Photo: Jamie Usher, highlighted educator for Belize FIRST Program

by Kristen Ku

BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 10, 2023

Teachers’ Appreciation Week is observed annually in the month of May from the 8th to the 12th, to recognize the hard work of teachers and the profound impact that they have on their students globally.

This year, the focus is on teachers being listened to and supported, and receiving the respect they deserve.

As part of that effort, a spotlight has been placed on outstanding teachers who have done exceptional work in and out of the classroom as they continue to influence their students.

Of the many exceptional teachers, Jamie Usher, a teacher and principal of Belize High School, has been chosen as one of 15 teachers from around the world to be recognized for her involvement in the second cohort of the international not-for-profit organization called FIRST Educators Recognition Program.

The FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Program is a robotics initiative aimed at encouraging STEM learning and skill building among young people ages 4 to 18.

FIRST has held annual challenges since 1989 and has been supported by sponsors, volunteers, and educators. Belize High School has so far participated in 3 of these challenges, with its team securing top spots in these competitions.

In acknowledgement of the effort it took to equip the Belize High School students to achieve this, FIRST has decided to honor Mrs. Jamie Usher.

“The FIRST® community is fortunate to have many dedicated and inspirational teachers who give their time and support to FIRST year after year. In the classroom and after school, FIRST educators serve as mentors and coaches to students through our robotics programs, help organize and volunteer for FIRST events in their schools and communities, and advocate for FIRST programs in their districts, helping students all over the world experience FIRST and build critical life and workforce skills,” they said on their website.

Of the 15 educators featured, Mrs. Usher is the only teacher from a country in the Caribbean, while the other educators are from Canada, Turkey, India, Mexico, Australia, and the United States.

“We, the BHS Team, are thrilled to receive this honor and are proud of our students’ achievements in robotics. As Belizean students explore robotics, we are here to offer our assistance. We firmly believe that robotics has the potential to create job opportunities in the STEM field. ‘Teamwork makes the Dream work,’” Usher told Amandala on Wednesday.

Usher’s school’s motto of “learners today, leaders tomorrow,” reflects her wish for all her students to build the necessary skills to be the changemakers in the world.

Along with the spotlight, Usher will be able to serve as a FIRST educator ambassador, participate in thought leadership in connection with FIRST digital properties, have opportunities for media interviews, attend key FIRST events, and collaborate on priority areas with the FIRST Education team.