Affiliations

We are part of the Caribbean and North American Arm (CAR/NAM) of this organization, which includes member organizations: 

• Bahamas BALPA
• Canada ALPA-C
• Cayman Islands CAPA
• Leeward Islands LIALPA
• Mexico ASPA
• Trinidad & Tobago TTALPA
• USA USA ALPA-I.

The Adastra Gardens Basic School is situated at Windward Road, adjacent  to the Jamaica Private Power Co. Ltd.

In 1984, the Jamaican Airline Pilots’ Association adopted this school. This came out of the pilots’ recognition that they needed to become more involved in the uplift of our society and in particular a community close to us.

Our involvement with the school began with the upgrading of the physical structure and assistance was sought from other businesses.  Mr. Mike Chaionn of

Stresscon Ltd. provided and installed a new roof for a classroom, which replaced a badly .leaking one. The Jamaica Defence Force Engineering Unit assisted with the erection of a wall on the west side of the school to help prevent flooding during heavy rains. Other help was received from Shell Co. W.I. Ltd. with the rewiring of the building and from Jamaica Flour Mills with the school feeding programme. Mrs. Thalia Lyn of Island Grill donated a stove for the kitchen and Mr. Mark Myers; Managing Director of Restaurants of Jamaica gave an undertaking to treat the children at their Christmas party.

In order to sensitize the immediate community to our efforts, a meeting was held in August 1992 to which parents, teachers, residents of the community, and representatives of firms operating in the area were invited. The meeting was well received and a commitment was given by all present to support the efforts of the Jamaican Airline Pilots Association in improving the school.

The most urgent needs were identified and work began in earnest. Tasks completed that year included painting the buildings, replacing the kitchen cupboards, plumbing and electrical work and erection of an incinerator. A chain link fence was installed and landscaping done, thanks to the kind assistance of West Indies Home Contractors (WIHCON) who provided the topsoil and heavy equipment. A sprinkler system was also added to keep the grass green.

The community expressed their pleasure and thanks for the positive changes that have taken place over the years, and the school community in particular has expressed gratitude for the improvements. The Jamaican Airline Pilots Association remains committed to the continued development of the Adastra Gardens Basic School.

Up to the 1990’s members of the Association held positions on the school board to ensure a closer bond. In December of each year, the children and staff are treated by the Association with a fun day, loot bag and a meal.

Regular field trips were also arranged to expose the children to places and activities outside of their community and some parents would accompany the staff and pupils on these trips.

Other projects fulfilled over the years included paving the driveway and upgrading and repairs to the bathrooms and kitchen.