Group lobbies support for classroom supplies

A group set up to support public schools has called on the public to help ease a shortage of classroom supplies.

Support Public Schools hopes people will be inspired by the donation of $1,000 to every primary school on the island by the Green family, owners of the Hamilton Princess, after they were contacted by the organisation.

Juliana Snelling, founder of SPS, said: “We are all acutely aware of the urgent need that our public schoolteachers have for state-of-the-art classroom supplies and resources.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of the Green family and we hope that their magnanimous act inspires others to support our public schools.

“Bermuda is a small place but that just means that this initiative and the public’s generosity can make a real impact and help to enrich our classrooms.”

Schools spent the cash from the Greens on items such as colour printers, write and wipe clocks, mini football nets, art supplies and comfy floor seats.

The group contacted the family of tycoon Peter Green after they learnt they had given scholarships to Bermudian university students.

Alexander Green, one of Mr Green’s sons, said: “We’re pleased to be able to help Bermuda’s public schools and support their teachers in their mission to provide a first-class education for children.”

Support Public Schools has generated $85,000 worth of assistance for primary schools since June.

SPS was founded to enlist the help of members of the public who wanted to support public schools.

Teachers are asked to identify what they need, from board marker pens to musical instruments to language-learning software.

The specified equipment is bought at discount prices from Hamilton-based retailers AF Smith and Phoenix Stores.

Second-hand supplies, games, puzzles and paper are also welcomed.