by Marlene McPherson, Freelance Writer

Ena Barclay

More than 30 years in the classroom has shown that Ena Eulalee Barclay is not just a teacher but a leader in her own right.

Barclay is principal of the Lyssons Primary School in St. Thomas, a position she has held since 2003.

This multifaceted leader was trained in physical education and biology at Shortwood Teachers' College between 1974 and 1976; then at G.C. Foster College where she did upgrading in physical education and mathematics. Later, she studied music at the then Jamaica School of Music and obtained a certificate in School Music Teaching. Her educational achievements do not stop there, as she has received training in education administration at the University of the West Indies and the Mt. Saint Vincent University in Nova Scotia, Canada.

principled place

Apart from Lyssons' Primary, Barclay has taught at Trinityville Secondary. But, she later returned to the Lyssons Primary. Barclay told THE STAR she returned to the school because of the foundation which she received while there.

"Lyssons is a principled place, the management was good; at Lyssons you are nurtured, you are trained, chief among the trainers was first principal Mrs. Vera Keane. The environment was very caring and this has groomed me, because you are trained to work and give of your best," she said. Her stints at Lyssons have seen her teaching grades four to nine. Barclay said her hallmark is excellence and sets high standards for her students. "I like to see children perform at a high standard they have no option. I do not like mediocrity," Barclay said.

love for excellence

As a result of her love for excellence and progress, she and the Parent Teachers' Association(PTA) have embarked on a building project for the school computer training. The entire school went on a fund-raising event and all have joined her in taking the risk to start the building.

Today, this project is at a standstill because the school has no money and would welcome any donation. She has even seen the need to establish a vegetable garden and the raring of chickens for the canteen. Produce and poultry have been sold to community members to make extra cash.

These activities have placed Barclay at the helm, showing her leadership ability. Her students have caught on to her leadership skills to the extent that some want to become teachers.

"One year, I had a grade six class and nearly all the students wanted to become a teacher," she said. Her efforts and services have not gone unnoticed. She has received the W.B.C. Hawthorne award for service to the national education system and the Lasco teacher of the month award for January 1994. These awards energised her to continue working hard.

"I love to work and give service. I like the profession. It offers a lot of opportunities. You are given opportunities to mould lives," she said.

Barclay also gave some advice to youngsters who want to become teachers.

"Think carefully before making the decision to teach. If you want to get rich quickly, you will be frustrated. But, if you want a small salary and want to make a difference in the lives of children and you are prepared to work hard, you can consider teaching. Remember, everything goes back to the teacher", she advised.

Mrs. Barclay is truly a leader, a mother of two successful daughters and a proud teacher.