THE EDITOR, Sir:

Many stalwarts who have contributed to the development of our children oftentimes go unnoticed, and so I take the opportunity to laud the efforts of Leonard Emanuel Williams of Rock Hall All-Age School, one of the best principals ever. Though his style of leadership has been questioned by some, he commanded the respect of teachers, parents, students and the wider community. It is almost impossible to remember Mr Williams without his rod of correction, 'Doctor Do Good'.

The images are still vivid in my mind and many can testify that Mr Williams was a no-nonsense man. If you were in the late line, Doctor Do Good would surely greet you. In my time there, punctuality and self-discipline were priorities and my parents, Mr and Mrs Lansford Moore, fully supported this. Of course, we had fights and misdemeanour at school, but the very thought of a trip to the 'Doctor's' office made some put off an afternoon fight until dismissal time. If Mr Williams was walking on the opposite side to you, your heart would skip a beat. The very mention of his name made your heart quiver. His sense of hearing was exceptional, as he heard even a whisper, so you had to be silent when he spoke.

It was a sight to see unpunctual and disruptive boys and girls line up for their medicine. Your heart would just drop as you saw a fellow student return with tears, but at least you were taught a lesson. In my time, no medicine tasted good and this was no exception. I'm positive that this medicine has worked for many. In preparing us for society, he taught us that there was a penalty for not adhering to the rules and for deviant behaviour. If the Doctor was in effect today, I'm sure the results would be different. You could not be caught loitering on the corridors or wasting water at the pipe.

Disruptive boys

Not responding to the bell was a crime worthy of punishment, as was disrespecting a teacher. As the lunch bell went, you were expected to get in your grade lines. I had to go home for lunch at times and when I heard the bell, I had to gallop down the hill and run like crazy to get to my line. You had to ensure that you were properly attired and your hair well combed at all times. Mr Williams would inspect hands and nails for dirt and grease almost every day and he never left his partner, the Doctor. So you knew what to expect if you did not use the lunchtime wisely.

My years at Rock Hall School were not all about the books as we had a chance to play 'Dandy Shandy', baseball and other games at recreation time. We often had to recite memory gems such as "honesty is the best policy", "if at first you don't succeed, try and try again", "only the best is good enough", and the list goes on. Reading was paramount to our development. Ms Claudia Johnson and Ms. E. Gooden were the two main teachers who propelled my reading. Knowing the multiplication tables was equally important and every child was challenged to recite the 12-times table and beyond.

I am 22 now and it is still a joy to sit with siblings and reminisce on some of those moments. I have been taught the significance of punctuality, good conduct and respect for self and others. I have been taught to take responsibility for my actions and to value education, which has led me to where I am today. Despite the dilution of social and educational standards, it is with honour that I remember this stalwart who has left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Sir, wherever you are, be it known that I appreciate your efforts. Your labour was definitely not in vain.

I am, etc.,

Rennay Moore

kesharma_1@yahoo.com