CLASS OF 1977 - GIVES BACK
PHYSICS LAB REFURBISHING PROJECT
Holmwood Technical High School
The Physics Lab renovation project was the idea of Ervin Lyle, following his visit to the school in late 2017 where he saw a Lab that was in an advanced state of disrepair. The idea was shared with Daswell Jones and Vernal Gentles, who subsequently visited the school, and witnessed a Lab where windows were covered with graffiti and furniture and fixtures were not operational and/or in a state that was not
conducive to learning.
The decision was taken to raise funds from members of the class of 77 to renovate
the Lab, as a project commemorating our 40th anniversary of graduating. This was
shared with the Principal, who consented, and helped determine the scope of the
work. After about a year of fundraising, the execution of the project started July 2, 2019,
with Gentles being the local project coordinator, with support from Daswell Jones.
Project Cost
The cost of the project was approximately J$1.266M and included the following:
- Complete re-wiring of the classroom and storage room, to include replacing nine 4 ft. double candescent light fixture, with LED bulbs and fixtures, eleven 2-Gang outlets, one duplex outlet, and four single-pole switches.
- Upgrading approximately 66 feet of work desk and 36 feet of cupboard.
- Replacing 45, twenty-four-inch aluminum window blades.
- Spray painting approximately 450 square feet aluminum window blades.
- Replacing two-leaf v-jointed entrance door and one flush panel door.
- Replacing one bordered 8 ft. x 4 ft. white-board and 4 ft. x 2 1⁄2 ft. Notice Board
- Painting doors, internal walls, ceiling, and floor of classroom
- Installing 2 Lab sinks and gooseneck faucets to include connecting water, and outlet drain pipes.
- Installing/Upgrading gas infrastructure to include 9 double outlet and three single outlet gas ports; and testing of gas line for leakage.
- Supply and install one - 100lb gas cylinder and regulator.
- Supply twenty, 28-inch high laboratory stools.
- Disinfecting and repainting walls, ceiling, floor, and windows of storeroom
- Installing Recognition Board with the names of contributors to the project.
CLASS OF 1978 - GIVES BACK
CHEMISTRY LAB REFURBISHING PROJECT
In June of 2019, several members of the class of 1978 agreed to donate funds to refurbish the chemistry lab at Holmwood. Members in the USA, Canada, Bermuda and Jamaica made donations over several weeks; and in August of 2019 the first donation was transferred to the school.
The New York Chapter in learning of the project, agreed to partner with the class of '78 and conrtributed US$3,000.00. In November 2020 a final amount was transferred to the school for a total contribution of over US$8,500.00. We are grateful to all the members who contributed and those who visited the school, sent pictures and reported on the progress of the renovation.
Securing Holm: The HPSA Delivers New Security System
HPSA Installs Security System at Holmwood
In a country where the security challenges are many, Holmwood has faced its own set of problems with break-ins and loss of important equipment and supplies. Given this reality, the HPSA has taken on the security of the school as one of it priority projects.
With the recent assignment of a new Principal, and new Board Chairman, the school leadership has begun the process of transforming the institution through development of a comprehensive School Improvement Plan. One priority item is the urgent need to enhance overall security (perimeter and operational) at the school. The HPSA, having evaluated the options; in consultation with school leadership and external subject matter experts, decided to assume responsibility for acquisition and installation of a robust CCTV/surveillance system.
Sourcing of funds and installation planning were led by a committee consisting of past students. Funds were sought via the establishment of an Internet based GoFundMe account, contributions from the regional and international chapters and some independent donations.
The surveillance system was purchased and shipped to Jamaica, courtesy of past student Junior Taylor. The current school LAN network needed upgrading in order to support the surveillance system and perform everyday computing functions. As a result, network equipment were also sourced, and donated by a US based past student.
Eastern Chapter SUPPORTS ACADEMICS AND SPORTS
Eastern Chapter Supports Academic & Sports Programmes at Holmwood
HPSA Eastern Chapter, based in Kingston, maintains its tradition of consistent support to Holmwood, encompassing academic, infrastructure, mentorship and sports.
The Chapter’s year-round sports support programme incorporates netball, football, cricket, badminton and track & field. Areas of support include:
· Nutrition programme for athletes
· Accommodation, meals and vitamins for the students;
· Safety and security of the sports teams while they are in camps or on trips;
· Financial support for the coaches;
· Attending events in which Holmwood students are competing.
Other recent activities include repainting of school buildings and donation of books, at the request of the Principal.
As the only local chapter, Eastern, is well positioned as the ‘response team’ in emergency situations related to Holmwood. The Chapter maintains communication with the Principal; and members are on call to provide advice and support as necessary.
The Chapter undertakes two main fundraising activities, annually – the Fathers’ Day Brunch and the Cookout. The proceeds from these ventures are in aid of school development projects.
In 2018, the Chapter is exploring specific initiatives to support the academic development of the athletes. The mentorship programme is also being revisited, starting with a review of the programme guidelines.
NEW YORK CHAPTER BUILDS NEW CLASSROOMS
New York Chapter Commits US$21,000 to New Classrooms at Holmwood
Holmwood’s New Principal, Mr. Hidran Mckulsky, has embarked on a much-needed initiative to rebuild the infrastructure at Holmwood. This initiative is among other rebranding and redevelopment activities that are being undertaken by the school 's leadership. The first accomplishment is evidenced by the spectacular impact of the repainting job that was recently completed.
One of the critical improvement areas identified by the Principal, is the need for additional classrooms. In response to this need, the New York Chapter stepped forward with a donation of US$10,000. This amount was later increased to US21,000. The Principal has expressed his gratitude to the Chapter for this initial donation towards the construction of at least 3 classrooms. Construction of has been completed, and the classrooms were opened for use at a ceremony on March23, 2018. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the past students association and representatives of the Ministry of Education.
South Florida Chapter Donates to Home Economics
HPSA SoFLo Donates to the Home Economics Depar
HPSA SoFLo Chapter, through various fundraising efforts, has donated the following items to our Alma Mater, for the Home Economics Department:
- Two refrigerators
- Eight – 30” stoves
- One washing machine
- One microwave
- A wide range of small utensils such as hand mixers, spatulas, measuring cups etc.
- In addition, nine (9) Framed photographs of athletes performing at Penn Relays were handed over to the school.
As part of HPSA’s SoFLo mandate to support the local community, a cheque was presented to Food For The Poor as the charity the chapter elected to support.
The Chapter thanks everyone for the continued support of our fundraisers as we continue to strive ‘TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE’ in the lives of others.
