St. Mary’s pre-school hosted its 29th annual graduation ceremony on Wednesday 27th June at the Rodney McArthur Rey Auditorium. A total of 65 graduates were escorted to their seats on stage, by their parents, where they sat facing the crowded auditorium. The chairperson for the ceremony, Mr. Arnie Hodge, welcomed on to the stage graduands Candisha Carty and Kaidon Brooks who delivered the welcome and national song respectively.
The annual school report was made by principal Mrs. Hazel Brooks. She highlighted the achievements of the school during the past year, noting that the children participated in fire prevention, personal hygiene and storytelling activities. The teachers also attended three workshops on phonological awareness, professional development, influenza and cholera. The sessions were organised by the Education Department and the Health Authority of Anguilla respectively.
Mrs. Brooks expressed her gratitude to Government and the various businesses and private individuals that provided funding and sponsorships throughout the year. She extended congratulations to the graduates and urged their parents to support them in primary school and at home and also to train them in biblical principles.
Delivering the feature address was past student of the school, Ms. Kristy Richardson. Ms. Richardson encouraged the parents to be positive role models for their children and not to assign their responsibilities to the media such as the television. Continuing, she emphasized that children learn what they live and that the environment in which they are raised will have a direct impact upon their lives.
The distribution of awards to the 40 boys and 25 girls was conducted by Tr. Keturah, Mr. Lynrod Brooks and Mr. Kevin Hawley. Following other presentations and recitals, the vote of thanks was delivered by graduating student, Keante Brooks.
(Article and Photos by Arthur D. Ward)
