A number of schools are now able to increase online learning access for students following a recent donation from CIBC FirstCaribbean.
Grace Combined School, Fond St. Jacques Primary, Augier Combined, Ciceron Primary, Babonneau Secondary, and Castries Comprehensive Secondary schools are the latest beneficiaries of the bank’s youth and education thrust.
On Friday October 29th, Grace Combined received five refurbished computers with all accessories sourced by the bank on the school’s behalf. The presentation was made to Principal Mr. Daniel Cooman and two students who are currently preparing for Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA).
On Wednesday November 10th, the bank awarded cheques to the Principals of Fond St. Jacques Primary and the Babonneau Secondary in the amount of $1,500 each for the purchase of educational devices. Augier Combined also received a cheque of $2,500 for the construction of six wooden lunch tables.
Speaking on behalf of the school representatives at the November 10th presentation, Augier Combined Principal Kajana James said that with much support from the corporate sector, her school has been able to narrow the virtual learning gap since the commencement of blended learning.
“However, there are still students whose families do not have the means or the technological competence to help their children continue their learning. An estimated 20% still have access challenges,” she said.
Principal Virgil Mongroo of Fond St. Jacques Primary reported that parents need support, and it befalls the school to see where they challenges lie and assist, within the constraints of limited resources. “Many parents have lost their jobs so keeping food on the table and keeping in class can be overwhelming. Some only have their phones to use for virtual learning and often do not have enough data to stay on. These devices will make a great difference”, Mrs. Mongroo concluded.
The Castries Comprehensive Secondary (CCSS) and the Ciceron Primary School also received contributions from the bank in response to requests for sponsorship of graduation activities at CCSS and the Ciceron School’s Mathematics Programme.
FirstCaribbean intends to lead these changes with the expertise, integrity and knowledge gained from banking in the Caribbean since 1836.