Under the theme “Gratitude is a Must”, the Morris Vanterpool Primary School graduated twenty-three students. The ceremony took place on Thursday, July 1st, at the St. Augustine’s Anglican Church in East End.
A prayer was said by Pastor David Christmas, the Anguilla National Song was played by Mr. Casey Richardson, and the school song entitled, “Never Say Fail” was sung by Tr. Sandra Liddie.
The Principal then gave her welcome remarks, while congratulating the graduands: “I would like to inform you that the staff had no part in creating this theme. I was entirely the idea of the graduands. As a principal, I am proud to realize that our eleven-year-olds are indeed cognizant of the importance of gratitude.
“Students, you have made me proud in that you have selected the theme especially in these trying times. Congratulations for all your accomplishments.”
Following the Principal’s address, Mrs. Jemima Romney gave a beautiful rendition of the song, “The Goodness of Good.” This was followed by the introduction of Mr. Omar Hodge, the Keynote Speaker.
Introducing Mr. Hodge was Deputy Principal, Ms. Estel Carter. She described him as a young entrepreneur who has developed a business idea, OLAPOPS, into fruition.
Mr. Hodge, focusing on the element of gratitude, took the podium to express his views, while motivating the graduands. “I acknowledge that I am thrilled to speak to the graduating class of 2021,” he stated. “I am indeed a proud graduate of the Morris Vanterpool Primary School. I will be forever grateful to the MVPS as a critical institution that helped to mold me and instill within me lifelong principles.
“The chosen theme, “Gratitude is a Must”, is most fitting for this ceremony as well as all other aspects of our lives. Often, people speak of others being ungrateful, but the truth is that we can all find ourselves being guilty of this trait. No matter what, let’s always be grateful. Indeed we need to be.”
The presentation of certificates and awards came next. Like all the other primary schools, numerous school-related essential items were donated by community-minded individuals and local companies. Noteworthy mention must be made of the fact that in this Covid-19 era, each graduand was presented with an essential laptop computer to provide convenience for online schooling.
The Valedictorian was Master Tajai Liddie, and the Salutatorian was another male, in the person of Master Marlon Halley. This is the only school that prided two males for these coveted positions.
During his speech, Master Liddie also stressed the importance of being grateful: “First and foremost, I would like to thank God, for without Him, none of this would be possible. One behalf of the Class of 2021, I would also like to thank our parents, teachers and other supporters for doing everything within their power to help us to get to this point,” he stated.
“From a personal standpoint, I was blessed with a close knit family and a support system which has guided and encouraged me. They have motivated me to set goals and work towards achieving them. For all this I would like to express my gratitude.”
A vibrant Vote of Thanks was heartily delivered by Master Marlon Halley, after which the graduates were introduced and presented by Teacher Hamawatie Narine.
Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
