Principal of Portmore Community College awarded OD

Rev. Dr. Austin Wright, the principal of Portmore Community College, will receive the Order of Distinction (OD) in the rank of Officer for his significant contributions to education. This honor will be conferred on National Heroes Day.

Dr. Wright's career in education spans 40 years, with 25 of those years spent as a principal. His dedication was previously recognized nationally in 2013 when he was awarded the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service for his work in education, community development, and religion. He expressed deep gratitude and humility upon learning of the upcoming OD award.

His passion for teaching emerged early. As a grade-six student, he would take charge of his classroom when his teacher stepped out. This childhood inclination towards leadership continued, with him later "playing teacher" to his mother's plants at home. This early exercise foreshadowed a lifelong commitment to nurturing growth and knowledge.

In 1986, Wright established an early-childhood institution at his father's church in Kingston, initially called Austin's School. Starting with just 10 students and lacking formal training, he relied on hired teachers and his mother's assistance with operations. The school, later named One Way Early Childhood Centre after a gift from overseas visitors, quickly grew. By 1987, it had approximately 30 students and soon gained recognition from the Ministry of Education, receiving government subsidies and attracting more students. The school also demonstrated resilience, accommodating students from damaged primary schools after Hurricane Gilbert in 1988.

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My first reaction was one of gratitude to the Almighty God and I was also humbled. I feel honoured and blessed to be receiving this award.