MATTHEW FARLEY WAS my friend. Matthew Farley was an inspirational and enthusiastic leader for his students. Matthew Farley was a supportive affirmer of quality teachers. Matthew Farley was an outstanding ambassador for the teaching profession and education in general.
I first met this inimitable colleague in the late eighties. There were competitive and challenging circumstances which covered us with a cloud of negativity. But, as true professionals, he, his good friend Stephen Blanchard and I worked through those difficulties to genuine friendship.
For the next 20-plus years my bond with Matthew Farley grew stronger and stronger. This was based on two defining traits that we accepted as common ground. We shared a deep passion for our profession and its importance for a high quality of life in our progressive nation.
Additionally, this ethically strong individual was firm in his respect for regulations and high standards. One day he would punish many for specific breaches then the next day be the enthusiastically involved supporter running up and down the field or the court motivating the children of his beloved Graydon Sealy.
What a man! He was able to strike the necessary balance between strong and character-building action with the adequate coating of the soft skills. He loved, he respected and he encouraged his students and colleagues to be as good as they could possibly be. Kudos to him.
He led the thrust of introducing technology into the schools. He was unrestrained. If only we had more committed leaders like him, we would be seeing immense benefits from our national investment.
He saw technology as an actual teaching and learning tool and not confined to the easy PowerPoint use that it now seems to be condemned to.
It was our travels to New Orleans and San Antonio, Texas, that perked me the most. Notepad and pencil in hand, he never allowed a single idea to slip. If it could be used to help him as a school leader in Barbados, it would not be left unaddressed.
He was firm that there was nothing timid or bashful about leadership and he was prepared to put his ideas and his work out there to be assessed and even criticised. He sacrificed the potential friendships and insincere nice words in his quest for the betterment of all.
He appreciated and knew that “sacrifice is a disciplinary commitment necessary for maintaining self-respect, upholding personal integrity and achieving positive, identifiable goals”. I think most Barbadians have given him a very high passing grade in these areas.
He established The National Forum, not to seek publicity as some surmised, but to stimulate much necessary educational discussion. It was also used to initiate awards for teachers who had proven their worth and their commitment. Thanks for the leadership, my brother.
On a very personal note, it was well known that we walked on different sides of the social highway. He had a choice to be singular or plural and opted to be singular. As such, he turned his back on the spirits and chose instead to be led by the Spirit. As a result, I am convinced that he has made his calling and selection sure.
Matthew Farley was my biggest professional critic, never being afraid to tell me when he thought I was wrong, but he was also my strongest professional advisor, always quick with a suggestion on how to do things differently and better.
Barbados is that much poorer for his passing, and I will miss such a person in my life. Rest in peace, my brother from another mother.
Jeff Broomes is an experienced educator, principal and community organiser who also served as vice-president of the BCA and director of the WICB. Email: unclejeff2@hotmail.com