Fighting the JTC bill is fighting progress

THE EDITOR, Madam:

As a Jamaican and a high-school teacher currently living and working in Georgia, I have been following the conversation surrounding the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC). While 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 first-hand.

In the United States, teachers are expected to meet standards, earn recognised qualifications, and maintain their licence 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 recognising their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.

There are concerns about a possible increase in teacher migration or ‘brain drain’. But, let’s be honest, if Jamaican teachers leave for the US 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.

Some teachers have raised concerns about the potential sanctions outlined in the bill. While these concerns are understandable, it’s important to recognise 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.

Educators in Jamaica should view this as an opportunity to uplift the profession and improve the quality of education.

CAROL

WOODBURN-MCDONALD

Rockdale County High School

Georgia