BOOST scholar sparks a love of mathematics 

For 2025 BOOST Scholarship recipient Jody-Ann Stephens, education has long been more than a profession; it is a route to opportunity, growth and change.

Raised in Portland Cottage, Clarendon, she knows the constraints many young Jamaicans face. As a child, she could not afford much of what her peers took for granted. Even so, she focused on her studies, seeing education as the surest way out of poverty.

Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Education was my pathway out of poverty. It gave me hope, purpose, and the belief that my circumstances did not have to determine my future.”

Those early experiences helped shape the resilient and empathetic educator she has become.

Teaching was not her initial ambition. At college, however, her aptitude emerged. Encouraged by friends and housemates, she began helping others grasp difficult material, discovering both a talent and a sense of purpose. The satisfaction of seeing others learn led her to the classroom.

Stephens is now a lower-school mathematics teacher and grade-eight form teacher at Vere Technical High School. Alongside her lessons, she guides students in personal development, decorum and life skills.

Her philosophy is simple: every child can succeed with the right support. She is known for going beyond the syllabus to ensure students feel both academically and emotionally supported.

“I believe every child can succeed once they are given the right guidance, encouragement, and opportunity. My goal is not only to teach mathematics, but also to help students develop the life skills and character traits they need to become successful individuals,” she said.

SUBJECT OF CHOICE

Mathematics remains her preferred subject for its emphasis on reasoning and problem-solving. She is keen to show students that it extends beyond numbers into everyday life.

“Mathematics teaches students how to think critically and solve problems, skills that extend far beyond the classroom,” she said.

Through interactive lessons, inquiry-based methods, peer learning and regular practice, she works to make the subject accessible. Her classroom encourages participation and curiosity.

“I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel supported, valued, and motivated to learn,” she added.

For Stephens, the greatest reward is watching confidence grow. She takes particular pride in students who begin uncertain and gradually find belief in their abilities.

“Seeing a struggling student finally understand a concept and believe in their abilities is one of the greatest achievements an educator can experience,” she said.

Being named a 2025 BOOST Scholarship recipient marks a notable milestone. It has opened opportunities for professional development and reinforced her commitment to teaching.

“Being selected as a 2025 BOOST Scholarship recipient has inspired me to continue pursuing excellence and making a meaningful impact in education,” she said.

The BOOST Scholarship, delivered with partners including The University of the West Indies, Mona, and the National Baking Company Foundation, forms part of a wider effort to strengthen STEM education.

For Stephens, joining the programme has sharpened her skills and extended her impact.

“The BOOST Programme provides opportunities that empower educators to grow professionally, while giving back to their schools and communities. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is passionate about education and personal growth,” she said.

Looking ahead, she plans to build on that progress, refining her methods and broadening her impact.

“Over the next five years, I hope to continue developing innovative teaching strategies that make learning more engaging, effective, and enjoyable for all students. Most importantly, I want to continue making a lasting impact on the lives of the young people I serve,” she said.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com