The Rockhouse Foundation's Model School in Savanna-la-mar

Rockhouse Foundation President Peter Rose and aspects of
the Savanna-la-mar Inclusive Infant Academy

Journeying through our country last week, one cannot help but fall in love all over again with our lush green hills and the kindness that has kept Jamaica going.  Come with me to the Savanna-la-mar Inclusive Infant Academy on Lewis Street, built by the Rockhouse Foundation with ongoing support from the Foundation and Ministry of Education, Information and Youth. 

The President of the Foundation Peter Rose walked us through the beautiful, airy spaces where happy children ran to hug us and enthusiastic teachers and therapists described the close attention paid to their charges.

This mixed ability, full inclusion model school has a population of 115 children, 30 percent of whom have ‘a diverse set of special needs.’ The remaining 70 percent of children are selected by what Peter describes as a ‘straight lottery’, to avoid favoritism in any form. The Foundation plans to further expand the school, provide a daycare centre and eventually, primary-level classes.

The high wooden ceilings of the village-like layout provide natural cooling – construction workers from the community were engaged for the project and there is creative artwork celebrating their participation.

 The well-equipped therapy room is where Halleah Addiman brings hope and healing. One child, brought in the arms of her parents, can now navigate the corridors of the school. Speech Language therapist Ann-Merita Golding provides services to the school, and described her work with the children, some of whom have needs beyond just articulation.

We noted the carefully planned meals – for snack time, the children enjoyed bowls of fresh fruit.  The pupils are provided with nutritious breakfasts, snacks and lunches, thanks to the involvement of the Rockhouse executive chef.  

The Rockhouse Hotel, the popular boutique hotel and restaurant on Negril’s West End, along with its ownership team does the heavy lifting for the Foundation, organizing overseas fundraisers with its legions of fans network of loyal donors. The Foundation also contracts buses to take the children to and from school.  Instead of purchasing sets of sometimes expensive books, the Foundation underwrites all photocopying of lessons for the children.

Such a great model - thank you Rockhouse Foundation!