Jodi Watts - Elgin Taylor

It is generally acknowledged that experience teaches wisdom, and in this context a teacher of ten years' standing should possess certain know-how about the inner workings of the profession.

Jodi Watts, a grade-three teacher at Marlie Mount Primary and Infant School in St Catherine, showed in a recent interview with The Star newspaper that she is very much aware of the challenges facing members of the teaching profession.

"As a teacher it is very challenging especially where the behaviour of the students is concerned. I believe that most of this has to be with the parents - the home culture. Parents just do not play an active part in their children's education.Take home work as an example, you give it out, but it is not done," she wailed.

Watts, who has a class of 42 slow learners, is of the belief that the shift system is proving to be a deterrent to the learning process.

"The shift system is another of the challenges. We operate a double shift, from seven to twelve noon, and from twelve noon to five o' clock, bearing in mind that these hours include time for devotion and lunch, leaving an inadequate number of contact teaching time with the students," she explained.

She also mentioned that her school was previously on the whole day system, and that this puts her in a good position to make a comparison of the two teaching arrangements. She said she hoped for the day when all schools in Jamaica would be off the dreaded shift system.

Watts is also of the view that the lack of adequate resources is stifling the education of the nation's youth. She mentioned in particular materials affording the 'hands-on' approach and for visual stimulation. She calls on the authorities to address this crucial weakness in the education system.

The Mico University-trained graduate said that she observed that her students have a liking for drama, among other things, and that she made good use of this knowledge.

"I notice their love of drama, and so I used it a lot in their reading. They also love to play, to watch things, and they love music. They read books according to their levels; there are several levels of competence, and you have to cater to all," stated the young educator.

Born in Spanish Town, St Catherine, she revealed that she always wanted to become a teacher. This ambition grew during her later education at The Queen's School in St Andrew, and St Catherine High School.

Watts also spoke feelingly about her students, adding that inspite of the challenges, they are responding positively to her teaching, and that this is really all that matters.