Amid a national teacher shortage, PCPS recruiters have been searching abroad and taking advantage of teacher exchange programs. Thus far, we’ve hired approximately 70 educators from countries such as the Philippines, Jamaica and Ghana. They’ve been a great addition to our schools, especially at Loughman Oaks Elementary. Loughman recently welcomed — really, truly welcomed — teachers Jodi Ann Dyce and Shayna Smith from Jamaica. The ladies were first staying in a rental property but recently found an apartment of their own. To help them get settled, Loughman employees gathered some donated furniture and other necessities, and spent Saturday moving Dyce and Smith into their new apartment. “It just made my day. Everybody was in tears, it was really nice,” Principal Wanda Aponte said. “These ladies are so humble and dedicated; they fit in perfectly with our school family. They’ve been magnificent.” Aponte said another Loughman employee has been driving the new teachers to and from work every day. “This is one of the things Loughman is very good at,” she said. “Until they get situated, we’re providing that support. That’s what we do.”

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