Westmoreland, Jamaica – The community of Little London Primary School in Westmoreland is enveloped in grief as they mourn the loss of their beloved principal, Shirley Craig-Davis, who passed away on Saturday. Craig-Davis, who led the institution for a decade, succumbed to complications arising from a vehicle accident that had occurred two weeks prior.
Following the crash, Craig-Davis experienced a headache and sought medical attention at a hospital. She was subsequently prescribed medication and sent home. Unfortunately, her condition worsened as she suffered two strokes and was rushed to the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), where she ultimately died.
Nerissa Stephens, Vice Principal of Little London Primary School, expressed the depth of sorrow felt within the school community. “The atmosphere is very sad, very mournful. However, we are here for each other with support from various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA), and the Guidance Counselling Department. The level of support from parents, students, and the community at large is overwhelming and truly appreciated,” she shared.
In response to this tragic event, the school staff is participating in an all-day grief counselling session to process their loss. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has also come out in significant numbers to extend their support during this challenging time.
In light of the principal’s passing, the start of classes at Little London Primary has been postponed by a day. Stephens explained that similar grief counselling sessions will be conducted for students on Tuesday. “We needed to accommodate our staff first, ensuring they could grieve properly before engaging with students, as it’s essential we provide a full vessel when comforting our grieving children,” said the vice principal.
During the student counselling sessions, the school plans to hold their usual morning devotion followed by tailored grief counselling sessions for students, supported by parents and community members.
Little London Primary School, established in 1976, currently serves nearly 700 students with a dedicated academic staff of 24. The loss of Principal Craig-Davis marks a poignant chapter in the school’s history, leaving an indelible legacy of leadership and dedication.
