Good start to the new school year

Students and teachers returned to the classroom on Monday morning for the start of the 2010/2011 academic year after the long summer break.

In the Corporate Area and St. Catherine, as is customary at this time of the year, parents could be seen hustling their children through the school gate before the clang of the school bell, signalling the call for the start of devotion.

Strong motivation

John Mills Infant, Primary and Junior High School kicked off the morning with the customary devotion and a motivational speech by a representative of the Open Area Campaigners.

Principal, Jennifer Reynolds says the motivational speech presented a good start for the school.

“We have started out very well. We put many things in place, we had orientation last week for new students, we had meetings, staff development sessions for teachers,”

“We know that we will have challenges, we always have challenges, but we are ready, we are putting our shoulders to the wheel, we are looking forward and are anticipating a very successful year,” Ms. Reynolds said.

Furniture challenges       

Over at the Bridgeport High School, Principal Aston Messam says there was a small problem with school furniture, however this was quickly addressed and students have settled in.

“Grade Seven have been here so far and in the afternoon, Grade 11 will be coming in. There are challenges as far as furniture is concerned, we have done a lot of work over the weekend, so at this point despite the challenges we are moving on,” Mr. Messam said.  

Security

In the meantime security is high on the agenda in most if not all schools.

School Resource Officer assigned to Bridgeport High School, District Constable Courtney Davis says officers will be placing major emphasis on gangs.     

“We are going to go very far where gangs are concerned we have a zero tolerance on that. We are looking forward for a safer school year where violence and fights will be minimised. We have the relevant resources. Right now there are plans to implement a bicycle patrol in and around the area, 24/7 so we have a more safe community for the students,” he said.

District Constable Davis says up to mid-day there were no reported incidents on the school compound.