On Wednesday May 8, 2013 the Kingston College Parent Teachers Association (KCPTA) hosted yet another successful Teachers’ Day Award Luncheon at Alhambra Inn,1 Tucker Avenue, Kingston 6.
KCPTA president Stewart Jacobs welcomed the gathering comprising over 60 teachers, members of the KCPTA executive and KCOBA. Apology was tendered on behalf of Board chairman Michael Vaccianna. Principal Dave Myrie, who was making his first appearance at the luncheon since his appointment, indicated his intention to make the school a success and enjoined on the teachers to assist him in making the task attainable. Mindful of staff welfare, he promised to install new air-conditioning units in the staff room of both campuses as well as a full complement of desk and chairs to provide a more comfortable environment for the staff during the ensuing weeks.
Canon Abner Powell blessed the proceedings and this preceded the delectable selection of dishes buffet style which was enjoyed by all. Gospel singer Omari soothed the gathering with three of his selections: Father God Help, Jehovah Guide Me and Why?
Stratton Palmer, former KCOBA president, coach of the Manning and junior football as well the hockey teams was introduced as the guest speaker by KCOBA secretary, Nicole Bryan-Jacobs.
In his usual analytical and objective style, interspersed with anecdote and humor, Stratton proceeded to deliver an address that will be long remembered. Whilst he recognized the challenges facing teachers, he reminds them to teach a child as well as the subject. He reiterated the view held by many that education is the bedrock of successful nations and that such critical human capital most be harnessed as legacy assets. He ended by calling on all the stake holders to revive what obtained during his tenure as KCOBA president, i.e. integration and reaching out to the communities adjacent to KC through Community Health Care and treats for children. He implored for a second look at the restoration of Hardie House and echoed principal Myrie’s undertaking of a comprehensive welfare programme for the teachers.
Presentation of awards added bells, whistles and congratulatory hugs to the occasion. Mrs. Janice Fairclough had the distinction of being the first recipient of the inaugural and prestigious PTA President’s Award. According to president Stewart Jacobs this award is not the exclusive preserve of teachers but any member of the KC family whether teacher, parent or KCOB who has served the school with distinction and an exemplary role model.
24 year old biology teacher Dane Baxter who has been on staff for less than a year, leaped frogged to cop the male teacher of the year award. Here is a man who leaves his May Pen home at about 5 am every morning to reach KC in time to mark the register and ensure that all under his charge are punctual. English teacher at the Melbourne campus, Kadian Henry, was selected by her peers for the female teacher of the year award. Oh!! She loves to teach--with a passion.
KCPTA executive, Audrey Martin moved the vote of thanks. In his closing remarks, Stewart Jacobs gave the undertaking of his administration to relentlessly
pursue the following:
- Teacher incentive programme
- Increase the numbers of wards based on subject performance
Increase direct teacher involvement putting back the ‘T’ in the PTA
- A greater involvement of parents in the classroom as part of the paradigm shift