The Sandy Bay Basic Community School Renovations 2009-11

PRIOR TO Tryall Fund's 'SUCCESS BY SIX' model program launch
Prior to 2009 the Sandy Bay Basic Community School was having little success with student academics and enrollment was on the decline, the school was having problems paying its teachers and keeping children enrolled. Three separate classes were being taugh in one room. The noise level, congestion and lighting were not conducive to learning. The overcrowded school was not meeting the basic needs of the preschool children and was only 30% compliant with the Early Childhood Commission Standards set by the Jamaican government. The school was in jeopardy of closing.

The Tryall Fund 'Success by Six' building renovations began in January 2009

The Tryall Fund also expanded the overcrowded school by renovating an adjoining building which doubled the size of the school, creating a library, computer area, principal's office and additional classroom.

The newly renovated classroom and additional space were a welcome change for the teachers, children and their caregivers.

Once building renovations were complete, additional curriculum programs were added including customized computer programs for each student based on their individual learning needs, a breakfast and lunch program for the children, health and dental
screenings, teacher training, and assessments of each child's progress.

Our 'Success by Six' program is already seeing tremendous success in the students. Our initial three year olds are now finishing their last year at the Sandy Bay Basic before heading off to Primary school in the Fall of 2012. We feel they will be well prepared for their new schools. Our first graduating class completed their first year in Primary School in May of 2011, all placing in the top 5% of their new classes!