To THE EDITOR: As a proud Jamaican and a high school teacher currently serving in Georgia, I have been following the national conversation surrounding the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) Bill with great interest. While I understand that many educators in Jamaica have voiced concerns, I feel compelled to share my perspective as someone who has experienced the value of professional licensing and regulation firsthand.
In the United States, teachers are expected to meet standards, earn recognized qualifications, and maintain their license through continuous professional development. These requirements are not designed to limit or punish teachers; they elevate the profession, protect students, and ensure public confidence in the education system. Why should it be any different in Jamaica?
The JTC Bill, from what I understand, seeks to formally establish the Jamaica Teaching Council as the regulatory body responsible for ensuring that all teachers in Jamaica are registered, licensed, and held to clear professional standards. This is long overdue. Teaching is a profession, just like medicine, law, or engineering. It deserves the same level of oversight, credibility, and public trust. By licensing teachers, Jamaica is not diminishing their worth; it is recognizing their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
I have heard concerns about a possible increase in teacher migration or “brain drain.” But let’s be honest, if Jamaican teachers leave for the United States or other countries, they cannot escape certain requirements. They will still be required to meet licensing standards, undergo training, and, in most cases, relicense in their new jurisdiction. Professional accountability is universal. We cannot view this as a burden unique to Jamaica when there is, in fact, a standard for teaching across the globe.
I also understand that some teachers have raised concerns about the potential sanctions outlined in the Bill. While these concerns are understandable, it’s important to recognize that accountability measures are a normal part of every respected profession. They exist not to punish, but to maintain the integrity and standards of the field. More importantly, licensing affirms the value of teachers as qualified professionals, and ongoing relicensing and submission of police records ensure that those entrusted with educating our nation’s children are fully prepared and capable of delivering quality education.
I believe this is a move in the right direction. It puts Jamaican teachers on par with their international counterparts. It opens up opportunities and strengthens the profession at home. Most importantly, it sends a clear message to students, parents, and the wider society that teaching is a noble and professional calling.
I urge my fellow educators in Jamaica to view this as an opportunity to uplift the profession and improve the quality of education for all.
