goals of the institution. We are operating in an environment where much is expected even while people are experiencing emotional, physical and financial difficulties. Remember self-care is needed in order to provide stability within the system.
Boards of Management must work towards unity of purpose as you help to develop the policies guiding the institution. Our children remain the greatest asset of our nation. As leaders we must show them that we care through the quality services we provide.
Let us endeavour to develop and sharpen their skills, talents, attitudes and values. Our aim must be to produce worthwhile citizens for Jamaica land we love by making our schools, “Schools of choice for families.”
Every blessing for a successful 2024-2025 school year.
Yours sincerely,
DIVISION OF ANGLICAN SCHOOLS
Ena Barclay (Mrs.), JP
Director – Anglican Schools
