HUNDREDS of children from three schools in the Sagicor Foundation Adopt-A-School programme were excited when they received gifts as part of a special tour of the schools during the week leading up to the Christmas holidays.

The newly adopted schools for the 2020/2021 school year are Cornwall Gardens Basic School in Montego Bay, St James; Beeston Spring Early Childhood Institution (ECI) in Whitehouse, Westmoreland; and Sligoville Early Childhood Institution in St Catherine. The schools’ administrators scheduled the little ones on a shift system in order to adhere to the current health protocols. Each student received two gifts – one educational and a fun-themed toy.

The early childhood institutions were adopted by the Sagicor Foundation following a nomination and assessment process, as well as through consultations with the Early Childhood Commission (ECC). Renovation work will be carried out at the schools in 2021 with the aim of enhancing the schools’ physical infrastructure through the expansion of classroom spaces and addition of sick bays, as well as roofing, lighting, bathroom, kitchen and play area upgrades. Much-needed learning material and resources will also be provided, helping schools to become compliant with ECC standards.

Michelle-Ann Letman, corporate social responsibility manager, Sagicor Group Jamaica, said the Adopt-A-School programme is one of the core initiatives for the Sagicor Foundation, adding that the gifting initiative aimed at helping to spread joy and Christmas spirit during the holiday season.

“It is a joy to see the happiness of the children when they receive their gifts. It has been a very difficult year for everyone, including the children, and so it is a pleasure to give back to them and to bring them cheer for the holiday”, she said.

Customarily, the Sagicor Foundation would host a Christmas treat with rides, treats and activities, however, with the current restrictions, the children were presented only with gifts.

Taneisha Poyser McKnight, principal, Beeston Spring ECI, expressed gratitude to the Sagicor Foundation for the engagement with the children.

“The students, teachers and the school community are so happy for this. I am happy that the children were able to receive something special for the holidays, which reminds them that they are special and loved. I am very grateful,” she said.

The Sagicor Foundation adopts three new basic schools each year and provide much-needed renovation upgrades to help schools achieve certification and deliver positive learning outcomes.

In October, the foundation officially handed over completed renovation work at the 2019/20 adopted schools – Petersville Early Childhood in Whitehouse, Westmoreland; Prime Time Early Childhood Institution in Denbigh, Clarendon; and St Peter Claver Infant School on Waltham Park Road in Kingston.