dms dress down for learning

(CNS): Local business conglomerate, dms Organization Ltd. (dms), is organising a ‘dress up – dress down day’ this Friday to raise additional funds for its Joanna Clarke Scholarship Fund. The new fund will offer financial support to an aspiring or existing educator looking to further their education or expand their professional development.  Participation in ‘dress up-dress down day’ is open to any local organization or individual willing to make a donation and dms is encouraging everybody to take part.

This scholarship fund will be in addition to its Joanna Clarke Excellence in Education Award (JCA), whereby dms grants up to $12,000 KYD annually to a worthy recipient(s). dms first introduced the JCA to publicly acknowledge the efforts of people and organizations that contribute to education in the Cayman Islands. 

“With their significant influence on young minds, dms believes that educators represent the future of Cayman as they encourage our local youth to discover their potential,” said President of dms Don Seymour. “Through this fund, it is our honour to do our part to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions that our teachers have in ensuring Cayman’s tomorrow.”

 The JCA Committee Member Lydia Warren said the fund was all about recognizing those who champion education, the JCA Committee and dms alike encourage the local business community tosupport the fundraising effort.. “This scholarship fund demonstrates our appreciation for the role that educators play, for this important profession does not always receive the recognition that it deserves. We appeal to the community to join with us in this endeavour,” she added.

Previous recipients of the JCA include last year’s winner, the N.C.V.O.’s Nadine Andreas Residential Foster Home for its Accessing Computer Aided Learning programme and runner-up – Cayman Islands Scout Association for Cayman Islands Scout Band. The 2008 recipient was John Gray High School for its “Blueprint for Literacy” initiative which aimed to ensure that all high school students, upon graduation, will be able to perform at their grade levels and pass at least four external exams. The 2007 recipient was Savannah Primary School PTA, which used the funding to pay for new playground equipment.

For further information on the Joanna Clarke Excellence in Education Award or Scholarship Fund, visit www.joannaclarkeaward.ky