Exchange All Age students get back-to-school treat

Dozens of students attending the Exchange All-Age School in St Ann once again enjoyed a back-to-school treat put on by philanthropist Ian Clough recently. The event is in its eighth year at the school.

Several students were given tablets while everyone left with a school bag, books, and other school supplies to help get them ready for the new academic, starting in September. The event, which is usually kept in July, was a little late this year but the students nevertheless enjoyed the presents, after which they were treated to ice cream.

The school administration was also the beneficiary of a laptop, from Clough.

The treat came as the school administration gears up for the new academic year with five new classrooms, set to increase its student capacity by nearly 50 per cent.

One parent, Althea Tomlinson, who brought her seven-year-old daughter Malia Sinclair to the treat, was glad for the occasion as it allowed her to save some money.

“I appreciate this very much because I couldn’t afford it at because things kinda tough at the moment; I appreciate it 100 per cent,” Tomlinson told The Gleaner as she secured Malia’s knapsack with books and other supplies.

Councillor for the Exchange division, Ian Isaacs, who once again assisted with getting the function organised, hailed Clough’s continued support for the school and in other areas of Jamaica.

“It is a good feeling to know that he continues to do that after so many years. And we appreciate the love that he has for the children, and for his country, Jamaica,” Isaacs said.

Clough again acknowledged the support he has been receiving from his network of friends overseas to make his yearly donations possible. He said the aim is to help the children succeed.

“It’s all about trying to get the kids on a good footing and let them know that there are people who care about them outside of their parents,” said Clough

“We care about this country. We love this country. We want this country to prosper and the only way it can prosper is if we have children who are educated and are conscientious,” he added.

Meanwhile, principal Ricardo Moncrieffe expressed gratitude for the new block of classrooms at the school and said it will be occupied as of next month.

“I certainly appreciate it, I mean the students are delighted. They are receiving a new school block, compliments of the National Education Trust (NET) and the Ministry of Education. We’re seeing five new classrooms, bathrooms for the students, an office for the principal and a resource room so we are indeed appreciative of this gesture.”

“All will be ready for this school year, September just some minor things we have to be done ..., the resurfacing of the play field. But we anticipate that it will be done in short order; this means we are able to accept another 150 students.”

The student population at last term was 320.