On May 1, 2025, Mr. Okelo Francis was officially appointed as the new Principal of the Alpha Primary School. Mr. Francis has been serving as the school’s Acting Principal since the passing of former Principal, Yvette Sammuels in March, 2024.
Mr. Francis received a Diploma in Education (Dip. Ed.) with a focus on Primary Education from St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College in 2003 and, following this, worked as a teacher for over 5 years at the Iris Gelly Primary School. Immediately thereafter, he took up a role teaching at Alpha Primary in 2005 and has faithfully served the Mercy school ever since.
During this time at Alpha, he forged a close working relationship with Ms. Samuels who continuously encouraged him to embark on various opportunities for professional development. The potential she saw in him was fully realized as while teaching, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computing with Management Studies as well as a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management – both from the University of Technology, Jamaica. Furthermore, Mr. Francis eventually assumed the position of Vice Principal for Alpha Primary School; a role in which he served with drive and dedication.
Since Ms. Samuel’s passing, Mr. Francis has done a wonderful job steering the school community through such a heartbreaking time of mourning while inspiring hope for the school’s direction going forward. In the words of Rachel Matthews (Board Chair, Alpha Primary School), “Mr. Francis brings to this role a deep commitment to the growth and development of our students, staff, and the wider school community. His leadership experience and dedication to education make him well-suited to guide our school through its next phase of progress. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Francis and look forward to working together to continue advancing the vision and mission of our Mercy school.”
