It was the loss of the Jeffrey Town All-Age School, and the ongoing problems since then that brought together a group of former alumni from Jeffrey Town School to form the Jeffrey Town Education Association (JTEA). Our thoughts mushroomed and we began the work of organizing the J.T.E.A. Our work is not yet completed, we still have a long way to go, but we have made great strides. To date: the JTEA
celebrates seven (7) years of service to the community of Jeffrey Town, Saint Mary and the Greater Toronto Area. In keeping with the mandate on education the association established the Employability Award in 2007 that recognizes individuals who were not in main stream academic curricula. These are persons who have demonstrated excellence with their ability to take their skills and /or trade to a viable business level. The Jeffrey Town Education Association (JTEA) Bursary Award was established to recognize an accomplished student who was entering post secondary studies. In 2008 JTEA made significant contributions to aid the completion of the project for the Principal and Guidance Councilor’s Offices and washroom facilities at the Jeffrey Town School. JTEA also donated monetary contributions to the Graduates Program that is led by the Alliance of Jamaica Alumni Association (AJAA) to provide bursaries for students going into Post Secondary Institutions. In addition JTEA sponsored the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Christmas Luncheons for the children of Jeffrey Town All Age School which allowed each child to attend and enjoy the function without financial hardship. Over time other donations have been made to fill various needs in the G.T.A. Education has been and will no doubt remain the key to the success of our children. It has been said that “knowledge is power’ and the importance of this statement is evident when we consider the number of obstacles that each of us faces within our lifetime. Therefore, it is imperative that our children be equipped to navigate their lives with clear understanding and choice that will lead to a better future for all. JTEA would not have made these accomplishments without the support of our patrons and sponsors, for whom we have a great appreciation. Thanks for your cooperation and your continued effort in helping to find a way to fill the needs of the children in Jeffrey Town, Saint Mary.
