HEIGHTENED enthusiasm, better academic performance and positive changes in students’ behaviour are among a few of the early outcomes of a newly retrofitted Special Education Unit at the Hazard Primary School in Clarendon, Digicel Foundation has said.

“The students have made significant strides since entering the unit, thanks to the technological improvements made by Digicel Foundation to enhance the teaching and learning process,” said Principal Alvin Mitchell, who also paid tribute to his “experienced, dedicated and caring staff”.

The renovated unit was officially opened on October 13, at a cost of over $8 million, courtesy of Digicel Foundation, the release said.

According to Mitchell, the impact has been transformative.

“The unit is now the envy of the entire school,” he observed.

“It is heart-warming for us to hear about the impact of this work at Hazard Primary,” said chairperson of Digicel Foundation Jean Lowrie-Chin. “Our commitment is to those children with special needs who need the extra care, love and attention, so that they blossom with increased confidence in a happy learning environment.”

Mitchell expressed gratitude to “the visionaries who saw the need for a Special Education Unit”, as well as for the school’s partnership with the Digicel Foundation.

According to him, the unit has “significantly transformed the architectural landscape of the school”, providing a high-quality, student-friendly learning environment.

In the meantime, Digicel Foundation CEO Karlene Dawson expressed satisfaction with the completion of the work and the partnership with Hazard Primary.

“The goal of these practical improvements is to motivate and empower the students. I can see this reflected on their faces, today,” Dawson said.

Special Education Officer at the unit, Heather Lynn, noted how excited the students were about the improvements – in particular the freshly repainted classrooms, now in very cheerful colours.

She said that the enhanced learning environment has resulted in “very positive” changes in behaviour among the students.

“They are taking more pride in their surroundings.”

The works included repairs to the existing ramp as well as an emergency exit. New bathroom fixtures were put in place and ceramic tile flooring, and new ceilings installed. Digicel Foundation said it also set up a playground area with attractive landscaping and new play equipment.