OCHO RIOS, St Ann – In recognition of Parents Month, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort collaborated with Ocho Rios High School to honour parents of grade seven students.

An educational seminar headed by the Sandals regional public relations manager, Lyndsay Isaacs, and grade seven teacher Rohan Boothe encouraging gentle and impactful parenting was a well-supported success.

Six students copped awards for the preliminary essay competition for which they had to submit pieces on ‘Why My Parent is the Best’. Zannu Whittaker, Kayanna Lett, Michael Brown, Cejay Robinson, Benjamin Attrey, and Kayley Housen dedicated their essays to their respective parents, who were teary-eyed and overwhelmed with emotions as each child expressed profound gratitude.

In addressing the audience, Principal Marvin Clowson stated, “Parenting is a difficult task and there is no manual. Times have changed, and we must be more innovative in directing our children. The nation depends on parents to be the best they can be.”

Presenters Filmore Spencer, regional mental health officer from the North East Regional Health Authority; Monique Mitchell Stewart, justice of the peace and paralegal; and Constable Rhoan Walters, domestic violence trainer, expounded on mental wellness, parenting skills, and protecting our children, respectively. They educated the audience on strategies to handle challenges they may be experiencing. Parents were encouraged to engage children in compassionate and empathic conversations, understanding the importance of emulating the love and morality they want to see in them.

Each parent also received a certificate of appreciation and goodies for their significant contribution and support to the institution.