For years, Antoine Duncombe stood in front of classrooms teaching students. But behind the lessons, the preparation and the dedication was another reality familiar to many educators— the struggle to feel valued in a profession built on sacrifice.
Last month, Duncombe opened a national conversation when he spoke publicly in mainstream media and on social media about the financial challenges facing teachers in the Bahamas.
His message was a person’s salary should reflect their skills, qualifications, experience and contribution.
“Teachers in the Bahamas are expected to shape the nation’s future, yet far too many are trying to survive on salaries that simply do not match the demands or responsibilities of the profession,” he wrote to social media.
His words resonated with educators across the country.
Many shared stories of leaving the education system for better opportunities. Others spoke about the difficulty of balancing a passion for teaching with the reality of rising living costs and financial responsibilities.
Duncombe, an educator with more than 11 years of experience, was honest about his own journey.
As a male educator, he said the current salary structure made it increasingly difficult to build the kind of future many professionals aspire to have.
He even shared his resume publicly, seeking opportunities that reflected what he believed his experience and qualifications were worth.
The response was overwhelming. Duncombe said he received numerous offers after sharing his resume.
But in the end, he remains in education. He is returning to the school environment in a new role — as a Senior Master for the 2026 school term, he announced in a social media post.
Duncombe was among several educators who officially received their letters of promotion, marking the start of a new chapter in their careers ahead of the 2026 school year.
Following news of his appointment, Duncombe shared a message of confidence.
“I don’t compete for space, I own mine,” he wrote. “I walk into every room with confidence, not arrogance. I know who I am, what I bring, and the value I carry.”
His message continued: “Never dim your light to make someone else shine brighter. Take your seat. Use your voice. Own your space.”
“Promotion comes from God! No other words,” he said.