School Leaders Urged to Get Involved in 4-H Clubs

Executive Director of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs, Ronald Blake, says teachers can use their involvement in the movement as leverage, when seeking employment in the school system.

“When practising teachers go for interviews as teachers, they can use their engagement in the 4-H Clubs to their advantage, and convince the leaders of the educational institution that you can add your knowledge and skills from the 4-H Clubs to their school curriculum and become an active 4-H leader,” he says.

Mr. Blake was addressing students and teachers at the St. Andrew 4-H Parish Achievement Day held at the Shortwood Teachers’ College in St. Andrew on March 17.

He added that involvement in the 4-H Clubs can boost a person’s ability to gain employment.

“You’re in the right place and in the right club. Do not think that your voluntary efforts are not of great benefit to you. Most of the persons whom I have seen move up as principal and vice principal were in fact 4-H leaders.”

He informed that being a 4-H leader accords persons applying for posts such as principals, meritorious points, which could be to their benefit in landing the job.

Mr. Blake encouraged the group to plan wisely, and become more involved in the 4-H Club. “Portfolio building is critical today as you look towards advancing your career. We are growing as a movement, and we are building on the contribution of those who have served before us as executives and as members,” he said.