Waterford Infant School salutes Aldith May Davis

Aldith May Davis, a 36-year veteran of the Waterford Infant School, was recognised recently by the Portmore, St Catherine-based early-childhood institution for her many years of service,

The function, held at The Knutsford Court Hotel, St Andrew, was filled with warm sentiments for the educator, who gave a total of 39 years of service to education. It was an elegant and beautiful occasion. In attendance were long-standing acquaintances of the honouree, educators, family members, and friends of the Waterford Infant School.

Born in the quiet community of Whitfield Town in Kingston to parents Herbert Davis and Eva Bryan, Davis was the first of six children, and the only girl. She held a special place in her brothers' hearts. Hence, she was considered the rose among the thorns.

THE EARLY YEARS

Her early years of school life began at Chetolah Park Primary, Kingston Senior, and later on at Carron Hall Vocational School in St Mary. It was after leaving Carron Hall that she went on to Bethlehem Teachers' College, where she obtained a certificate in primary education. She later obtained a diploma in primary education at St Joseph's Teachers' College.

Davis shone in every area of her academic studies and performed outstandingly. She gained her Bachelor of Science in education administration (cum laude) from the Western Carolina University in the United States. She also studied at the University of the West Indies Department of Extra Mural Studies, where she obtained certificates of merit in child psychology and development, as well as general psychology. In 1983, she also obtained credit in social psychology. Davis completed her master's at the United Theological College and currently is pursuing her doctorate in Christian ministry.

In September 1978, when Waterford Infant School was established, Davis became one of the first teachers there. The staff at the school often described her as 'mother hen', owing to her caring and nurturing qualities. One teacher commented that her kindness would never be forgotten, noting that she never begins a day without gathering her staff together for devotion.

Davis has served Waterford Infant School well and has moulded and shaped many young lives.

Her passion for children surpasses the call of duty, her colleagues say. Her kind heart and caring spirit make her reach out to the students unreservedly. She treats each child as her own. She cautions parents time and again, and gives them prudent advice on what they should do to adequately cater to the needs of their children.

Her contribution to education is reflected in the number of students she impacted, many of whom became teachers, doctors, soldiers, police officers and entrepreneurs, excelling in their various fields.