CASCADE, Hanover — Once made up of leaky-roofed classrooms only separated by chalkboards, Brownsville Primary and Infant School has been transformed.

Principal Sophia Bucknor now describes it as the most beautiful infant department in the parish of Hanover.

What used to be an old termite-ridden cottage is now a state-of-the-art institution. The building has three classrooms, each with its own bathroom; a kitchenette, a sick bay — which they never had at the previous location — and a smart room equipped with 75 interactive TVs.

“The upper deck of the building they were in before this move was condemned; when it rained water leaked through the ceiling,” Bucknor told the
Jamaica Observer. “So I have been trying to get assistance to renovate the old cottage that was once used as living quarters for the principal, as it would have been cheaper to renovate the cottage than to repair the old building.”

Hedonism II Foundation heard about the school’s plight and decided to help. Work began in April 2023 and on June 5, 2024, there was a ceremony to mark the official opening.

“I really just want to express appreciation to the Hedonism II Foundation for making the journey and for doing all that they did for us,” Bucknor stated. “To renovate a building is one, but to furnish that building down to a pencil is another.”

The foundation also purchased new furniture for students and teachers. Fencing was installed around the building to provide a safe outdoor play area for the children. A swing, monkey bar and other playground equipment were installed, a first for the school. In addition, a 1,000-gallon water tank and a water cooler were also provided.

The infant department has 46 students aged three years to six years old. There are another 45 students enrolled on the primary side.

“The Hedonism II Foundation has been carrying out several projects and outreach programmes in Hanover and Westmoreland since August 2022 and we are committed to continue inspiring hope in the community,” explained Hedonism II Foundation’s Community Outreach Project Manager Fiona McGrowder.

A grateful Bucknor told the Observer that the support provided by the foundation will enhance the excellent work her team has been doing over the years despite the challenging circumstances. She said the solid foundation laid at the infant level contributed to the primary students’ performance in PEP exams. Bucknor also noted that five-year-old A’Jhani Hume, who delivered the vote of thanks during the opening ceremony, is currently reading at a grade four level. She expects that with the upgrading of the infant department, he and the other children will perform even better.

“We will be able to include the STEM and STEAM approach to learning, moving away from the chalk and talk,” the principal said. “Children learn differently, and it is important we introduce them to technology.”

Also present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony was education officer Yvonne Ward-Hardie; school board Chairman Escar Wynter along with teachers, students and parents.