The scores for the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) at Retirement Primary School in St Ann have continued to soar over the years and this year was no exception as the students performed exceptionally well to secure a place into the high school of their choice.

This continued success has been attributed , by many, to Camille Williams Campbell, a young educator who was well known for her GSAT success. With her trend for producing top performers, many were anticipating her return to school September to teach the GSAT class and those entering grade five. Instead, the school is now mourning the passing of the 36-year-old teacher, who gave 18 years to education.

Hundreds of persons packed the York Castle High School Auditorium in Brown’s Town last month to bid farewell to the educator. Campbell who was provisional principal and grade five and six teacher at the school died on July 12 after a brief illness.

Karlene Segree of the Ministry of Education Region Three, described Campbell as an excellent teacher who motivated her students to do exceptionally well.

“Through her work, the school passed all national and regional averages in all external examinations,” she said, adding that Campbell was an exceptional educator.

“She developed a reputation as a leading GSAT teacher, making her school one of the most outstanding in the exams,” Segree said.

Campbell started teaching in 1996 at Retirement Primary immediately after leaving St Hilda’s Diocesan High School in Brown’s Town. She later attended Shortwood Teachers’ College to receive training in primary education and then to Northern Caribbean University to further her studies.

Campbell was remembered as an educator who believed in her students and motivated them to believe in themselves.

Segree said Campbell excelled and began climbing the ranks after only a few years in the classroom. She was a Senior Teacher Two and acted as principal on several occasions. In 2014, she was appointed provisional principal for the multi-grade institution. It was May of this year that the board recommended that she be appointed principal.

School Chairman Rev Athlone Harrison said although Campbell was ill she made preparations for the new school year, sitting with the board as they decided the way forward for the new term.

He said Campbell was an outstanding educator who was loved in the community where she taught.

Rev Joseph Lewis, who moderated the thanksgiving service, also spoke admirably about the young educator.

“We have lost a precious sister… In the church she was a lively stone”, he said, noting that she was an outstanding teacher, even at church. “She did what ever she was doing with all her soul, with all her might. She loved the Lord with all her heart,” he continued.

Raymon Treasure, principal of York Castle High, where Campbell’s son is a student said she was not only a great educator, but a great parent.

“We are certainly going to miss a great parent,” he said

Campbell was also remembered for her love for singing.

She was described as a dedicated Christian who was “loving, caring, down-to-earth and vibrant.”

Her cousin Kerry Ann Stewart said, “She was a role model.” A tearful, Stewart said one of Campbell’s dreams was to see her son graduate from high school.

School Board chairman Harrison said he will be working to have a scholarship for the top GSAT student, starting next year, in honour of Campbell.

Campbell is mourned by husband Gentle Campbell, son Micah, daughter Candice and other relatives and friends.

CAPTIONS

(Camille Campbell)

The late Camille Campbell

(students perform)

Students of the Retirement Primary School performing at the funeral service.

(mother sings)

Mother of Camille Williams Campbell, Monica Jackson pays tribute in song.

(pallbearers)

Pallbearers take the casket from the auditorium.