On Tuesday 24th June 2014, seven children walked down the red carpet at the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School.The Vivien Vanterpool Boys’ Drum Band heralded their entrance and exit. Each graduate’s entrance was preceded by a video presentation in which career choices were stated and included politician, businessman, professional cricketer, teacher and pediatrician.
The graduation ceremony was chaired by Mr. Winston Duncan, the school’s Link Officer. There was a moment of silence in honour of the late Mr. Vivien Arthwin Vanterpool, the school’s first principal. A slideshow was also presented featuring the work of Mr. Vanterpool.
Brief remarks were presented by Ms. Marcia Brooks, Deputy Principal. She stressed the need for a strong alliance among parents, teachers and graduates and stated that it is only through a collaborative effort that the greatness that each child possesses will emerge. She further stated that it takes dedication and hard work on the part of all stakeholders for students to achieve their desired goals.
Mr. Vince Webster, a former pupil of the school, gave the feature address on the theme: ‘Destined for Greatness’. He highlighted Mr. Ben Carson who went from humble beginnings to become a great neurosurgeon. Mr. Webster further impressed upon the graduates that they must rise above their challenges and see the greatness that is in them waiting to be unleashed.
Mr. Christopher Baijnauth, the 2014 valedictorian, congratulated his classmates and encouraged them to take the next step in their academic journey seriously. He took the opportunity to reflect on his days as a student at the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School, outlined various learning experiences he and other students had (at the school), and assured teachers that they are better persons because of them. Ms. Olivia Fayet is the 2014 Salutatorian.
The Young Dancers, under the direction of Mrs. Cheris Webster, added flavor to the ceremony as they danced to the music of ‘Joyful, Joyful’. The choir reminded the graduates that, ‘There Is A Star In each Of Us’, a song written especially for the school by Mrs. Patricia Adams.
There were many awards presented during the ceremony. Parents and community partners were presented with plaques for their continuous generous contributions to the school. Some very special awards, namely the The Teacher Kendra Brookes Memorial Awards, were presented for outstanding performances in Creative Writing and Performing Arts. This has been the third year for these awards.
The graduates experienced a week of activities which included a church service, a bonfire, sleepover at Anancaona Boutique Hotel, and movie night in St. Martin.
The Principal, Staff and Parents of the Class of 2014 would like to express sincere gratitude to the many persons who assisted in any way to the success of the 2014 graduation ceremony.
– Contributed
