The ever-developing Central Christian School, at Rey Hill, has added a new dimension to its educational work in the community, putting it at another level with the primary schools in the public sector.
The privately-run school, an arm of the Central Baptist Church, now has a brand new computer lab – a separate building erected for that purpose – housing some twenty laptops.
The attractive addition was opened on Monday, February 1, and the first agenda item was a prayer by retired Minister and Founder of the Church and School, Pastor Cecil Richardson. This was followed by the cutting of the ribbon by Grade 6 student, Xanaeya Harrigan-Smith.
Pastor Richardson’s successor, Pastor Dwayne Adams, spoke about the importance of the new provision. “This computer lab represents a milestone for Central Christian School. With this, we take one more step into the 21st century and 21st century education,” he stated. “It has been a long time coming and our students are now able to compete on a more level playing field with their peers in other schools. I want to thank the Parent Teachers Association and the parents for honestly expressing this need at our school and for their patience as we constructed it over the past several months. I want to thank Mr. Charlie Connor, the Principal, for his insight and vision, effort and leadership, in guiding the staff and the students.”
Pastor Adams, who teaches Information Technology at the Abena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, also thanked a number of other persons particularly Mr. Dwayne Smith, for overseeing the construction of the computer lab; and Ms. Natalie Lake who was instrumental in the provision of four of the laptop computers as well as projectors. Pastor Adams was especially thankful to God for the availability of the funds to construct the building. He called on the teachers and students to put the facility to its fullest use.
Mr. Smith, described as a pillar in the church and the school, also addressed the gathering. He joined in expressing thanks to all persons who worked with him to make the compu
ter lab a reality.
Mr. Charlie Connor, the recently-appointed Principal, said it was “a very proud moment for the School Board, the staff, parents and students.” He noted that there was a curriculum programme and an annual test in the other primary schools, and promised to ensure that the students at the Central Christian School are included in that arrangement.
Mr. Connor, now retired from the Anguilla Public Service, has a long career in education. His last appointment was Education Officer for Professional Development in the Department of Education.
