Whenever, Thea May steps into the classroom, she introduces a new concept or a digital tool, and her students become excited and filled with purpose.

“There is something magical about watching students understand how technology works and use it creatively. ICT evokes a sense of innovation, progress, and empowerment. ICT is more than a subject; it is a gateway to the future,” May said.

May is a teacher of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at the Foga Road High School in Clarendon. She utilises real world examples, project-based learning, gamification and collaborative activities to make ICT come alive.

“I encourage students to explore their interests whether it’s coding, graphic design or teaching Information Technology. Their reactions are always positive; many of them say my classes are the highlight of their school day. I have seen shy students become confident, and disinterested students develop a newfound love for the subject because they feel seen, supported, and engaged,” she said. 

Interestingly, May did not always envision herself as a teacher. Her love for technology began at Edwin Allen High School where she was a student for seven years.

 “I did not own a computer until I was 16 years old. During high school, I was inspired by one of the best IT teachers, Miss Shelly-Ann Gilzene, whose engaging and inclusive teaching style helped me fall in love with the subject. Over time, my curiosity grew into a deeper interest in ICT, and I realised that combining my love for technology with my passion for helping others made teaching the perfect fit,” May said.

May is the eldest of three children of her mother, Natoya Henry, and father, Patrick May. She grew up with her grandmother, Estella Pearson, for most of her life, as her parents were always working to provide for her and her younger siblings.

“Coming from a humble background, I was determined from an early age to make my parents proud, especially since they didn’t have the opportunity to attend high school or university,” May said.

Currently, she teaches areas within ICT including basic computer literacy, productivity tools (like Word, Excel, PowerPoint), digital citizenship, and simple coding. “I chose these areas because they build foundational digital skills that are essential in today’s world. Each area allows room for creativity and problem-solving, which are important skills for students to develop,” May said.

In order to improve her overall ICT skills, May became involved in the BOOST Programme through the National Commercial Bank Foundation. She was awarded a tertiary grant to help with her studies at the University of Technology.

“I was selected in my final year of university to become part of the BOOST programme and saw it as a great opportunity to grow professionally and enhance my students’ learning experience. So far, it has been an enriching journey. The training, resources, and networking opportunities have empowered me to bring more dynamic and student-centred strategies into my teaching,” May said.

Through her affiliation with the BOOST Programme and while she continues to enhance her teaching capabilities, she was recently named as one of the top ten ICT teachers recognised by the FLOW Foundation.

“This honour affirmed the work I have put into creating an engaging and inclusive ICT environment. Beyond that, I have had students win local competitions, build their own websites, assist with school tech initiatives, and show real growth in confidence and ability. My success is reflected in the success and enthusiasm of my students,” May said.

“Awards like this motivate us to keep innovating and improving. They also shine a light on the importance of ICT in shaping Jamaica’s future,” she added.