IN a resounding triumph of inclusive education and unwavering dedication, the inaugural Create With Aunty Ama summer camp has concluded its first year, leaving behind a tapestry of heart-warming stories and a clarion call for diversified educational experiences for our youth. Running from July 3 to August 11, 2023 this camp not only ignited sparks of creativity but also sparked a fervent advocacy for inclusive education, epitomised by the presence of Kamesha Reynolds, a dedicated teacher pursuing her bachelor’s degree in special education.

Jamaica’s last national census in 2011 reported a disability prevalence of 3.3 per cent among individuals aged five and older. This sobering fact is underscored by global research indicating that a staggering 20 per cent of people will require special education intervention at some point in their lives.

Reynolds, an educator with over 17 years of experience closely supporting students with intellectual disabilities, has embarked on a transformative journey to attain a bachelor’s degree in special education from The Mico University College in Kingston. Her unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive environment resonates profoundly with the camp’s mission, marking a pivotal stride toward a more inclusive educational landscape. She emphasises, “Becoming certified in special education not only enhances my skills but also ensures that every student, regardless of their abilities, receives the education they deserve. It’s about fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance.”

Amashika Lorne, the principal director of Amashika & Associates Limited and the camp’s director, underscored the critical need for dedicated special education practitioners within the education system.

“The education system urgently requires the expertise of special education practitioners. The resounding success of our summer camp demonstrates that when students are enveloped in a secure and supportive environment, the true magic of education unfolds. Our unyielding dedication, meticulous planning, and flawless collaboration have unequivocally delivered a transformative experience for all participants,” Lorne said.

Over six enriching weeks a total of 80 students immersed themselves in a rich tapestry of activities and immersive learning opportunities thoughtfully curated by the camp. From daily reading sessions, engaging workshops, to enriching field trips, every moment was meticulously designed to kindle a love for learning, ignite creativity, and instil a profound sense of belonging for all participants aged four to 12 years old.

Furthermore, the camp championed a proactive approach during the registration phase, conducting thorough inquiries into students’ potential learning disabilities or their position on the autism spectrum. Lorne emphasised that this proactive stance is pivotal for early intervention, breaking down stigma and discrimination, and supporting parents to acknowledge and embrace their child’s unique requirements for holistic development.

Recognising the pressing need for more certified and trained teachers in the field of special education, the camp stands as a beacon of hope. Notably, it provided Reynolds with an opportunity to earn additional income towards her bachelor’s degree. The demand for such practitioners extends far beyond Kingston and St Andrew, underscoring the necessity for their presence across the entire island.

As the first chapter of the Create With Aunty Ama camp concluded it leaves behind an enduring legacy of inclusive education, expert guidance, and the unwavering support of sponsors who recognise the transformative power of nurturing young minds.