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Jefferey Town Basic School in St Mary is one step closer to becoming a fully certified institution by the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), thanks to the recent establishment of a play area by the local JN Circle Chapter.

The project was funded by the JN Foundation. The handover marks a significant milestone for the school, which had previously missed full certification by just five percentage points, due to the lack of proper recreational infrastructure. The new facility now satisfies one of the final requirements for ECC certification, which the school anticipates securing at its upcoming inspection in September.

Speaking at the recent handover ceremony, Principal Monica Henry-Grandison expressed heartfelt appreciation to the JN Foundation and the JN Circle.

"I am so happy," she said. " I stand here to speak about how grateful we are as a community to JN Foundation for the support they have given to us." She explained that during a 2021 inspection, the school scored 95 per cent, falling short only because it lacked a shaded play area, an upgrade the school could not afford on its own.

"Two years ago, we reached out and developed a relationship with JN Circle. They supported us, and we've been back and forth working on this. But we are happy today to say that the project is now complete. We are back on our way, journeying together to build school and society," she added.

The JN Circle is a global network of JN members and customers who leverage the JN Group's resources to serve as advocates and community change agents. Pamila Richmond, president of the JN Circle covering Ocho Rios (St Ann), Port Maria and Gayle (both St Mary), also highlighted the broad impact the project will have on development of the area.

"We are pleased to be a part of this initiative that builds communities and nurtures our young, bright minds," she said. "Education is not only about teaching and learning but about the holistic development of our children. When we help them to dream and see a vision for themselves, we are helping to shape their futures."

Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation, commended the volunteers of the JN Circle for identifying the need and championing the project.

"This play area is more than just equipment; it is a stepping stone toward national certification and a better future for the children of this community," Allen said. "We are proud to support this school, which truly stands out as a benchmark for what early childhood education should look like."

The new play area is part of a wider effort by the JN Foundation to create safe and engaging spaces for young learners. Jefferey Town is now one of five schools that have benefited from similar support from the JN Foundation through the JN Circle network across the country, with total investments exceeding $2 million. The school has also benefited from a new shaded area and rainwater harvesting water tank stand.