BMA Established Computer Laboratory in Jamaican Primary School
Students at St. Ann’s Bay Primary are now equipped to readily access on-line educational materials through the use of several new, high speed, high capacity Pentium-4 computers and accompanying software. In addition, several students will be awarded scholarships towards meeting their financial needs for books and lunch. The Benevolent Missions of Atlanta (“BMA”), an Atlanta based non-profit organization, donated the computers and arranged for them to be shipped from Atlanta to Jamaica. This vibrant organization, which was formed a little over eighteen months ago, defines its mission as being dedicated to effectively harnessing and leveraging the time, talent and resources of the Jamaica-U.S. community to assist disadvantaged and at-risk children throughout Jamaica and in the metro Atlanta area. The organization receives funding primarily from Atlanta-based Jamaicans and friends who donate generously to BMA’s fundraising activities.

St. Ann's Bay Primary students exploring  capabilities of new computers.

BMA’s president, Dr. Conrad Ingram, a professor of chemistry in Atlanta, explained that the short term plan is to expand the program that was established at St. Ann’s Bay Primary to a total of six primary schools across Jamaica – one in each of the regions of greatest need as defined by the ministry of education.

The computer donation program was designed to provide institution-wide assistance for the benefit of multiple students. In particular, the computers will be utilized to improve students’ reading, writing, numeracy and computer literacy skills. Already, the school has installed selected learning software on the computers and is currently using them to develop students’ phonetic and research skills. In addition, some math software has been installed in an effort to integrate the use of the computers across disciplines. The schools’ principal, Mrs. Amy James, reported “drastic changes” in students’ motivation to learn since the arrival of the computers. Internet access will commence as soon as minor electrical modification to the computer laboratory is addressed by the school. Recently it was announced that the Jamaica government in partnership with the private sector is making internet connectivity available to several schools throughout the island. The arrival of the computers is therefore timely to make use of such connectivity.

Mr. Jovannia Henry, who is in charge of IT at St. Ann’s Bay Primary, reported that selected learning software has been installed on the systems and is being used to enhance the reading program and to develop students’ phonetic and research skills (through the use of Encarta). In addition some math software has been installed in an effort to integrate the use of the systems across educational disciplines. The IT department is also exploring the idea of introducing basic computer applications to a group of older students.

Members of BMA Visit With Students and Teachers at St. Anns Bay Primary
Their frequent trips to Jamaica have provided several BMA officers with opportunities to visit with
students and staff at the primary school on a fairly regular basis. During these visits, our members interact with and conduct motivational discussions with several students, offer them guidance on focusing, studying, setting and achieving their academic goals, overcoming social challenges, and on career choices. Our visiting members also engage discussions with the principal, guidance counselors, and grade teachers regarding the students’ progress, challenges faced by the institution, and BMA’s course of continued involvement.

President, Dr. Ingram visits with Principal, Mrs. Amy James, and students at St. Ann's Bay primary school.

One of BMA directors, Mrs. Jo-Ann McNish (right) visits with principal Mrs. Amy James (2nd left) and staff at St. Ann's Bay Primary.