School’s Music Programme and Families’ Back-to-School Efforts Bolstered with Donation from BTC & the Sandals Foundation  

KINGSTON, Jamaica, July 27, 2023 — The sound of music will be more melodic as the Wesley Methodist High school music department recently received a donation of more than 50 recorders from a guest at the Beaches Turks and Caicos resort (BTC). A retired music teacher, who stayed at the resort, took time to share with the eager students, teachers and administrators on the Reading Road Trip the value and benefits of music.

“These instruments were donated by colleagues and friends who have interest in the Pack for a Purpose programme with the Sandals and Beaches resorts. Being able to share with the students was a nostalgic feeling as the traditional musical appreciation is becoming a fading memory.  The recorder is one of the most dynamic musical instruments that can be added to an orchestra or group or be done in solo,” Judith Coniglio shared.

Performing Arts Director at the institution, Lavern Ferreira admitted that the donation will go a far way in improving the quality of their programme. Said Ferreira: “For us to be considered a worthy recipient by the Sandals Foundation team is remarkable.  Our students are passionate about delivering quality music and with this gift, we will be able to have more practice sessions and this will help in the quality of music that we deliver and what our students are exposed to.”

Lesha Lightbourne, a second form student shared, “We are grateful for these instruments. As a small group, the creative activities that we are involved in will certainly be bolstered as we seek to create a positive impact on the performing arts here in Turks and Caicos Islands. This is the commitment from the student group along with our teachers to ensure that these instruments will help in improving the educational component of the students here at Wesley Methodist High school.”

Additionally, with the resort’s continued drive to support families in the communities that they serve, the Holy Family Academy also received a wide assortment of educational supplies donated by guests through the Pack for a Purpose initiative.

James McAnally, general manager said supporting parents in their preparation for the upcoming school year is a deliberate effort of the resort team. “As a resort, we are always conscious of ensuring that we give back to our communities. The opportunity to give back to families at this time of the year is a deliberate initiative as this will enable parents to meet some of their needs and lessen the expenses that characterize the back-to-school shopping.”

Sister Maria Ellena Vasquez in sharing her appreciation for the educational item noted: “As an institution we are grateful. These items will definitely allow for the teaching and learning at this noble institution to improve especially for the new academic year. We appreciate the partnership from Beaches Turks and Caicos in looking out for the wellbeing of every student here in Providenciales and the Turks and Caicos Islands.”