FOR years, students and teachers at Sir Clifford Campbell Primary School in Westmoreland battled with clouds of dust that would rise from its bare, unpaved grounds, especially on dry and windy days. But now, thanks to the intervention of the Bluefields Foundation in partnership with Project STAR, that struggle is a thing of the past.

The students and staff at the inner-city school now have a rehabilitated play area, which was officially handed over recently.

“This means a lot,” said Principal Natalie Hamilton. “For years we were struggling with the dust. When the place was dry and windy we ate dust — everything was dust. Now, the children are enjoying the space to the max. It feels like a rebirth. It’s new, it’s fresh, and this is the only area they have to play.”

Hamilton noted that the upgraded space has already begun to positively impact both the academic and social life of the students. Structured physical education classes are now more enjoyable as both students and teachers feel more motivated to engage in outdoor activities.

“Before, teachers were hesitant to go out because of the dust. Now they are willing, the students are happy in their PE [physical education] uniforms, and events like Jamaica Day feel healthier and more vibrant,” she said.

The reaction from parents and the broader school community has been equally enthusiastic.

“The tagline is now: ‘No more dust,’ ” Hamilton remarked.

One parent said, “At least I won’t have to take my daughter to the doctor so many times. Even our staff — half of whom were once down with the flu because of the dust — are healthier now.”

Grateful for the support, Hamilton extended heartfelt thanks to Project STAR and its partners.

“Thanks is a small word to say but we are saying it with all our hearts. Thank you for coming our way when many others didn’t. You’ve given us something we’ve been yearning for, for many years,” she said.

The Bluefields Foundation, which made the project possible through an investment of over $8,400,000 from the Rita Adrosko Trust, expressed their satisfaction with the transformation.

“We believe every child deserves a safe, healthy space to play and grow. Supporting this project with Project STAR aligns perfectly with our values,” said Debbie Moncure, chair of Bluefields Foundation. “Seeing the joy on the children’s faces and hearing the impact from the school community reinforces why partnerships like this matter.”

In addition to the newly paved space, the area now features new planters filled with beautiful shade trees and other dense foliage.

Project STAR also shared its sense of pride with the outcome.

“This is exactly the kind of transformation we strive for,” said Clayton Parchment, chair of the Project STAR Community Transformation Board in Savanna-la-Mar.

“The new play area not only supports the health and well-being of the students but also fosters a stronger learning environment. We are proud to stand with the community of Sir Clifford Campbell Primary as they continue to grow and thrive,” Parchment said.

Sir Clifford Campbell Primary, located in Savanna-la-Mar, has been serving the community for approximately 56 years. Built on land leased from the Catholic church, the school — formerly called St Mary’s Academy — was renamed after Jamaica’s first governor general, Sir Clifford Campbell. The school currently caters to 440 students, with some coming from outside the town.

Despite facing academic challenges, particularly in literacy and with the Primary Exit Programme (PEP) preparation, the school continues to strive for excellence.

“We’re working to strengthen the foundation,” said Hamilton, pointing to recent improvements and aspirations for stronger performances across all grades.

Sir Clifford Campbell Primary has also been excelling in extracurricular activities. The school emerged as the 2024 Westmoreland Parish Champions in the Institute of Sports (INSPORTS) football competition, and earned silver and bronze medals in various categories at the Jamaica Cultural Development Competition. They also clinched first place in round three of the 2025 Inter-School Mathematics Problem-Solving Competition and are gearing up for more competitions, including cricket.