Dear Editor,

Kindly permit me space in your widely read newspaper to extend profound congratulations to the vice-principal of Alston High School Murdina Latty-Johnson for receiving the prestigious Jamaica Teachers’ Association Golden Torch Award 2023. She has contributed almost 40 years of professional service to education in Jamaica.

As a good friend and colleague of mine at Alston High School, she is largely responsible for my joining the staff as dean of discipline. The Golden Torch Award being awarded to Vice-Principal Latty-Johnson holds personal and symbolic significance for me because of the kind of person she is and what she symbolises.

When I joined the staff at Alston High School, there was some pushback and concerns raised by stakeholders about my ability to effectively serve the institution due to my affliction with mental illness. However, Vice-Principal Latty-Johnson stood on the principles of fairness and non-discrimination by ensuring that due process was followed and respected in the selection and retention of a dean of discipline.

She was given the moniker “Mammy Jay” for her motherly disposition and care towards all of us at Alston High School, especially those of us who may be going through “wilderness experiences” at times. She is such a great example of someone who not only opens doors for others but keeps them open until we believe in ourselves enough to walk through on our own, unaided and unassisted. She has repeatedly spent her privilege and deposited her trust on behalf of countless students and colleagues during her long and exemplary professional life as an educator.

I want to publicly thank her for her service to education, particularly to the Alston High School where she has spent most of her professional life. This exceptional educator is most deserving of this award. Continue to positively impact lives and change the society for the better, Vice-Principal Latty-Johnson. You have inspired me and countless others.

Continue to speak love, speak life, speak hope, speak success, and endear yourself through exemplary and selfless service, coupled with godly living. The word is always love!

Andre’ A O Wellington

Dean of Discipline, Alston High School

andrewellington344@yahoo.com