From Chiaira Bowers, RISE Foundation
For many students, the first day of school represents excitement, new opportunities, and a fresh start. However, for some children, the school year begins with uncertainty as they enter the classroom without the supplies, uniforms, or resources needed to feel prepared.
According to local educators, the impact goes far beyond missing pencils, notebooks, or a backpack. A lack of school essentials can affect a child’s confidence, participation, sense of belonging, and overall learning experience.
Through a recent survey conducted by RISE Foundation with educators, identified among the highest priority needs were school uniforms, school supplies and school shoes. With the rising cost of preparing a child for school, many families continue to face challenges providing their children with their school needs.
Natasha Richardson, Social Worker at Leonald Conner School, shared that students who return without proper resources may experience fear of being teased, feeling like they do not fit in with their peers, or feeling “of lesser worth.”
Richardson explained that the impact can be even greater in some situations, with students withdrawing socially or not wanting to attend school. “Some parents even keep their children at home if they cannot provide what is needed for school,” she said.
Diana Woods-Honore, Adjunct School Manager at Oranje School, explained that these challenges can also affect learning.
“Students may feel hesitant to participate in class activities, group projects, or school-related tasks,” Woods-Honore stated. “Some students may fall behind or struggle to complete assignments or even keep up with lessons.”
However, educators also highlighted the positive impact when students receive support.
“When students receive proper support, it can spark a powerful impact on both their confidence and academic performance,” Woods-Honore said. “It boosts motivation, encourages them to work harder, and transforms school into a place they want to be.”
Recognizing these needs, RISE Foundation continues its annual Back-to-School Drive to ensure students begin the academic year prepared, confident and supported.
For the 2026 Back-to-School Drive, RISE Foundation aims to support 100 students across four schools: Marie Genevieve de Weever Primary School, Oranje School, Ruby Labega Primary School, and Leonald Conner Primary School.
This year’s initiative focuses on providing uniform assistance, school shoes, backpacks, and school supplies. Additionally, RISE aims to provide classroom support to help teachers meet student needs throughout the year.
A child’s readiness for school should not depend only on their family’s circumstances. When the community contributes, it helps remove barriers before students enter the classroom.
RISE Foundation offers various sponsorship opportunities, allowing individuals, groups, and companies to support in a way that fits their budget. Sponsors can “adopt” a student by covering a complete back-to-school package or contribute toward individual areas of need such as uniforms, shoes, supplies, or classroom support.
Community members are also encouraged to donate items during RISE Foundation’s weekly summer collection drive events, held each Saturday at Super City, Carrefour, and Cost U Less until July 25.
To stay connected, partner with RISE Foundation, or support the Back-to-School Drive, contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., by phone/WhatsApp at +1 (721) 584-7473 or +1 (721) 523-8421, or follow us on Facebook (risesxm) and Instagram (rise.sxm).
Together, we can ensure more children walk into the new school year prepared, confident, and ready to rise.
