Change is good, especially when it is positive. For Shadrach W., a Grade 4 student at Christel House Jamaica, that change has been remarkable. He admits that when he first joined the school, he struggled. “I misbehaved with a lot of teachers and I didn’t have any manners in grade one. I even showed a teacher the middle finger.” 

Today, Shadrach’s story looks very different. Not only did he earn the award for Most Improved Behaviour, he also got the award for Most Improved Academics, a reflection of the growth he has made since coming to Christel House in 2021. He credits this transformation to the support of teachers like Ms. Allison Smith, now Vice Principal of Administration, and his Grade 5 teacher Ms. Lisa Dwyer. 

Ms. Smith has seen that growth firsthand. She explains, “He has grown in terms of his emotional regulation. He can now speak on his feelings. Shadrach used to have a lot of temper tantrums, where he would scream and use a lot of colorful words, but he’s now more in control, and because of that, his focus on academics has improved.” Ms. Smith went to say, ”He does really well in Spanish and dance which allows him to express himself.” 

Shadrach has developed a love for learning, especially languages. He says he enjoys paying close attention in Spanish class and is already thinking ahead. “In the future, I even want to learn Chinese.” My dream is to go overseas, open my business and be a CEO, just like Mrs. Stoney.” 

He is also looking forward to his next milestone. “I really want to go into grade 7 so I can head on to university afterwards,” he says, sharing his excitement for the future and his interest in science and writing. 

 “When I won the awards I felt really good and proud of myself. My mother told me school is the first step in being anything you want to be.” 

Outside of the classroom, Shadrach enjoys spending time with family and staying grounded in his values. “I like to play with my friends and especially my baby cousin,” and adds that he loves visiting his grandmother and enjoying her cooking while learning important life lessons. 

He also reflects deeply on his family, especially his mother. “Mommy carried me for nine months and has been taking care of me from that day. I don’t want anyone hurting her. I like to see her happy.” 

Shadrach recognizes the impact Christel House has had on his life. “Being a student here has helped me to get a good education, good food, my family don’t have to spend so much money for clothes or anything”. 

As he prepared for PEP, Shadrach admits he felt a bit nervous but remains committed. He shares that the Saturday booster classes, funded by American Friends of Jamaica  helped him, even as he balanced his time with church. 

Shadrach’s journey is one of growth, resilience, and possibility. His story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and determination, change is always possible.