It was a day packed with pride and the manifestation of big dreams as the Alwyn Allison Richardson Primary School (AARPS) held its 2025 Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, July 3rd 2025 at the Bethel Methodist Church under the fitting theme: “Dreamers – We Make It Happen.”
Chaired by Teacher Kyla Gumbs, the ceremony welcomed a warm audience that included parents, guardians, extended families, friends and supporters, along with notable dignitaries such as Hon. Minister of Health, Sports and Tourism, Mr. Cardigan Connor; Hon. Minister of Education Mrs. Shellya Rogers-Webster; Permanent Secretary for Education, Mrs. Bonnie Richardson-Lake; and Chief Education Officer, Mr. Bren Romney.
Teacher Trevis Rouse opened the proceedings with a heartfelt welcome and remarks that set the tone for the afternoon’s celebration. Speaking directly to the Class of 2025, he added, “You’ve worked hard, overcome so many challenges, and grown in more ways than you may even realise… You are ready, and we’re all so proud of the young individuals you’ve become.”
The keynote address came from none other than AARPS alumna and now teacher at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, Ms. Taijah Leveret Reid, whose speech stitched together memories, humour, and motivation with the insight of someone who had truly come full circle.
Ms. Leveret Reid, once valedictorian of the school’s 2014 graduating class, admitted she was nervous to stand at the podium of her alma mater at that time, but she was reassured that not having it all figured out right now is perfectly fine. “The theme “dreamers making things happen,” she said, “was not just aspirational – it was lived truth. This small, warm-hearted school taught me how to dream… but more importantly, it taught me how to do,” she said.
Her speech also poked fun at having her dreams “crushed” after building houses out of her exercise books and being benched for an entire volleyball season. “But, she noted, “dreamers are not those who never fall – they are the ones who keep getting back up, who keep imagining new possibilities and daring to pursue them.”
As the students prepare for life at the ALHCS come September, Ms. Leveret Reid offered wise and timely advice. “High school will have bigger classrooms, multiple teachers, new subjects and new faces… but you already have everything you need to succeed,” she assured the graduands.
Then came the ceremony’s highlight – the presentation of certificates and special awards by school principal Teacher Electra Buddle. The moment was met with proud cheers and applause. These awards recognised achievements in academics, sports and personal growth, highlighting the wide talents of the graduating class.
The students then took to the stage in coordinated step for a dance performance to Jungkook’s “Dreamer” – a vibrant musical tribute to the very spirit that defined their send-off.
Another highlight included Mr. Elliot Gumbs delivering a fitting tribute to the graduate’s potential via a saxophone performance of “A Million Dreams.”
Valedictorian Gabriel Leveret delivered a moving speech that chronicled his class’s journey from wild kindergarteners to resilient young scholars. “Our journey is one filled with challenges and triumphs,” he began, listing Hurricane Irma, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the tough transition to online learning as just a few of the obstacles they had to face. “It was tough, but we made it through.”
Gabriel also touched on the laughter, chaos and energy that defined their later years, as well as the academic pressures of CPEA projects and exams. But above all, he focused on the dreams that still lie ahead.
Quoting Eleanor Roosevelt, Gabriel reminded his classmates: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” He even invoked the creator of the Monopoly board game to drive home the point that setbacks are not the end. “We’re not just children. We’re game changers. We’re dreamers and we can make things happen,” he said with conviction. “Your destiny begins with your dreams. So dream big and aim for the moon. And if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
Delivering the Vote of Thanks, Salutatorian Liam Webster extended deep gratitude on behalf of the graduating class to their teachers, families, keynote speaker and sponsors. His words were a reminder that success is never achieved alone – it’s the product of many hands and hearts invested in young minds.
The ceremony closed with Reverend Wilmoth Hodge’s prayer and blessing over the 19 students as they stepped boldly into their next chapter. As the graduates stood tall on stage, they turned their tassels to a crescendo of cheers, applause and proud smiles.
The AARPS Class of 2025 exited the church – ready and willing to dare to dream and make those dreams come true.
Article by Janissa Fleming
