Optimist Club of Old Harbour honours JTA president OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR, community activist, Principal of the Davis Primary School in St. Catherine, Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) President, Mrs. Lorraine Judith Spencer-Jarrett is the 2001 recipient of the Optimists Annual Achievement in Education Awards. The saying that no prophet is honoured in his country is challenged by this prestigious award given to Mrs. Spencer-Jarrett who was born in Old Harbour, and currently works in Old Harbour and resides in the same locale. Her over 30 years in the classroom as teacher, Principal and Vice Principal did not go unnoticed as she contributed to every facet of community life in St. Catherine. The Optimist Club of Old Harbour was founded in 1993 and since 1996 it has honoured five outstanding educators who have served in the St. Catherine area. The citation to Mrs. Spencer Jarrett read in part: "The Optimist Club of Old Harbour grasps this opportunity to pay tribute to you on your outstanding and invaluable contribution to the teaching profession. You are first and foremost a teacher. We have come to the conclusion that you could not have been any one else. Teaching to you is more than a profession, it is a calling." "As a daughter of Old Harbour, this community can boast of your worth and value and we are proud of you," the citation added. And a very emotional and appreciative Mrs. Spencer-Jarrett informed her audience that this is the "prized award of all the awards" that she has received. She reaffirmed her commitment and love for children and community service. Dr. Nadine Scott, Past President of the JTA brought greetings on behalf of the Association. She paid tribute to Mrs. Spencer-Jarrett for her outstanding life of service. Mr. Delano Franklyn, Attorney-at-Law and Chief Adviser to the Prime Minister was guest speaker at the function. In a nostalgic speech about his days as a student at various levels of the system he used the opportunity to highlight the important role of teachers to the society. "I feel honoured to have been once a student, honoured because I would not have been where I am if it were not for the part played by the teachers in my own short life. Teachers constitute the backbone of the development of this country."
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