Early Childhood Commission Comes to St. Margaret’s Bay Basic School

The Early Childhood Commission (ECC) is staying focused. Amidst all the difficult and disturbing news regarding our children and all the challenges to be overcome, the Commission keeps going. It has now certified 26 early childhood institutions (that is, basic schools, nurseries and kindergartens) in all twelve standards, and aims to certify 300 more by 2019. By August this year, the ECC hopes to certify 100 institutions; twenty or so are already close to fulfilling all the requirements. This is quite a tall order, indeed; but goals are good, even ambitious ones. The ECC has been training field officers and inspectors and has also held two Certification Fairs, providing all the information that teachers and owners of the 2,700 or so early childhood institutions in Jamaica would need. I attended the first such fair in Kingston last year; it was absolutely hectic, with a booth providing information on each of the standards. The third fair will be held in Black River, St. Elizabeth on February 17.

The twelve standards are rigorous – as they should be. They encompass developmental and educational programs, staffing, behavior management, the physical environment, equipment, health, nutrition and safety. The ECC always celebrates when it certifies a new institution – as it did recently in the seaside hamlet of St. Margaret’s Bay in Portland. I was unable to attend; however, I obtained these photographs, which tell a story of achievement for St. Margaret’s Bay Basic School, while the children share in the joy of the occasion. I am happy to share them with you.

Wishing the ECC team and its energetic Chair Trisha Williams-Singh all the best as they work for the education and welfare of our little ones…

Busy children at St. Margaret’s Basic School.

 

The irresistible children of St. Margaret’s Bay Basic School. (Photo: One Jamaica Foundation)

State Minister for Youth Floyd Green chats with the children of St. Margaret’s Bay Basic School.

State Minister Floyd Green (left) shares in the Early Childhood Commission (ECC) certification ceremony at the St Margaret’s Bay Basic School in Portland as Acting Executive Director of the ECC Karlene Degrasse-Deslandes (right), presents the certificate to principal of the school, Marcia Barnes (third left). Others (from second left) are: School Board Chair Kerri-Ann Edwards; ECC Chair Trisha Williams-Singh and One Jamaica Foundation Director Ann-Marie Vaz. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

St. Margaret’s Bay Basic School was established in 1956. Currently it has 35 children (17 boys and 18 girls), with a staff of four.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Director of One Jamaica Foundation, Mrs. Ann-Marie Vaz brought greetings. “When all schools are certified it means that all children across the island will start at a level playing field. That is important because at the end of the day, all children end up taking the same exam and we want to give children the same opportunity across the board.” (Photo: One Jamaica Foundation)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By the way, the ECC’s excellent website has a page with links to all legislation and regulations related to childcare and rights. Very useful!

For more information on the ECC, contact Ceila Morgan, Communications Manager. Tel: 922-9296/551-1803; email: communications@ecc.gov.jm OR cmorgan@ecc.gov.jm