Carette Hynes

As a third generation teacher, my interest in the profession peaked after being influenced by the most patient, motivating and gifted of souls; my mother (now deceased) and a very special high school teacher. Whilst teaching was not my first career choice, I pledged that if I peradventure took that path, I wanted to be the embodiment of their characters.  

I completed training in Home Economics Education at Shortwood Teachers' College in 1999. My tenure as an educator has been fulfilling and rewarding and now sees me strategically positioned to contribute directly to the growth of human capital which is critical to the ability of our country Jamaica to succeed.  With a burning desire to continue making a positive impact in the lives of the nation's children.

My teaching style encapsulates a range of methodologies and techniques which foster active participation, creativity, enthusiasm and critical thinking. The use of Differentiated instruction and learning activities coupled with various technological tools cater to the various learning styles present during sessions and keeps students inspired, engaged and challenged. My students are encouraged to take risks; while sharing their thoughts, ideas and suggestions freely in a safe space where tolerance, confidentiality and respect abounds.

Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) has been recently added to my portfolio and I am constantly seeking to sharpen my skills to effectively deliver the content. The importance of this subject is grossly underestimated. It affords students the opportunity to learn positive values and life skills to effect behaviour change. 

Teaching HFLE during the pandemic presented quite a few challenges, one of which was sourcing appropriate video content for some topics. Hence unearthing my skills in video production and graphic design. When I created my videos, they included concepts and context suitable for my lessons. Therefore, I did not hesitate to sign up for this programme which is an opportunity to hone new skills to improve learning outcomes and grow professionally.  

"I don't always get it right, but I always do my BEST!"

 #1 Leverage my knowledge and skills, through research, modification and adaptation of available resources, to propel my students towards success. 

#2 Contribute towards the strategic growth potential of the institution to which I am employed by offering peer assistance and collaboration for educational strengthening and delivery. 

#3 Conduct regular self-assessment/ self-evaluation while focusing on life-long pursuit for self and professional development 

#4 Maintain a high level of professionalism and self-awareness.