ADMINISTRATORS, PRINCIPALS UPBEAT AS CLASSES START
OCHO RIIOS, St Ann; Sept 9, 2025
Several schools across St. Ann are reporting a smooth and promising
start to the new academic year, including high turnout.
Some administrators noted that while the September 8 start of classes brought the usual early-year logistical challenges, the overall mood was buoyant and the preparation evident.
(Students at Ocho Rios Primary School, in St. Ann, on September 8).
Many schools across the parish had orientation and other administrative exercises last week, delaying classes because of the elections.
According to a JIS News report, following their contact with several schools, teachers and students appeared ready to tackle the new term with enthusiasm.
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(Principal of Ocho Rios Primary School in St. Ann, Suzette Barnes Wilson. She had surprise gifts)
At the heart of the day’s excitement was Ocho Rios Primary School, the parish’s largest primary institution. The school opened its doors to 500 first arrivals as a special incentive for the new term. The first 500 students to reach the campus received a gift.
Principal, Suzette Barnes Wilson said, “Even though we didn’t advertise what we had in store for the first 500 arrivals, we still had over a 90 per cent turnout on opening day. Our teachers are both ready and excited… our students are also thrilled to be back… this should be a very good school year,” she said.
(Proud mother, Sophia Wilmott, and daughter, Tanecia Mitchell, share a back-to-school moment at the Breadnut Hill Primary School in St. Ann on Monday, September 8).
At neighbouring Breadnut Hill Primary, the excitement continued as students settled in for the new term. Acting Principal, Reiness Marsh, emphasised the positive momentum, citing well-prepared classrooms, engaged teachers, and eager learners ready to participate in a full slate of core subjects and enrichment activities.
(Acting Principal of Breadnut Hill Primary School in St. Ann, Reiness Marsh).
One parent, Sophia Wilmott, whose child attends Breadnut Hill Primary, said, “It feels good to see the school ready for us, with a friendly environment and clear guidance for the new term. My daughter is excited about returning to school and is looking forward to the routines and the opportunities ahead.”
Another parent, Jennifer Brown, whose children attend Ocho Rios High School, expressed confidence in the broader educational path for their long-term success.
“Starting the year with solid arrangements for the younger students and clear communication from the school gives us peace of mind. We’re hopeful that this year will bring strong academic results and positive growth for all our children,” Ms. Brown told JIS News.
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