1,000 high-potential students given accelerated assistance in getting back to school

More than 1,000 students have been assisted in entering the new school year with renewed confidence, thanks to Excelerate Energy, Inc’s flagship back-to-school initiative.

The programme, designed to support high-potential students from families with limited resources in Clarendon, Old Harbour in St Catherine, and St James, provides critical financial assistance, school supplies, and bursaries to empower the next generation of leaders.

Excelerate’s back-to-school programme, originally launched in 2016, has become a cornerstone of the company’s commitment to education and youth development. This year, the programme continuee to make a positive impact across the parishes, with Excelerate collaborating with Food For The Poor Jamaica, one of its long-standing community allies, to coordinate logistics, manage vendor relations, and source essential school supplies, ensuring students were well equipped for the academic year.

As part of the initiative, over 1,000 students received financial aid worth $10,000 each, along with backpacks, notebooks and other supplies. More than 60 Primary Exit Profile and upper-school students were awarded bursaries valued at $25,000 and $50,000, respectively, to help cover tuition and examination fees.

Additionally, nearly 200 students from the Refinery Council communities in Hayes, Clarendon, were able to complete their medical examination ahead of the new academic year.

Verona Carter, vice president and general manager, Caribbean, Excelerate Energy, shared, “We are honoured to be part of these students’ journeys. By investing in education, we support individual growth and contribute to the development of our communities and nation. This initiative is just one of the many ways we continue to help build a brighter future for Jamaica’s youths and play our part in the country’s economic development.”

Since its launch almost a decade ago, Excelerate Energy’s back-to-school programme has benefitted more than 15,000 students, providing more than $250 million in financial aid, bursaries, and school supplies.

Excelerate said it was commited to ensuring that, despite financial challenges, the students will have the resources and confidence to excel in their studies and contribute to the development of their communities and Jamaica at large.

Parents, students and school administrators across the three parishes have expressed their appreciation for Excelerate Energy’s timely and impactful support.

Denzil Dickson, guidance counsellor and academic adviser at Herbert Morrison Technical High School, shared, “This initiative has had a profound impact on our students. It’s more than just financial aid; it’s about giving students the tools to succeed in school and beyond. We are truly grateful to Excelerate Energy for making such a difference.”

Yvette Phillips, a parent from Clarendon, whose daughter attends Central High School and received the $50,000 community bursary, noted, “The bursary will help us cover tuition and other expenses.

“It has lifted a huge burden off our shoulders, giving us peace of mind without the constant worry of financial strain.”

Gabrielle Bogle, daughter of Yvette Phillips, expressed her gratitude, as well.

“The bursary has made a big difference in helping me stay focused on my studies without worrying about financial challenges,” Bogle said.

“It means a lot to me and my family.”

Patricia Heath-Haley, teacher at Old Harbour Bay Primary School, emphasised how providing students with essential supplies supports both students and educators.

“When students have the right tools –books, pens, and notebooks – they can focus on learning without distractions. This support not only helps students engage in their education, but makes our job easier, contributing to a more productive learning environment.”

Meanwhile, Food For The Poor Jamaica expressed pride in the collaboration.

“We’ve worked with Excelerate on several initiatives since the pandemic, including their annual food hamper programme for PATH (Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education) families.” said Susan Moore, partnership and development director.

“Expanding our partnership to support this back-to-school initiative is a natural extension of our work. At Food For The Poor, we believe in empowering families and creating opportunities for growth. Together, we’re making a lasting impact on the lives of students and their families.”