Educators Encouraged To Transition From Learners To Leaders

“The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet”. These famous words by well-known Greek philosopher Aristotle, were echoed by Shaunette Small, Valedictorian of the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College (ETTC) 2025 graduating class. 

The graduation ceremony, which was held last Saturday evening at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, Two Mile Hill, St. Michael, saw the commencement of over 150 graduates.

“A few years ago, we stood at the threshold of our educational journey, blissfully unaware of what lay ahead.  Some of us were anxious, some were even scared of the unknown, while others were excited to be in the classroom again, as students,” she shared.

Ms. Small cited a quote by American Librarian John Cotton Dana, who said: “who dares to teach must never cease to learn”, stating that this is confirmation that “we were in the right place at the right time, at the Erdiston Teachers’ Training College”.

She added: “For us to continue being learners to leaders in education, as expressed in our theme, it is pivotal for us to strive for excellence in all we do.”

The Valedictorian provided an illustration to mirror the journey of the graduating class using the acronym S-T-R-I-V-E: Success; Trials; Reflection; Integrate; Vision and Effective.

Ms. Small expressed gratitude to the Principal and Deputy Principal of the ETTC and also to the administrative staff, the ancillary staff, and custodians, families and friends.

“Thank you for always being readily available to assist us in any capacity and for making the campus environment conducive for learning. To our families, friends, and well-wishers, we thank you for your love and support. Without you, this journey would not be possible.”

The ETTC’s outstanding student took the opportunity to address and encourage her colleagues, saying: “Fellow graduands, as we have reached the end of this journey, may we endeavour to let our light shine brightly where there is darkness. Believe in yourself, be strong, never give up, no matter what the circumstances. You are [champions] and will overcome the dreaded obstacles. Be your best and don’t ever, ever give up…We are learners to leaders in education”.  (PR/GIS)