School gets new block for special education unit

A new classroom block built to house the Special Education Unit at Albion Primary School in Knockpatrick, Manchester, was officially handed over to the Ministry of Education by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).

The structure was constructed over 17 months at a cost of $87.17 million under the Caribbean Development Bank-financed Basic Needs Trust Fund Ninth Cycle.

The block comprises three classrooms; male and female bathroom stalls, with wheelchair accessible features; a staff room with bathrooms; a sick bay with bathroom; storage area; principal's office; guidance counsellor's office; dining area and kitchen; general bathroom; and a multipurpose court.

It has additionally been fully equipped with furniture, including 10 metal desks and chairs, and five teacher's desks and chairs; electronics, including a 75-inch digital display system, two projectors and three laptops with accessories; three fire extinguishers; a first-aid kit, playmats, a bed, as well as one refrigerator and a stove. The block is enclosed with chain-link fencing. A four-day workshop was conducted with the relevant staff to ensure that the facility's maintenance and management can be done efficiently.

Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams said over the past three decades, there has been a shift from a segregated to an inclusive school system for all children.

She noted that efforts have been made to address challenges faced by children with special needs in relation to physical infrastructure and teaching-learning methodologies.

"The recurring underperformance of students has been a source of concern for administrators and teachers, especially at the primary level," Williams said.

The minister indicated that approximately 30 per cent of Albion's population requires special-education services, pointing out that some students travel from as far away as Porus to the institution.

JSIF Chairman Dr Wayne Henry announced that under the Basic Needs Trust Fund 10th Cycle, the agency would be undertaking the complete relocation and reconstruction of the school from its present location. This, he indicated, will make the institution the leading inclusive school in the region.