Audrey Jackson’s 25-Year Journey of Love, Sacrifice, and Impact in the Classroom

Through her years at Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College, Audrey Jackson viewed a career in teaching as merely transitional. But everything changed the moment she stepped into the classroom at Chasworth Primary and Infant School in Maroon Town, St James, and was greeted by the bright, smiling faces of her students.

Now, after 25 years in the classroom, Ms Jackson has no regrets that she fell in love with a profession that has brought her immense joy and fulfilment.

“I was in a government job for several years after leaving high school when I decided I needed a change and wanted to upgrade myself,” Ms Jackson shared. “After careful thought, I chose teaching and enrolled at Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College in St James.”

“At the time, I didn’t want to teach, it was supposed to be a steppingstone to another career. But I fell in love on the very first day I entered the classroom, and I’ve been here ever since.”

The JN member thrives on her daily interactions with children and eagerly looks forward to seeing her students each day. Although a teacher, she’s quick to point out that her role extends far beyond academics.

“When you walk through those gates in the morning, you’re not just a teacher. You become a mother, counsellor, provider, caregiver, even a nurse. Sometimes you have to hug and encourage them; other times, you help with lunch because some students can’t afford a meal. You give from the little you have because you want them to learn,” she revealed.

In her early years, Ms Jackson taught grade four before moving on to grades five and three. But her biggest challenge came when she was asked to teach grade six to prepare students for the Primary Exit Profile.

“I was sad when I was told I’d be teaching grade six because it requires a different approach. But I told myself I could do it. As I got used to it, I got better, and now I’m happy when I see my students succeed and move on to the schools of their choice,” she said.

“Seeing your students go on to successful careers whether they become lawyers, doctors, mechanics, farmers, or even return to teach alongside you fills you with satisfaction. It’s a satisfaction that can’t be compared to anything else.”

In today’s tech-driven world, keeping students engaged can be a challenge, but Miss Jackson embraces technology as a powerful teaching tool.

“If you want them excited, just find a YouTube video, they’ll perk up instantly, especially if it’s from someone they relate to,” she explained. “Technology has made teaching easier. It offers a fresh way to deliver lessons and hold their attention.”

Beyond teaching and caregiving, Miss Jackson has a special passion for her male students.

“Many people overlook them because they can be adventurous. But boys are generally more caring, eager to try new things, and appreciative of your efforts,” she said.

Despite her love for the job, she admits it can sometimes feel unrewarding.

“Society doesn’t always appreciate what we do. I tell people you won’t understand how hard our job is until you try it for a day or two. Then you’ll see we’ve done well as professionals because we continue to prove that education is the best and safest way to lift children and families out of poverty,” she explained.

Still, her commitment remains unwavering.

“I don’t do what I do for recognition,” she affirmed. “I do it for love because when my children succeed, it means I’ve succeeded too.”

Outside the classroom, Ms Jackson is active in her Springfield, St James community. She runs a charity that feeds the elderly and helps fund education for needy children, all in honour of her family.

“It’s our way of giving back. Helping those who can’t find a way to find one and giving them a chance at something better is also a good feeling,” she shared.

She is also looking forward to the future and taking each day as it comes.

“I’ll be retiring in a few years, but I will miss the classroom when the time comes. I have no regrets that I fell in love with the profession because it has brought me so much joy,” she said.