Six inducted into executive principals' league

Six principals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities have been chosen as the second batch to be officially inducted into the National College for Educational Leadership (NCEL) Executive Principals' League (EPL).

They are principal of Allman Town Primary, Kandi-Lee Alexandria Crooks-Smith; principal of Manchester High, Jasford Gabriel; principal of Ardenne High, Nadine Molloy; principal of Petersfield Primary and Infant, Susan Rattray-Hammond; principal of York Castle High, Raymon Treasure; and Principal of Belmont Academy, Rayon Simpson.

The EPL is a vehicle through which its members will share best practices and innovative ideas while serving as ambassadors for the College. League members also provide guidance to NCEL concerning its programmes, so as to ensure their continued relevance to the local educational landscape.

It serves as a catalyst for the advancement of the College's mandate, which is the development and sustenance of excellent leadership in the educational sector and the strengthening and promulgation of national morals and values.

Speaking at the recent announcement ceremony, Minister of Education, Youth and Information Ruel Reid, encouraged the principals to continue making a positive impact that will redound to the benefit of the sector.

"The recognition that you are getting is not a monetary recognition; it's a validation of your excellence that money can't even buy," he said.

The minister reminded the principals that much is expected of them and encouraged them to mentor and inspire the new principals.

"As leaders of this great league, we have to be transformational leaders, but part of the greater message is that not only the excellence that you have achieved must become a habit, but you have to infect the rest of the principals throughout the length the breath of Jamaica," he said.

SOCIAL CHALLENGES

Reid said although they may be faced with social challenges while carrying out the operations at their various institutions, they should remain focused in their pursuit of greatness.

The minister noted that the training NCEL provides will assist them in being effective in human resource management, financial management and implementing curricula.

Responding on behalf of the inductees, Principal Crooks-Smith said they were humbled and were honoured to serve.

"Through coaching and mentorship, we will continue to offer our support and encouragement to our colleagues. We will intensify the campaign to respect and protect our children," she said.

Crooks-Smith noted that this is another avenue for them to pool their knowledge, skills, resources and talents to activate a regional and national conversation on the subject of leadership.

"My colleagues and I will renew our commitment to utilise effective traditional and alternative solutions to address our challenges. Indeed, we will continue to challenge the norms that are non-productive," she said.

The six principals were presented with EPL emblazoned blazers and lapel pins.