A second chance at life - 14-year-old goes back to school after missing a year

Rasbert Turner, Sunday Gleaner Writer

When 14-year-old Marcus Stenneth entered the Tredegar Park All-Age school in St Catherine on September 6, it was the first time he was setting foot in school in just about a year. Peer pressure and family issues led to the youngster making the streets his home for the past year. It was only recently when Angel Brown, a woman he described as his guardian angel, stepped in and started helping him get his life on track.

Stenneth was overcome with emotion as he looked around the school.

"It is a very good feeling to be back in school. It makes me feels so refreshed and alert. I am ready for learning, " Stenneth said.

He told The Sunday Gleaner that mathematics and English were his favourite subjects. He hasn't yet decided what he wants to be when he grows up.

Brown was just as pleased to be there.

"I feel very happy taking him to school today. It's a good feeling for everyone, "Brown said.

Neither wanted to speak much about the boy's year on the streets, opting instead to focus on the future.