CHARMAINE HOLMES: Making a meaningful difference through education
Published:Saturday | July 27, 2024 | 12:07 AMOlivia Brown/Gleaner Writer
Charmaine Holmes’ journey as an educator spans an inspiring 38 years, marked by a transformative decision that redirected her life’s path.
Initially aspiring to become a paediatrician, her career trajectory took an unexpected turn during a pivotal moment in high school – a failed attempt at dissecting a frog.
This setback led her to explore other options during a career day activity, where a chance encounter with a teacher’s college booth sparked her curiosity.
Holmes, who has been teaching at her alma mater, Glenmuir High School in Clarendon since 1985, was recently recognised by the school with a platinum award for her dedicated service.
Holmes shared with The Gleaner that her journey as an educator began when she enrolled at the then Mico Teachers’ College, now Mico University College, where she embarked upon a journey that would define her life’s work. It was during that time that she and her peers embarked upon a profound initiative – teaching basic English to prisoners at Tamarind Farm Adult Correctional Centre.
Holmes said the experience was eye-opening, as she vividly recalled her astonishment that some of the men could not read. She cited the encounter as a turning point which instilled in her a deep sense of purpose, and a commitment to make a meaningful difference through education.
Her resolve solidified when a former student, upon release from prison, visited her and expressed gratitude for the impact her teaching had made. Holmes shared that the moment was pivotal, as she was determined to be a catalyst for change in the lives of students, nurturing their potential and shaping their futures with unwavering dedication.
“I could not understand how grown men could not read. This interaction changed my outlook on teaching. At the end of his incarceration, he came by the hostel to say thanks. I made up my mind to be a change agent in my students’ lives,” she shared with The Gleaner.
Holmes said that over the decades, she has consistently encouraged students to excel, emphasising the importance of trying rather than giving up.
“Every student knows my mantra: I like bright, intelligent and polished students. I like students who are disciplined and mannerly. If you are slow and willing to work, I will be there 100 per cent trying to help,” she said.
APPROACHABLE
“The message has been passed down, so those with siblings or friends know that while I am miserable for my work, they can talk to me. I have told them that I may look stern, but I am a really nice teacher.”
Holmes added, “The students have changed over the years. I have had students who challenged my thinking on a wide range of topics, so I had to make sure that I had my facts and could defend my viewpoints. Despite the change with most being solely glued to their cell phones, there is still the warm feeling that some have digested my message of being the best that they can be.”
The educator expressed fulfilment in visiting various places and encountering her former students thriving in prominent roles.
“It is rewarding when I go to the banks and my students make my day by acknowledging me. Or going through customs at the airport and seeing my students who get me through seamlessly as my reward for caring for them,” Holmes shared.
“When students graduate and send me pictures and say thanks for never giving up on them, it makes my efforts even more rewarding. A particular student never ceases to take my Bath & Body Works bag for me whenever he returns from holidays.”
Asserting the role of a teacher as holistic, Holmes said, “The role of a teacher has evolved. It also involves being a parent, a counsellor, an automated teller machine, a cheerleader … and it continues. I tend to be the one who sees when a haircut is needed, the socks need washing, and the one who gives wipes to freshen up during the hot days.”
Quizzed on her advice for teachers, the 38-year veteran said, “Teachers need to remind themselves that they once were students and got into mischief, too. They need to be firm when needed, but also should be able to laugh with students, and at him/herself if necessary. Life is short and grudges should be thrown into the sea.’’