Edith Thomas, the 2006 Governor-General's Achievement Award receipent for Clarendon with her plaque at a function, late last month, at the Runaway Bay HEART Academy, for the awardees for the county of Middlesex. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer
Improving the lives of many in need
Growing up in a single-parent home, Edith Thomas and her siblings faced many challenges, but were satisfied with the little benefits from her mother's meagre income.
Despite the hardships, Edith was determined to make life better for herself. A strong belief in the knowledge that a good education was the doorway for upward mobility, she studied diligently and qualified for entry to the Shortwood Teachers' College, in St. Andrew. The journey to get there, however, was punctuated with financial difficulties forcing her to take a pre-trained teaching position at the May Pen Primary School.
Determined to be a qualified teacher, she re-entered Shortwood Teachers' College and obtained a teaching diploma. She was now able to respond more effectively to the rigorous demands of the classroom.
Edith later joined the staff of the Cross Primary School, now Cross Primary and Junior High, where over the past 38 years, she has served as a classroom teacher, vice-principal and subsequently, principal - the latter position she has held for 25 years.
Gained a BSc degree
Driven to improve her education, she enrolled at the Western Carolina University, in North Carolina, where she gained a Bachelor of Science degree with honours. She further improved her qualification by obtaining a diploma in practical theology at the International Seminary in Florida.
In her selfless love for children, Ms. Thomas took a total of 12 youths into her home and raised them single-handedly. The sacrifices she made to care for them have paid off as they are now gainfully employed and are making a contribution to society.
Edith Thomas has a passion for her community and looks for ways to improve the everyday life for many in need.
She was instrumental in providing financial aid for a disabled resident and supplying four others with food and clothing. Currently, she serves as a member of the sponsoring body of the Sevens Road Basic School where she organises fund-raising activities to procure materials and equipment for the school.
She has also been a devout member of the May Pen Community Chorale for the past 25 years.
For her invaluable contribution and outstanding service to community, Edith Thomas is the 2006 recipient of the Governor-General's Achievement Award for Clarendon.
