Zion Hill Primary Honours Educator for Long Service

The Zion Hill Primary School in Manchester recently honoured former Acting Principal, Yvonne Lovelace for 37 years of service to that institution.
Mrs. Lovelace, who also served as Vice Principal, was bestowed with accolades at a function held at the school where scores of persons from the business, civic, and political communities turned out to recognize the stalwart for her years dedicated to teaching; and her role in steering Zion Hill Primary to winning awards in the Ministry of Education, and Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) competitions in traditional dance.
In his tribute, Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Audley Shaw, described Mrs. Lovelace as a loyal and dedicated teacher who sought to do her best for the school and students.
“The standards that she set have helped those teachers who have followed her to face the many challenges that our schools are facing from misguided children, and adults who prey on the schools at times. Again, we feel proud to be celebrating the 37 years of service to the community which is an outstanding contribution that you have given,” Minister Shaw stated.
Guest Speaker, Disaster Preparedness Coordinator for Manchester, Claudia Coley said Mrs. Lovelace was deserving of the honour for impacting the lives of many individuals with whom she came into contact. “This honouring ceremony is befitting of one who spent so many years in the classroom changing lives. Every once in a while, we come upon a teacher who believes in people and will do their best to make good out of them, even when they are beset by challenges and distractions. Listening to all that has been said, it is clear that Mrs. Lovelace was such a teacher, and (a) treasure in this community. She has made a difference in the lives of many and we should use the good deeds that she has done to shape future generations,” Ms. Coley said.
Mrs. Lovelace who obtained a Certificate in Primary Education from the Mico Teachers’ College (now Mico University College) in 1971, a Diploma in Primary Education from Church Teachers’ College, and a Diploma in School Management from the Management Institute for National Development (MIND), told the gathering that she was humbled by the recognition received.
“I did what I thought I was employed to do.(which is) go the extra mile for children placed into our care. I never thought that I would receive this kind of gesture, but I thank you all for remembering my work,” Mrs. Lovelace said.