School Days are Happy, Happy Days By Dr. Lois Jeremy-Greene
In life, we come across individuals who leave a profound impact, shaping not only our personal and professional lives but also our entire communities. Today, as we gather to bid a heartfelt farewell to my esteemed past principal, boss, and mentor, I take this opportunity to honor a visionary leader, a compassionate mentor, and a cherished friend.
This tribute serves as a reflection of the indelible mark that Dr. Austin Josiah has left behind and a celebration of his legacy as my mentor and friend.
I first met Dr. Austin Josiah, the principal of Bethesda School when I began my teaching career as a math and science teacher.
Within the first year, I was in awe of his leadership, and I knew that he would have an empowering impact on my professional journey as a teacher.
This tribute is an opportunity for me to acknowledge his exemplary leadership and unwavering vision.
Dr. Josiah was committed to the school community. He possessed a unique ability to inspire and motivate everyone he worked with toward achieving excellence.
Through his visionary guidance, he instilled a sense of purpose in every student and staff, reminding us to always aim high, embrace challenges, and work collectively towards a common goal.
He was passionate about educating every student, ensuring that educating the whole child extended beyond the textbooks. In addition to doing well in every subject, it was essential that every student know and understand local, regional, and international events.
I remember that during the Gulf War (1990-1991) when the USA and 38 other countries waged a military coalition against the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, Dr. Josiah was relentless in his efforts to ensure that every student took time to know and understand what, where, and why of this historical event.
His drive for constant improvement ignited a transformative journey in the school community and impacted countless lives, including students, teachers, and parents.
Dr. Josiah not only prioritized academic excellence but also devoted his entire life to empowering and celebrating students.
He recognized the importance of education in shaping future generations and worked tirelessly to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment.
Through different innovative programs and initiatives, he sought to cultivate the potential of every student, encouraging them to explore their passions and talents.
In 1990, when I wanted the school to participate in the Mr. And Miss Teenage Pageant, he did not hesitate to support my ambitions.
Although he was not a carnival enthusiast, he ensured that I had access to the students for practice and preparation. Kevin Potter and Sharon Grigg were the first two students from Bethesda School to participate in the Mr. And Miss Teenage pageant. Both students represented the school at its highest level.
Kevin’s talent was a dramatic portrayal of Mr. Josiah as a school leader, entitled, “School Days are Happy, Happy Days”. By the end of the show, Kevin was crowned Mr. Teenage 1990 with the best personality and aspirations and best-performing talent. Bethesda school had become the first primary/junior secondary school to win the Mr. Teenage title.
Dr. Josiah’s dedication to the holistic development of everyone served as a constant reminder of the impact that education can have on celebrating and empowering our students’ abilities, talents, and skills. Dr. Josiah was a disciplinarian who believed in the words of Proverbs 22:15, “Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, the rod of correction will drive it far from him.” Although he was never afraid to use the rod, he understood the difference between formal and informal discipline and when to use each.
He understood the role of values, rules, and consequences in a school system and how to address the underlying causes of discipline problems that occur both in and out of school.
He knew how to balance discipline and care, communicating expectations and interacting with students and parents. His disciplinary acts were always with unwavering compassion, support, and love.
He believed in the power of empathy and took time to understand the struggles and concerns of both students and staff.
He fostered a culture of openness, ensuring that everyone felt heard, valued, and supported. His innate ability to uplift spirits and offer guidance during difficult times provided comfort and reassurance to all, especially students.
His legacy as a compassionate and caring leader will continue to inspire me to extend a helping hand to others.
As I use this tribute to say goodbye to Dr. Austin Josiah, I embrace the profound impact that he had on my life, influencing my desire to learn to the highest level. When the achievement of my doctorate degree was announced, he was filled with great joy.
Within the last week of his life, he took time to speak with me, sharing his excitement and advising me on the next steps of my professional career. His leadership, vision, and dedication to education will forever be etched in my heart.
I will continue to carry forward the values and ideals he instilled in me, striving to make a positive difference in my life and the lives of those around me. Though I mourn his loss today, his memory will forever serve as a guiding light, uplifting and inspiring me as I continue his meaningful work as an educator and an advocate for students and teachers.
Today, I celebrate a remarkable life – a life that touched hearts, influenced minds, and left an undeniable legacy behind.
I am thankful for his life and all his words of wisdom and inspiration that he shared with me through the years.
May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his spirit continue to inspire us as we navigate the path ahead with reverence, gratitude, and a deep sense of commitment to his vision as a teacher, principal, educator, and mentor.
Forever in my heart.
Dr. Lois Jeremy-Greene
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