Welcome Reopening of Several Schools in St. Elizabeth for 2024/25 Academic Year

A significant number of primary schools across St. Elizabeth defied the odds wrought by Hurricane Beryl to open their doors for the 2024/25 academic year, which got under way on Monday (September 2).

In a show of resilience and community effort, 12 of the parish’s 18 primary schools were able to commence the new year without any challenges.

Another four, which were severely damaged during the hurricane’s passage just south of Jamaica on July 3, were also able to resume classes, while the remaining two are expected to do likewise shortly.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, who is Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth South Western, said among the institutions that have been able to welcome back students are Black River Primary and Infant School, Mountainside Primary School, Hopewell Primary School and Pedro Plains Primary School.

He advised, however, that Sandy Bank Primary School and Fullerswood Primary and Infant School are still undergoing repairs of hurricane-inflicted damage, adding that these institutions are expected to reopen in another week.

Meanwhile, teachers and parents are grateful for the relatively smooth start to the new school year.

At Pedro Plains Primary and Infant School, where a significant portion of the roof was destroyed during the hurricane’s passage, Principal, Wilton Smith, said approximately 70 per cent of the students and all teachers had returned.

“As you look around, you’ll see that the children are happy. They’re happy to be back at school and to be associating with their friends,” he stated.

Parents have also expressed their appreciation for the hard work by the Government to get the schools ready.

Juven Salmon-Blake highlighted the stark contrast between the devastation they witnessed in July and the near-complete repairs now being carried out.

“Hurricane Beryl came, and it hit us hard, and it hit the school hard. However, surprisingly, when I came [Monday] morning at Pedro Plains Primary School, it was just minor work to be done, coming from what Hurricane Beryl [did] to the school,” she explained.

“So, yes, it’s a good look, and so I’m happy. Thank God it is open… so that the children can be out for school,” Ms. Salmon-Blake added.

Principal of Black River Primary and Infant School, Sharon Whyte, indicated that although the hurricane severely damaged their roof and repairs were not yet complete, they were grateful to be able to start the new academic year.