FRANKFIELD, Clarendon — Edwin Allen High School, one of Jamaica’s largest secondary institutions, is mounting a determined recovery effort following extensive damage from Hurricane Melissa. With its motto ‘Transeamus in Exemplum’ (We shall be an example) guiding the response, school administrators are implementing innovative solutions to ensure full resumption of classes by January 5.
Principal Jermaine Harris revealed to journalists that the Category 5 hurricane severely damaged nine classrooms and offices, completely destroying the canteen roof and storage facilities. The storm also devastated a critical computer lab where students prepare for Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, destroying all computers, smartboards, and air conditioning units.
The school’s recovery strategy combines temporary measures with appeals for sustainable rebuilding. Crews have installed zinc sheeting and tarpaulin covers on damaged structures while implementing a rotational attendance system for its 2,000 students. Grades 10, 11, and 13—those facing external examinations—maintain continuous five-day attendance, while other grades rotate through campus on designated days.
Notably, the school has received significant support from its alumni network, which donated a Starlink satellite internet system to maintain connectivity. The technology has proven particularly valuable for students completing school-based assessments and for those in the renowned track and field program who board on campus.
Principal Harris emphasized that pre-existing structural vulnerabilities, including termite infestations that weakened timber supports, compounded the hurricane damage. The administration has recommended to the Ministry of Education that reconstruction utilize metal rafters and concrete roofing instead of traditional lumber and zinc.
The school has implemented comprehensive psychosocial support services for students affected by the hurricane, particularly those from western Jamaica where the storm made landfall. The guidance counseling team, with ministry support, provides daily sessions for traumatized students, while boarding students have been safely returned to campus with generator power and internet access restored.
Despite the challenges, Harris expressed confidence in the recovery process: ‘Through crisis leadership, community partnership, and innovative thinking, we are demonstrating resilience and commitment to our students’ education.’