Students from L.W. Young Junior High School were recently exposed to the art of painting and provided with the opportunity to channel their practical skills at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI). Eleven boys were chosen to participate in a dual enrollment program.
The ninth grade students are participating in the 10-week program that will culminate on December 5 while simultaneously completing junior school. The three classes include introduction to painting along with math and English on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The program is the brainchild of L.W. Young Vice Principal Stephen McPhee. He said the initiative is a source of motivation for the students and an extra push for them to excel.
"My principal, Janet Nixon, and the entire administrative team are very supportive of this initiative, recognizing that these students are social leaders but not academically motivated, however, they are practical learners," said McPhee. "We want to show them that learning can be fun for them and we need to create the environment for these students to bloom. We believe a sense of self-worth would affect their academic and social behavior."
Kenyetta Hepburn, the mother of a 14-year-old participant, is optimistic about the program.
"I believe this will help these boys with their grades a lot. My son is already talented with his hands and it will give him an opportunity to see what his career choices are," she said.
BTVI's Dean of Construction Trades Alexander Darville said the program debunks the misconception that many people have, that people do not need formal education for painting. He said there are many components associated with painting, including estimation and the preparation of surfaces.
Darville is convinced the program will result in an improvement in the young men.
"We believe it will assist with their attempt at the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) exams. This is a gateway into the institution and the long-term goal is that they would eventually do introduction to interior painting. This is how we change lives," said Darville.
Another parent, Stacey Outten, was thankful that her son, who likes painting, had been given the opportunity. She believes it will help him to become more responsible.
BTVI Painting and Decorating Instructor David Barry met with the youngsters prior to their official day of instruction and has already seen the difference in them. Although the boys will only be introduced to the painting program, Barry hopes it ignites an interest to return to BTVI later.
"They're excited to be in this environment. I hope they will stay in the painting program. The point is to finish the program. BTVI's painting program is about preservation as well, so it's much more than painting on a surface. We do furnishing finishing and wall covering too, as the interior part of painting," said Barry.
BTVI Academic Dean Pleshette McPhee said the benefits of the initiative will be monumental.
"Sometimes the schools may not be keeping students engaged and they may sometimes become a number. They should be channeled into the direction of their talents. We must harness the skills of our young children. This program is into saving lives," she said.
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