NET assists two Trelawny schools after hurricane damage

Two schools in Trelawny have begun major rebuilding efforts with support from the National Education Trust (NET) after Hurricane Melissa caused widespread damage last year.

Albert Town Primary and Infant School and Waldensia Primary and Infant School were among the institutions hit hardest by the storm, which tore off roofs, destroyed perimeter fencing and damaged classroom spaces.

NET, an agency of the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, visited both schools recently as part of its broader response to hurricane-affected institutions across the island.

At Waldensia Primary and Infant School, principal Nicola Ottie Anderson said parts of the school sustained serious structural damage, even as a previously repaired roof section remained intact.

“This roof was repaired by the National Education Trust after the passage of Hurricane Beryl, and it truly stood the test of time. When Hurricane Melissa passed, that section of the roof remained intact and was not compromised. That alone speaks to the quality of the work done, and we are grateful to NET for selecting the right contractors and ensuring the job was done properly,” she said.

She noted that other areas of the campus were not as lucky.

“Despite that, Hurricane Melissa still caused significant damage to other sections of our school. Portions of the roofing were affected, our perimeter fencing was lost, and sections of our walls were damaged. In the midst of these challenges, the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information and the National Education Trust came to our assistance. We are truly thankful for their support and for the work now taking place to help us rebuild and restore our school community.”

At Albert Town Primary and Infant School, principal Godfrey Blake said the hurricane created “real challenges” for daily operations after several roofs were removed and key water storage systems destroyed.

“Hurricane Melissa caused severe damage to our institution. Roofs were removed from several sections of the school, our fencing was lost, and a number of water tanks were blown away. The damage created real challenges for our school community, as these facilities are essential to maintaining a safe and functional learning environment,” he said.

Blake said repairs are well under way.

“We are, therefore, extremely grateful to the Ministry of Education and the National Education Trust for responding so quickly and for undertaking the necessary repairs. The roofing works are now well advanced, and we are encouraged by the progress being made. We remain hopeful and committed to building back stronger for the benefit of our students and staff.”

NET Executive Director Latoya Harris-Ghartey said the agency remains committed to restoring safe learning environments islandwide.

“When disasters strike, our schools often feel the impact deeply. At the National Education Trust, we understand that restoring a school is not simply about repairing buildings; it is about restoring a sense of normalcy, security, and hope for students, teachers and communities. Our work in Trelawny reflects the power of partnership and our shared responsibility to ensure that every child has access to a safe and supportive learning environment.”

The ministry added that the goal remains unchanged: ensuring that “every child deserves a safe place to learn” as rebuilding continues across affected communities.