The school administration comprises the principal, and two vice principals and is supported by an administrative staff of nine.
Mrs. Esther Tyson, Principal
esthertyson@ardennehigh.com
Mrs. Esther Tyson attended the Chapelton Primary School in Clarendon, then Ardenne High School from 1967 – 1974. At Ardenne she was Prefect, Head Girl, and valedictorian. She was one of the lead singers in the School’s Choir under the directions of Noel Dexter.
From 1974-1977 she attended the University of the West Indies [Bachelor of Arts English Honours] and again in 1996 where she completed a Diploma in Education [Double Honours]. During the period January 2002 – 2004 she also attended The University of The West Indies where she did a Masters programme in Language Education with minor in Administration.
Her teaching career started at her Alma Mater- Ardenne High School where she taught English from 1979 – 1980. Since then she has taught at other institutions namely Manchester High School in Mandeville and St. Andrew High School for Girls in Kingston. During her tenure at St. Andrew High School for Girls she was Form Teacher, Senior Teacher, and Academic Representative on the School Board. She also trained the choir and debating club, was coordinator for the Current Events programme for the sixth formers, acted as Head of Department for the English Department, and was Supervisor for the six formers. From 1996 to 1999 she was Vice Principal. In January 2000 she came to Ardenne High School as Principal, a position that gives her great joy as she is able to contribute to her Alma Mater.
Esther Tyson describes herself as an avid vivacious reader who likes to read historical books, family drama and Religious materials. Her favourite authors include Belva Plain and PhillipYancy. She also enjoys singing. This dynamic lady has been a committed Christian since age 14. Her philosophy in life is not to make long term plans for life – but believes that God guides her step by step and leads her through prayer. She believes it is most important to believe in God and do what He tells us to do. This philosophy has influenced how she relates to people and the decisions she has taken.
Several persons have made a positive impact on her life. These include Mrs. Laura Beckford her form teacher in first form at Ardenne High, who showed care and concern for her. Mrs. Beckford’s daughter Joyce Kennedy also made a great impact on her life and her late friend Denver Keane, late wife of Pastor Keane also impacted significantly on her personal life.
Her best teachers were Ivy Mitchell who taught her English Language and Winston Roberts who taught her Biology. Her best subjects in school were English, Literature and History. Mrs. Tyson takes joy in the fact that Ardenne is developing and growing. She takes great pride in seeing a past student who is achieving personally and professionally. She states that the prospective Ardenne student should be one who wants a well rounded education – academically, spiritually and socially.
Mrs. Tyson is married to Rawle Tyson a man who she describes as being made of a special mould. He was shot and injured in 1997 – injuries which have left him paralyzed. He, however still has a positive approach to life and does not blame God for what has happened to him. She sees him as an inspiration to her and he is now an even more positive influence on people. Despite his disabilities he is still involved in many activities and does counseling, pastors a church and recently completed doctoral studies. The Tyson’s have three children: Mikaela, Johnothan and Sarah.
