Dear Editor,

It’s hard to believe, but just a short time has passed since schools closed for the summer break and already the familiar hustle and bustle of back-to-school preparations is in full swing. Parents are strategically navigating this busy period, making important decisions to ensure their children are successfully enrolled and ready to embrace the challenges of the upcoming academic year.

In education, there is a pressing need for alignment and cooperation among all stakeholders for the greater good of our students. While parents diligently work to prepare their children for another year of learning, I can’t help but notice the ongoing trend of mass migration away from the Jamaican education system. This trend raises questions in my mind: Are the numerous job vacancies we see advertised a signal of an ageing workforce nearing retirement, or do they reflect a broader discontent among educators who are seeking a change from the current educational landscape?

Regardless of the underlying causes, the essential work of education must persist. Our children must receive the knowledge, skills, and training necessary to thrive in the evolving demands of the 21st-century job market. To ensure continuity and effectiveness, school administrators, along with the Ministry of Education, Youth, Skills, and Information, must collaborate to create an environment in which schools can operate smoothly and efficiently throughout the academic year 2025/2026.

I urge parents to utilise this holiday period not only for relaxation and leisure but also to prioritise their children’s developmental needs. With the rising cost of textbooks, families must allocate their resources wisely — investing in educational materials instead of indulging in the latest trends in branded shoes and bags. Supporting your child’s education not only enhances their academic experience but also contributes positively to the entire school community. Additionally, I encourage teachers to actively engage in professional development, ensuring they are equipped with the contemporary skills necessary to meet the diverse needs of our learners.

As we enjoy the summer break, let us not forget to plan responsibly for the upcoming academic year. September 1 is fast approaching, and for those awaiting Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) results, it’s time to start preparing for the implications those results may have on your educational journey. In just a few weeks, these results will shape the next steps for many students.

Wishing everyone a restful summer filled with thoughtful planning.

Ricardo Smith

Senior educator and social scientist

ricardo.professional.edu@gmail.com