Fort Lauderdale, Florida – In a powerful show of gratitude, alumni chapters of Calabar High School across the diaspora have once again joined forces with the Calabar Old Boys Association (COBA) in Jamaica and the Parent Teachers’ Association (PTA) to recognize the remarkable educators and support staff at their alma mater during Teacher Appreciation Week 2025.
Representing chapters from Washington, DC; New York; Atlanta; Toronto; the United Kingdom; and Florida, the diaspora network has pledged over $1,700,000 JMD to provide stipends and host a celebratory luncheon for the faculty, guidance counselors, administrative staff, and ancillary team at Calabar High School.
“We’re proud to continue this tradition of support,” said Michael McPherson, head of the Washington, DC Chapter. “Our teachers are more than just educators—they’re mentors, role models, and a daily source of strength and inspiration for our youth. We are honored to acknowledge their tireless work and lifelong impact.”
“Teachers are the backbone of any society,” said Karl Thompson, President of the Florida Chapter. “This gesture is just a small token of our immense appreciation for their dedication, especially through today’s many challenges. We will always stand with our educators.” Shaun Abrahams, president of New Chapter, echoed this sentiment, stating, “For this initiative, you can definitely count on us in New York.”
“We welcome every opportunity to celebrate and uplift our teachers,” added David Anderson, President of the Atlanta Chapter. “Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of Jamaica one student at a time.”
“The PTA is honored to partner with COBA and the alumni chapters to recognize our hardworking teachers,” said George Stewart, President of the Parent Teachers’ Association. “They face daily challenges with resilience and passion, and we’re proud to stand with them—not just this week, but every day.”
“It’s not just about the gift—it’s about the message we send,” Major Desmon Brown, COBA Jamaica president emphasized. “We see you, we value you, and we thank you for everything you do to shape future leaders.”
