July 4, 2016 – During my time spent here in Jamaica, I experienced a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, gracious people and a love for life. In an effort to bond with her deeper, I find myself conflicted by the lack of access to basic rights such as educational opportunities,resources, exposure, and self exploration.
Working with KBC Learning founders Angela and Karl Bennett, I’ve gained a better understanding of the Jamaican school system. I found it to be similarly close to the United States’s standardized testing system. Students were not really given the opportunity to learn based on their learning styles, but more so granted an opportunity to attend college based on their CSC (comprehensive state exam) scores. Now even if students were to pass this test and receive entry into a university, they still would have the expense of finding funds for books, bus fare and uniforms. This poses as an obstacle for the families who are challenged financially. In an effort to problem solve, I spoke with high school students at Maxfield Park Children’s Home, which houses students in an effort to provide a stable home environment. Each student that I spoke with had a skill that they had mastered and a vision for the future. I instantly became fascinated with the thought process of students in Jamaica. Additional skills such as direct marketing, public relations, communications, and technology will support students in creating their own access through the use of their skills and talents. A few of the skills students possess are cosmetology, culinary, art, technology and sports.
Another aspect of access that is available at Maxfield Park is having a computer lab to support students in getting their academic work done more effectively. I believe it is important that we teach this generation of scholars how to use technology for more than just entertainment. Our students should be equipped with the ability to build and break down a computer, learn information technology systems and conduct research relevant to their development.
I believe that once our students can open their minds to exploring self, culture, and history, they can begin gaining access to their inner core. If one can access self, then creating access outside of self will be a journey from current realities to future possibilities.
Shnydine H, teacher at The SEED School DC