Anchovy Primary School and Ferncourt High School rise stronger after Hurricane Melissa

The National Education Trust (NET), an agency of the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth & Information (MoESYI), recently visited the Anchovy Primary School in St. James and the Ferncourt High School in Claremont, St. Ann, as rehabilitation efforts continue in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

Both institutions sustained significant infrastructural damage during the passage of the hurricane, impacting classrooms, roofing systems, and learning spaces critical to students and staff. Restoration works are now underway as part of the Government’s continued commitment to rebuilding schools and restoring safe, conducive learning environments across the island.

At the Anchovy Primary School, Principal, Mrs Cheryl Grant-Mitchell, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the intervention and the progress being made on the school compound.

“Whenever it rained, my office would become flooded. However, since the reroofing works commenced under the leadership of NET, I have not experienced that issue again. Our entire Grade 6 block is now being reroofed, Grade 3 is partially completed, and additional areas are also being addressed. We wish to sincerely thank the National Education Trust and the Ministry of Education for this intervention. It is truly appreciated nd means a great deal to our students, teachers, and wider school community. The workmen are on site and the work is progressing steadily,” she shared.

Speaking on the rehabilitation efforts at Ferncourt High School, Principal Mr Sheldon Thomas, welcomed the progress being made and the support being provided through the recovery initiative.

“I am pleased that the Ministry of Education and the National Education Trust recognised the need to prioritise Ferncourt High School as part of the rebuilding and recovery initiative. Reconstruction efforts are progressing well, and both students and staff who were affected by the storm are encouraged by the fact that work has commenced. I look forward to continued collaboration to ensure that our students continue to receive quality education in a safe and supportive environment,” he stated.

Executive Director of the National Education Trust, Mrs Latoya Harris-Ghartey, reaffirmed the commitment of NET to supporting schools impacted by Hurricane Melissa and ensuring that students are able to learn in safe and empowering spaces.

“Hurricane Melissa disrupted lives, damaged schools, and created uncertainty for many of our students and educators. However, through resilience, partnership, and collective action, we are rebuilding not only roofs and classrooms, but also hope, stability, and opportunity. Every school restored represents a renewed investment in the children of Jamaica and a reminder that their future remains a national priority,” Mrs Harris-Ghartey said.

As recovery efforts continue across Jamaica, NET remains steadfast in its mission to support the rebuilding of educational institutions and strengthen resilience within the sector. Through collaboration, commitment, and shared purpose, schools are being restored, and communities are being empowered once more.

The National Education Trust continues to encourage all stakeholders, partners, and supporters to remain invested in the rebuilding process, as together, we restore learning, strengthen communities, and build a brighter future for Jamaica’s children.