WHAT COMES to mind when you hear 'Spring Break'? Chances are, the mention of those words conjures up the images we have all seen on television, or in the newspaper - those young people flocking in their hoards to beach resorts and hotels, ready to party and enjoy time away from home and school. Indeed, many in Jamaica see this time of year and its promotion as a negative reflection on the Caribbean tourism industry.
Last February, however, eight students from Furman Liberal Arts College in South Carolina came to Jamaica during their spring vacation with a different purpose in mind. They came to work at Hannah Town Preparatory School in Downtown Kingston and Iona High School in Tower Isle, Ocho Rios, both educational institutions operated by the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.
While in Kingston, Sean, Megan and Kelly stayed at the Springburn House in Meadowbrook, travelling daily to the Hannah Town area. On a typical day special activities such as crafts, sports and story-telling for the children were organised.
In the two schools visted, the children, separated in groups, tackled various creative tasks, on which they shared at the end of the day.
The Furman team worked diligently, endearing themselves to children and staff alike. They also distributed invaluable educational and craft supplies, which were used to make masks and puppets for the children. They also contributed medical supplies, which will be very useful in the future for the schools.
The group which left for the US on March 5 was hosted under the patronage of the United Church.
