St Mary's College

I am currently sitting with Garvey on a bench outside the principle’s office at St. Mary’s Boys College.  This is the top school on the island.  We are meeting this morning to decide if Garvey will continue here, repeating Form 3 or if it is best to transfer him to another school for Form 4.

After long discussion amongst the team, with Garvey, and with his mother, we feel it will be best if he is allowed to remain at the college and repeat Form 3 in order to address the many gaps that have now appeared in virtually all the subject areas.

Last year Garvey was 3^rd in his class but this year he has really struggled.  It has become obvious that there are a number of factors, which need to be addressed.  These include more reliable transportation, better nutrition, and additional tutoring in several major subjects.  There will also need to be a major change in Garvey’s study habits and commitment to school work if he is to continue at this school.

Our appointment was set for 10:00 am.  At 10:50 the principle had still not arrived at the school.  It was 11:15 before a very nervous Garvey and I met with the principle.  This is just another one of the concerns island wide with education.  It is difficult to find good examples for the students to follow.

Once the principle finally arrived he focused on Garvey’s poor attendance record and failure to produce a letter from his mother, especially for missed tests and exams.  However, once I clarified that Garvey would need to write the letters himself and that he often came to school without food, the principle’s tone changed completely.  In the end, he agreed to allow Garvey to return to the school for Form 3, to allow us to establish a meal account in the cafeteria, provided the book list so that we can ensure that Garvey has all the materials necessary this year, and to assist with extra help if necessary.

Garvey was very relieved by the outcome but still doesn’t seem to fully understand that this may be his last chance.  During the meeting it became clear that Garvey’s results would make it difficult to secure him a spot in many of the local schools and that space might not be available for him at any school within a reasonable distance.  Throughout the next few weeks we will take every opportunity to impress upon Garvey how hard he must work this year if he wants to continue working towards his dreams for a higher education.

Back at camp, Blythe and Zoe are settling in well after arriving on Sunday.  The airport was chaotic as flight after flight arrived.  The immigration line spilled out of the arrivals areas and people had to wait in the hot sun.  For 2 hours I watched as hot, frustrated tourists arrived.  Finally Blythe and Zoe appeared dragging their luggage since all the porters had decided to take a break!

The late arriving West Jet flight is looking better with every airport pick up.  By the time the WJ flight arrives the airport is quiet again and all the passengers come through quickly and easily.

Herb and Chris left yesterday after a great week of sports and our 8^th annual Olympics.  The campers had a great time and we are finding that this year’s crop of junior leaders is doing a fantastic job.


- Auntie Shel