Conversations of greatness

JMMB Foundation transforms primary school

ACTING PRINCIPAL of the Allman Town Primary School, Latoya Nesbitt, is among one of the latest educators to praise the JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation-led transformational initiative, titled ‘Conversations for Greatness’, a national project of the foundation.

The initiative, which closed out the final leg of the nine-month long sustainability segment in early November, was credited for helping to improve the working relationship among the school’s staff and enhancing the students’ behaviour.

The Conversations for Greatness programme was introduced to Allman Town Primary about two years ago, at a time when the school’s staff was divided along the lines of leadership, creating an unhealthy working environment, and hindering growth in critical areas, such as academic improvement and student behaviour.

Nesbitt stated that with the help of the programme, there have been several fundamental shifts that she has observed, including the overall interpersonal dynamics and trust level at the institution.

“The timing of the programme could not have been better ... I would, without a doubt, recommend that as many schools and as many persons as possible be exposed to the Conversations for Greatness programme,” Nesbitt said.

MAKING IMPROVEMENT

“Effective schools are defined by having strong leadership, a clear school mission, quality teaching and learning, a safe and orderly climate, transparent and effective monitoring of students’ progress, and high expectations and parental involvement. Since implementing Conversations for Greatness at Allman Town Primary, the school is on its way to improving all the areas for designation as an effective school,” she added.

Members of the school’s academic staff, she said, joined in creating a new vision for the school under the guidance of the programme. Since then, several initiatives have been implemented with a focus on student behavioural improvement, academic excellence and nurturing children’s soft skills, in keeping with its ‘renewed’ vision.