On May 6, 2025, the classrooms of St. Jude Primary School came alive with stories, laughter, and imagination as the 180 Degree Foundation joined the celebration of Read Across Jamaica Day. This annual national event, organized by the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA), is dedicated to promoting literacy and instilling a lifelong love of reading in children across the island. Each year in May, Jamaicans from all walks of life step into classrooms to share the power of storytelling, fostering language development and a brighter educational future for the nation’s youth.
This year, 17 volunteers, including members of the 180 Degree Foundation Board, dedicated their time to read to approximately 900 students across almost all grade levels at St. Jude’s Primary. Each reading featured a book written by a Jamaican author, showcasing local talent and creativity. At the end, each book was gifted to the class teacher for their reading corner, ensuring the stories would continue to inspire long after the day’s event. Every child also received a colourful sticker as a fun reminder of the joy of reading.
The selections included engaging titles such as Garnet’s BMX Adventure by Garnet Lopez, Here Comes the Morning by Protoje, Bell the Peacemaker and Jay’s Identity by Kaydian Cupidon, Arthur Loves to Fly by Colleen Wint-Bond, and Irie Morning by Alison Moss-Solomon. The stories sparked lively interactions, with volunteers weaving in activities, quizzes, and personal reflections that made the reading sessions both entertaining and meaningful.
This will undoubtedly cause a ripple effect across the school community. With books added to each classroom’s collection and memories of stories brought to life, the students were left with lasting encouragement to read more and explore their imaginations. For the 180 Degree Foundation, participating in Read Across Jamaica Day was more than just reading aloud—it was about investing in the future of Jamaica’s children through literacy, creativity, and the joy of storytelling.
