“With children living in the ghetto yah fi draw dem up. As small as dem be when dem lick head with other children, stealing and a lot of problem as boy pickney,” says Paulette, speaking with conviction about her grandchildren and the responsibility she carries. 

November is Parent Month, and at Christel House Jamaica it holds special meaning — our parents’ involvement is essential to their children’s success. This year, one extraordinary grandparent stood out: Ms. Paulette Smith, Christel House Jamaica’s Parent Champion for the 2024–2025 school year.

Paulette is the guardian of two of her grandchildren, Jermaine S. and Kaheim P.  At Christel House, families play a vital role — every student receives a full scholarship including meals, uniforms, transportation, academic resources, and psychosocial support. In return, parents commit to volunteering, attending workshops, and actively participating in school life. The expectation is 100 points per student each year. Paulette earned 513 points, an exceptional reflection of her dedication. For her, giving back simply honours the support she receives. 

Her journey into becoming the primary support system for her grandchildren hasn’t been easy, especially after raising six children herself. Jermaine’s father has been facing personal struggles that occasionally call for her support — “so it really takes a toll on me so much,” she explains. She adds that he still cares for his son and Paulette has stepped in as the main caregiver. “Me is all about book, see Jermaine now him like him free time when he is over his mother so me say alright me affi take him up.”  

For Kaheim, the situation was similar. Before Paulette intervened, he wasn’t attending school. His mother, Paulette’s daughter, was struggling with the demands of parenting, and Kaheim was falling behind. “That’s where his dad begged for help to get him on the right path,” she explains. She brought him to Christel House, though he has since moved on to another school. 

Living in an area that can be volatile, she values what Christel House offers: “Christel House is the best school, for me, my child Jermaine, he has learned so much here.” She continues, “The bus service the children dem more safe, they provide a lot for them… breakfast, lunch, uniform, bag, shoes, books and I appreciate that so much.” 

Today, Jermaine is thriving. He is now in Grade 6, a prefect, and in the running for Head Boy. “He couldn’t read that much, now he reads and is more involved in school… Jermaine used to talk a lot, now the talking has reduced.” He plays football, runs track, and continues to grow in confidence. “Jermaine can be whatever he wants to be,” she says. 

Among the many ways parents can contribute, Paulette enjoys being a bus monitor. She travels with students from her community, helps maintain order, and ensures they wash their hands when they arrive. Known for her firmness and consistency, she has become part of the children’s daily routine. 

Balancing her responsibilities never feels like too much. “No not ever… why doing so much for my grandson and sumn simple as that I can’t say no.” 

Paulette remains committed. “I’ll continue and always help out in any way I can.”