STUDENTS and teachers at Siloah Primary School are set to benefit from improved drinking water storage, classroom cooling, and teaching resources following a donation valued at $1.9 million, as part of Dr Joy Spence’s 45th anniversary celebrations at J Wray & Nephew Limited.

The contribution — made through the J Wray & Nephew (JWN) Foundation and Appleton Estate — included two 1,000-gallon water tanks for drinking water storage; 18 water stands with a supply of five-gallon water bottles; three smart televisions with wall mounts; 24 wall-mounted fans for six classrooms; and a water testing kit.

The water tanks will strengthen the school’s drinking water storage capacity, while the water stands and bottled water will support access throughout the school day.

The fans are intended to create more comfortable conditions for students, including those preparing for their Primary Exit Profile examinations, and the smart televisions will provide additional classroom teaching resources.

The handover continued a relationship that began five years ago during the ‘40 Years of Joy’ initiative, which introduced a breakfast feeding programme for primary schools surrounding Appleton Estate in St Elizabeth.

During her visit to Siloah Primary at that time, Spence was struck by Principal Oneil Larmond’s commitment to the school and the warmth of its students, inspiring her to continue supporting the institution.

Earlier this year, that support included a commitment to provide feminine hygiene supplies for girls in grades five and six throughout the year. This latest donation builds on that relationship by addressing practical needs that affect students’ comfort and readiness to learn.

“My passion is for education, and I always support causes for education through the foundation, through scholarships, and initiatives such as this. This donation responds to everyday needs that can make a real difference to a child’s school experience.

Appleton Estate Master Blender Dr Joy Spence presents a commemorative donation board representing $1.9 million in support for improved drinking water storage, classroom cooling and teaching resources to Siloah Primary School Principal Oneil Larmond.

“Having drinking water readily available, cooler classrooms, and technology to support teaching can help students feel more comfortable and better able to concentrate on learning,” said Spence.

“As I celebrate 45 years with J Wray & Nephew, it is deeply rewarding to share that milestone in this way. Through the JWN Foundation, scholarships and initiatives such as this, I hope to continue helping young people access the support and opportunities they need to fulfil their potential,” added Spence, Appleton Estate’s master blender.

The school’s welcomed the contribution and acknowledged the continued support of Spence and the JWN Foundation.

“Total joy when Dr Joy Spence is around. We are extremely happy for her donation of water drums, water coolers, wall fans and smart televisions. This has transformed our learning environment, allowing our students and staff to work more effectively. This will enhance the performance of all our students. Special thanks to Dr Joy Spence and the JWN Foundation for always being there for our school and community,” said Larmond.

Education has been a meaningful thread throughout JOY45, which celebrates Spence’s journey from joining JWN as chief chemist in 1981 to becoming the first female master blender in the spirits industry in 1997.

Alongside the Siloah Primary contribution, an anniversary dinner at The University of the West Indies, Mona, on October 15 acknowledged scholarship recipient Cara Fraser, connecting the celebration of Spence’s achievements with opportunities for another generation.

The school handover brought that commitment into the community surrounding Appleton Estate, marking the anniversary with practical support for students and the educators guiding them.