A Beacon of Hope: Celebrating Dorothy Isaacs
She is the looking glass image of cause and conviction – teacher Dorothy Isaacs, 92 years and blooming, a special brand of Jamaica land we love. As she prepares to retire in 2024 after an incredible 53 years in the classroom, her legacy shines brighter than ever.
A Lifelong Commitment to Education
From the tender age of ten, Dorothy was already "playing school," guiding her peers in makeshift lessons at the back of her yard on Septimus Street in Jones Town, Kingston. Fast forward to today, and she has not only taught generations of children but has also become a beloved matriarch in her community. “To every member of the Jones Town community, she’s royal,” says a local resident, capturing the essence of her impact.
Honoring a Legacy
In 2025, Dorothy will be honored with the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Golden Torch Award for her unwavering service to education. When asked about her advice for today’s teachers, she emphasizes the importance of connection: “Get as close to them as possible – be involved with their lives.” This philosophy has been the cornerstone of her teaching career.
Musical Roots
A graduate of Mico College, Dorothy’s journey began at Caledonia Junior College and later at Chetolah Park Primary. She returned to her roots at Jones Town Primary, where she taught a full syllabus and even led music classes. Her musical talents, honed from childhood, allowed her to train the school choir to win numerous accolades in the Festival of Performing Arts. “They would always be behind me,” she chuckled, recalling how students would follow her home, eager for more than just lessons.
Community Impact
Dorothy’s influence extends beyond the classroom. As a mother of 11, she instilled values of responsibility and respect in her children, who are now educators, nurses, and accountants. After her husband Roland passed away, she returned to Kingston and continued her mission at Trinityville Primary, where she created a makeshift classroom for parents struggling with literacy. “Everyone was involved in the learning exercise,” she recalls, highlighting her commitment to community education.
Transforming Lives
Her nephew, George Cooke, a community development social worker, describes her as a stern disciplinarian who brought order and hope to many. “There’s good in everyone,” she believes, and her approach has transformed lives, turning slow learners into successful professionals.
A Vision for the Future
Reflecting on Jamaica’s 63 years of Independence, Dorothy sees education as a vital tool for national growth. “It meant an opportunity for us to be utilizing our talents and gifts to create a new pathway for the land we love,” she shares, emphasizing the role of teachers in shaping a brighter future.
In a world that often feels chaotic, Dorothy Isaacs stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the power of education and community. What will your legacy be?