Educational institutions across Jamaica’s Westmoreland parish are demonstrating remarkable resilience as they welcome students back following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Despite widespread infrastructure damage from the October Category 5 storm, school administrators have developed innovative strategies to ensure continuous education.
At Savanna-la-Mar Primary School, where nine classrooms were completely destroyed, Principal Megan Berry has spearheaded the creative repurposing of non-traditional spaces. The computer laboratory, library, and multi-purpose hall have been transformed into makeshift classrooms to accommodate all grade levels. ‘We are ready to accept the full complement, but we had to be creative in doing so,’ Berry stated, emphasizing that no structural repairs have yet been completed since the hurricane struck.
The situation appears equally challenging at Mount Airy Primary and Infant School, located in the Negril hills, which lost approximately 80% of its roofing. Although initial repairs have commenced, the extensive damage requires complete reconstruction of several structures. With over 520 students enrolled, the school has implemented a sophisticated shift system to manage limited space and furniture availability. Guidance counselor Lelieth Murdock explained the detailed scheduling: ‘Grade six will attend Mondays through Fridays, grades four and five will come Mondays to Wednesdays, while the infant department through grade three will attend Thursdays and Fridays.’
In rural Williamsfield, administrators have employed tarpaulin coverings as temporary protection for damaged buildings—a common sight throughout the parish. Principal Shawn Clarke highlighted the urgent need for assistance with repairs, furniture, and educational materials after the storm destroyed textbooks, learning aids, writing boards, student and teacher furniture, electrical systems, and roofing structures.
Amid these challenges, Little London Primary School represents a beacon of hope with electricity recently restored and minimal hurricane damage, allowing full student attendance without requiring shift systems. The collective response across Westmoreland demonstrates the education sector’s determination to maintain learning continuity despite significant obstacles.