The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Education Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

For Quintino Barr, Kamall Forbes and Macken Louis, success in the 2026 Bahamas Junior Certificate examinations is more than a collection of grades — it is evidence of what students who are blind or visually impaired can accomplish when high expectations are matched with opportunity, support and determination.

The three students of the Erin H Gilmour School for the Blind and Visually Impaired recorded notable results in Mathematics and Health Science, marking another encouraging milestone in the school’s continued academic progress.

In Mathematics, Quintino and Kamall each earned an A, while Macken earned a B. In Health Science, Kamall earned a B, while Quintino and Macken each received a C.

For the school community, the results represent more than academic achievement. They reflect the students’ preparation, perseverance and willingness to meet the expectations set for them.

Principal Kevin Cartwright congratulated the students, saying their performance demonstrates what can happen when students are supported by dedicated teachers and encouraged to believe in their own potential.

“To our students: stand tall and be proud,” said Mr Cartwright.

“You have demonstrated that with preparation, determination, excellent teaching and belief in yourselves, there are no limits to what you can achieve.”

He also praised Mathematics teacher Claudia Bain and Science teacher Byron Jones for their commitment to preparing the students for the national examinations.

“Your investment in our students has produced results of which the entire Erin H Gilmour School community can be proud,” said Mr Cartwright.

“Thank you for believing in them, challenging them and helping them to reach for excellence.”

The students’ accomplishments come as Erin H Gilmour continues to strengthen a culture built around high expectations, inclusion and continuous improvement.

Mr Cartwright knows firsthand the importance of opportunity and perseverance.

Born with glaucoma, he lost his sight completely at the age of eight. He later earned his undergraduate degree at West Virginia State University and a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning from the University of Ottawa in Canada.

After returning to The Bahamas, he dedicated his career to educating children who are blind and visually impaired. At Erin H Gilmour, he taught Language Arts, Braille and assistive technology before moving into school leadership.

A Lyford Cay Foundations scholar, Mr Cartwright was appointed Acting Principal in 2023, becoming the first blind person to lead a school in The Bahamas. His appointment as Principal was made substantive by the Public Service Commission in 2025.

His journey from student to educator, classroom teacher and school leader provides students at Erin H Gilmour with a powerful example of what education, perseverance and opportunity can make possible.

Mr Cartwright said his Christian faith remains central to his life and leadership, guiding his commitment to service and his belief that his opportunities and responsibilities should be used to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Beyond his work as an educator and principal, Mr Cartwright is an author, poet, music creator and disability advocate. He has also developed a strong interest in coding, computer programming, website development and artificial intelligence, particularly in how technology can improve accessibility, independence and educational opportunities.

The accomplishments of Quintino, Kamall and Macken are therefore part of a larger vision for Erin H Gilmour — one in which students are not defined by their disabilities but encouraged and equipped to reach their full potential.

“These results represent the direction in which Erin H Gilmour School is moving — a school where disability does not determine potential and where our students are expected, encouraged and equipped to achieve,” said Mr Cartwright.

The school also acknowledged the parents and guardians, teachers, staff members and supporters whose encouragement, sacrifices and commitment helped the students reach this point.

For Quintino, Kamall and Macken, the 2026 BJC results are a significant academic accomplishment. For Erin H Gilmour, they are also a reminder of the possibilities that emerge when students are given the tools, support and confidence to succeed.

“This is the Erin H Gilmour School of today — a school moving forward through vision, teamwork, accountability and an unwavering belief in what our students can achieve,” said Mr Cartwright.

“The progress is visible, the momentum is real, and our best chapters are still ahead.”