Maggotty High Honours Retired Teachers

Nine teachers, who have retired from Maggotty High School, in St. Elizabeth, were honoured recently, for upwards of over 30 years service to the institution.
At the ceremony, which was held at the school, the educators were lauded for contributing significantly to the academic success of the school, which is one of the newly upgraded high schools in the island.
Principal of Glen Stewart Primary School, Lorena Robinson, said the retirees have done the education system proud, in putting the needs of their students at the forefront of their calling.
“You are amongst the cadre of special persons whom God has called to channel the proper course that our young people should take…It is unchallengeable that your satisfaction did not come from your monthly remuneration, but from the achievements of the many students who benefitted from your wealth of knowledge and good deeds,” Mrs. Robinson said.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Velma Thomas said: “We are very honoured that you did not scatter roses when we are gone, but thought to recognise us while we are alive. Everything was good this evening, we have had some good times here at Maggotty, which dated back to 1974. The years spent here will always be with us, we thank you for the plaques and we will display them for posterity. You who are in the classroom, today, surround yourselves with the armour of God, to help you tackle the many problems that you face,” Miss Thomas said.
Community Relations Officer at the Ministry of Education, Charmaine Gooden-Monteith, said the many years that the retirees spent at the school, demonstrated that they possessed passion and were dedicated to the institution.
“It speaks volumes about your dedication and your passion for the profession. Real teachers and educators are passionate about education and teaching. Here in Jamaica, teachers perform a variety of roles, such as mother, father, and other functions. This appreciation function encompasses the various teams working in the organisation, and the external partners in education,” Mrs. Gooden-Monteith said.
Those honoured were: Melda Graham, Garfield Lyn, Sharon Woodstock, Velma Thomas, Lurline Watkins, Marvermie Whyte-Clarke, Keith Williams, Claris Cornwall, and Phillidia Hutchinson.