Maths is in my DNA - Mathematics Teacher of the Year makes learning interactive

Cameka Ingram knew very early in life that she wanted to be a teacher, and specifically a teacher of mathematics.

Her favourite childhood memories are of playing shop with her friends and selling them 'pretend' items.

"I would put soil in bags and sell to them, and even give them back change. From then, I knew maths was in my DNA," she told JIS News. On April 15, the little girl from the farming community of Cedar Valley in St Ann, who grew up loving maths, was named the 2024 Mathematics Teacher of the Year by the Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY).

It was the highlight of her journey as an educator, which began at Farm Heights United Basic School in St James, where she served as principal for three years. She is currently teacher and coordinator for grade three at Green Pond Primary and Infant School in the parish. Ingram is also assigned duties as a senior teacher and school-based assessment coordinator, serves on the mathematics and disciplinary committees, is a leader of the school's 4-H Club, and is also in charge of the track and field programme.

With two decades of teaching experience under her belt, her dedication to her craft and innovative teaching methods are exemplary. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to her students' success are evident in every aspect of her work. She emphasises the importance of interactive learning experiences, incorporating games and hands-on activities to explain mathematics, and creating an environment where students feel empowered to explore, make mistakes, and learn from them. This approach is not only to reduce students' fear of the subject, but to also foster an appreciation of the subject.

Beyond the classroom, she supports her colleagues by sharing best practices, and serving as a mentor for those seeking to enhance their teaching skills. She actively engages in professional development workshops, stays abreast of the latest educational strategies, and collaborates with regional mathematics coaches to continually improve her craft.

Ingram credits her parents, especially her mother, her three sons and her humble upbringing,as the driving force behind her success. She said that her intrinsic motivation and unwavering self-belief as a winner have propelled her forward in the profession and in copping the Mathematics Teacher of the Year Award.

In preparation for the competition, Ingram carefully planned her lessons, conducted research, and sought advice from fellow educators and specialists. As she revelled in the honour of the award, she remains grounded and humble, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of her students.

Her advice to fellow educators echoes her own journey, "Continue working towards your dreams, embrace lifelong learning, and share your knowledge generously to inspire others."

A graduate of the York Castle High School in St Ann, Ingram pursued tertiary studies at the Sam Sharpe Teachers' College in St James, where she attained a diploma and a bachelor's degree in primary education, and the Western Carolina University in the United States, where she obtained a master's degree in education and supervision.