Education ‘change-makers’ receive Lasco top honours

The prestigious awards were presented during a ceremony hosted by the LASCO Chin Foundation (LCF) in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoEYI) and the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) on, December 6. The annual event, which has been a cornerstone in recognising the dedication, innovation and leadership of educators across seven regions for the past 27 years, was held under the theme: “Challenges there are, but excellence prevails”.

While the top three honourees captured much of the attention, the awards ceremony highlighted the achievements of other extraordinary finalists, including Elecia Francis Davis and Sashane Stone-Goldbourne who placed second and third respectively in the teacher category; Nadia Jones and Shaniel Davis Brown, who placed second and third respectively in the TVET teacher category; and Nadine Gayle-Little and Dr. Lavern Stewart who placed second and third respectively in the principal category.

All first-place winners received $100,000.00, second place winners got $50,000.00 and third place winners collected $25,000.00 each, totalling a prize package of $525,000.00. The 2024 LASCO Teacher, TVET Teacher and Principal of the Year also receive the opportunity to attend the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Conference in San Antonio, Texas in June 2025.

Approximately 130 remarkable individuals, whose contributions to education are leaving a lasting legacy had the spotlight shone on the.  However, the three title winners “have demonstrated that they have risen to the pinnacle of their profession despite many challenges – their win is a result of their display of leadership and resilience,” says James Rawle, executive chairman of LASCO Affiliated Companies.

More than just awards

The event was more than a ceremony. It was a testament to the transformative power of education. From the keynote address by Dr. Adrian Stokes, Chairman of the Education Transformation Oversight Committee, to vibrant student performances and soulful entertainment by Nickeishia Barnes – who not only song powerful songs like Wind Beneath My Wings and Goodness of God, but also spoke about the positive impact of teachers on her life – the day was an uplifting reminder of why education matters. Attendees enjoyed traditional Indian dance performances by Online Dance Zoomers, choreographed by Akshay Kansara, from Mumbai, India and Mudra Arts, taught by Prerana Prashant Singh.

Reflecting on the significance of the awards, Sophia Forbes-Hall, Director, Regional Educational Service (Region 6), speaking on behalf of the MoEYI’s Permanent Secretary Dr. Kasan Troupe, noted, “As nominees, you have already demonstrated exceptional leadership and become change-makers in your respective fields. Being shortlisted for this honour is a testament to your dedication, creativity, and positive impact. Whether as teachers igniting a passion for learning or principals cultivating environments of academic and personal growth, your contributions are truly invaluable.”

Change-makers of 2024

For awardees like Bryan, Hall and Thomas, the accolades are just the beginning. These educators embody a shared belief that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge – it’s about inspiring generations to dream bigger, work harder, and achieve more.

“Teaching is more than a career, it’s my calling. The theme is so apt to my experiences as I continue to prevail. I am grateful to God and thankful to my school family – the teachers, administration, parents and students, as well as the LCF, MoEYI and JTC who have contributed to my professional development,” said Bryan. The LASCO Teacher of the Year honouree from Manchester High School has transformed literacy outcomes through cutting-edge strategies. From integrating technology into lessons to crafting hands-on activities that resonate with students, Bryan’s innovative approach is igniting a love for reading across the school.

Meanwhile, as an automotive instructor at Jonathan Grant High School, Hall is breaking barriers while equipping students with hands-on skills for careers in the competitive automotive industry. Recognized as the TVET Teacher of the Year, she embodies the spirit of resilience and adaptability required in today’s classrooms.

“Education isn’t just about books – it’s about preparing students for life,” Hall remarked. “My goal is to give every student the tools to succeed, no matter where their journey takes them.”

Sheldon Thomas, who also received the Popular Vote (through voting via LCF’s Instagram page), has redefined what leadership looks like at Ferncourt High School. Under his stewardship, student performance has soared, and school operations have been modernized to embrace a more progressive, technology-driven approach. As he humbly accepted the Principal of the Year title, Thomas dedicated the award to the team behind him.

“Success is a collective effort,” he shared in his acceptance speech. “I’m just one part of a passionate community working to empower our students to succeed – our regional directors have been consistent in guiding and providing us with the resources we need and to Region 3, your encouragement and support has been instrumental in me standing before you today.”

The LASCO Chin Foundation, with its long-standing commitment to empowering Jamaica’s educators, continues to remind us all, great teachers make great nations.

“Our awards truly celebrate change-makers in education. From sparking curiosity in the classroom to fostering environments where students thrive, these educators are shaping the future. Their impact is immeasurable,” says Professor Rosalea Hamilton, LCF’s chief executive officer.