Newell Rhoden - Elgin Taylor

The Jamaican education system has in recent years come in for a lot of bashing from lawmen and scholars alike.

While there may be merit in some of the criticisms, there are many teachers in the system who have given and continue to make invaluable contribution to the profession. One such individual who The Star had the pleasure of interviewing recently, is Newell Rhoden, principal of Goshen All Age School in St Elizabeth.

Born in Jointwood in the parish, Rhoden said that as a youngster he harboured thoughts of becoming a teacher, and was given support by his late father who died months before his graduation from Mico Teacher Training College in St Andrew.

contribution to society

Regarding his philosophy of teaching he told The Star, "I live to impart knowledge, and that gives me joy. I like to share what I have with others and watch their development." He stated that scores of persons have passed through his hands and are now making their contribution to society in various fields.

Rhoden received professional training at Mico Teacher Training College between September 1972 and June 1975, the University of the West Indies, Mona, and West Carolina University in the United States of America, from which he obtained a master's degree in education.

He worked at several schools including Elderslie All Age School in St Elizabeth (1970-1971), Cornwall Mountain All Age in Westmoreland (1971-1972), Marlie Mount Primary School (1974-1979), Horizon Park All Age (1979-1980), Bog Walk Secondary (1980-1981) and Morningside Primary in St. Elizabeth. He has been principal of Goshen All Age School in St Elizabeth since September 1983.

He lists his specialist areas as Music, Mathematics, Administration and Supervision, Curriculum Develo-pment and Evaluation, Testing and Measurement.

He is also currently writing a Mathematics textbook.

Rhoden is an accomplished pianist, initially self-taught, who, for nine years operated a music school in Santa Cruz, St Elizabeth. His talent is on show every Sunday at the St Andrew Anglican Church in Gilnock, St Elizabeth.

Other areas of involvement include part-time lecturer with the Inter-national University of the Caribbean (IUC), president of the St Elizabeth Principals' Association, training officer for the Electoral Office of Jamaica and music adjudicator with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission.

Among his awards are: Lasco Principal for the month of August 2000, the Governor General Award for dedicated service to education, as well as the Jamaica Teachers' Association's Golden Torch Award.