Two Seventh-day Adventist women from the East Jamaica Conference were among 79 educators recognized at the 2025 Prime Minister’s Medal of Appreciation Ceremony for Service to Education on May 28, 2025, at Jamaica House. The East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists proudly celebrates the achievements of Mrs. Patricia Carr and Miss Lorna Williams, exceptional educators acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to education, community development, and nation-building.
Shepherdess Patricia Carr, a retired veteran educator, was recognized for over 40 years of teaching and working as an education officer in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information. Upon graduating from the Teacher Education Department (Class of 1975) of the then West Indies College (now Northern Caribbean University, NCU), Mrs. Carr, in her early years as a classroom teacher, taught at the Portland and Kingsway High Schools.
Over the years, she taught across multiple parishes, including St. Thomas, Portland, Kingston, and St. Andrew, extending her influence to the upper primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. Her journey eventually led her to the Ministry of Education, where she served as a Music Education Officer with a special focus on children's instrumental ensembles. Mrs. Carr has trained choirs in various groups, as well as led the staging of children’s concerts. She continues to give her time willingly to share her competencies to make a difference in the lives of persons with whom she comes into contact, ‘using music as a medium of transformation.’
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Miss Lorna Williams, a member of the Washington Gardens SDA Church, was also recognized for her creative and impactful teaching strategies. As head of the Mathematics Department at the Convent of Mercy Alpha Academy, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, she produced YouTube instructional videos to support students especially those who were struggling, allowing them to learn at their own pace. Her collaborative spirit extended across borders, as she partnered with a mathematics team in the United States to offer free extra classes. Miss Williams also introduced innovative teaching tools, including an 'Error Analysis and Remediation Technique' document that has helped both students and fellow educators. Beyond the classroom, she has been a vibrant leader in her local church, serving in various roles, including Sabbath School Superintendent, youth leader, and music coordinator.
Their recognition at the national level underscores the profound impact of faith-driven educators who combine professional excellence with community service.
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