Linstead Primary School celebrates 125 years

Staff and students of the Linstead Primary School in St Catherine commemorated the institution's 125 years of existence with a march on Monday.

The march went from the health centre on King Street - the grounds of which were the school's first home in 1900 - to East Avenue, its current location, where the participants were given the red carpet treatment. Principal Juni Tucker said it was a great occasion, which the institution feels very proud of.

"We can appreciate that 125 years of existence is a meaningful milestone, therefore we are celebrating today. We are allowing the students to walk on the red carpet and helium balloons will be released," said Tucker.

The school has seen several name changes in its history. It was originally named the Linstead Government School, that name was changed to the Linstead All-Age School in 1946. It was the Linstead Primary and Junior High School for a time, and then, since 2018, it has been Linstead Primary. The school currently has an enrolment of more than 500 students.

"The strength of an institution is its support system. We are blessed here, as we have an active parent-teacher association, old student association and a strong school board. These are what cause the continued growth," Tucker said.

The 125th Committee, which is headed by Tamika Clarke-Surgeon, worked assiduously to make the preparation a success. This series of activities included a luncheon, health fair, dinner and church service. The festivities will culminate in December with a banquet, honouring the alumni and retirees.

The school has been lauded for its academic achievements, in addition to its arts programme, which features prominently on the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's roster.

"My daughter is here and it feels good that the school is fully equipped with Internet and computers. In my time, it was different, but this shows growth," said parent Monica Farquharson.

Several persons said that the school is a meaningful part of the community.

"Is 'Linstead School' we know it as, and the community is proud, as many giants have come out of this school and I wish it continued growth," said Dillon Davidson, a resident.