Tracey Facey
Sonia White or “Auntie Sonia” as she is affectionately called is a stalwart in the early childhood education sector.
Mrs. White has been principal of the Oracabessa New Testament Church Early Childhood Institution since 1982, and has a total of thirty five dedicated years to the education fraternity.
She recalled that thirty two years ago the institution started out with two students Tarren White now teacher at the institution and Fiona Hill. Aunty Sonia who later joined the school was determined to increase the number of students enrolled, so she journeyed to the neighbouring communities to tell parents about the institution that was dormant for a short period of time. Her visit was very effective. In less than two weeks, the school’s population grew to thirty six students and an additional teacher was also recruited.
Mrs. White was destined to become a teacher. She was exposed to teaching practice from an early age of fourteen at her alma mater Barnes Preparatory School, Canoe Pond, St. Mary. She told The Times that she loves children dearly. “They are my heart beat, especially three to six years old… the things they say!” She remarked.
The mother of three realized the transition in education and the need for qualifications and, at age fifty-two, upgraded herself with a diploma in early childhood education at the International University of the Caribbean (IUC).
White’s hard work and long service to education didn’t go unnoticed. She has been recognized by the St Mary Early Childhood Parish Board and she is the representative for the zone seventeen board for the Early Childhood Commission.
She has been parent to many of whom have attended the institution and nothing makes her prouder than to see her past students positively impacting society.
Kerrie Fearon-Pounal cardiologist /family doctor and Brandy Aaronson development officer in early childhood for zone seventeen are products of the institution.
Mrs White, a member of the Oracabessa New Testament Church of God, is deeply involved in her church. She is a member of the children’s ministry, choir member, former secretary and assistant superintendent of Sunday school.
The school started in 1973, with principal, Mrs. Taylor- Barrette and operated under the auspice of the church. Today, the forty-one year old institution has thirty four students on roll, three teachers and a cook who prepares nutritious meals for the children.
Mrs White expressed gratitude to her husband James White , the business community of Oracabessa and the church for their support to the school throughout the years.
The students are guided by the curriculum of the ECC which includes social grace, phonics, reading, field trips among other core skills and attitudes.
The school is financed by the tuition fees and fundraising activities.
When the North Coast Times asked Aunty Sonia what makes the school special, she smiled and answered that it is the quality teaching that they offer, her dedicated staff and because she is highly respected in the community, her lifestyle and the love she has for the children. She further stated “children are like flowers in a garden to me.” White implores the parents and guardians to play a more active and supportive role in the development of the future leaders.
