Soon-retiring Anguillian educator, Ms. Veda Harigan, has been recognised and awarded for her contribution to the development of early childhood education.
She was singled out for recognition at the start of Early Childhood Month on March 1 by the Organisation for Early Childhood Education. She was invited to the podium at the Teachers’ Resource Centre by Mrs.Hazell Brooks, Principal of St. Mary’s Pre-School.
Mrs. Brooks observed that Ms. Harrigan had made a significant contribution to the development of early childhood education over the years. She said: “Ms.Harrigan taught infant, now kindergarten, children for many years. In 1982 she, along with other infant and pre-school teachers, developed an Infant Teachers’ Handbook. In 1983, in response to a request made by the Anglican Church, she was seconded to St. Mary’s Pre-School for a year to assist with its establishment.
“Upon her return to primary school, Ms.Harrigan continued to teach at the lower end of the classrooms. In 2006, she returned to early childhood education to continue her contribution, but this time in a different capacity: Education Officer Primary/Pre-primary.
“I worked with Teacher Veda during her short stint at St. Mary’s Pre-school and I must say she loved working with the pre-schoolers…Today, it is fitting for us – the members of the Organisation for Early Childhood Education – to acknowledge and thank Ms.Veda Harrigan for her contribution before she retires later this year.”
In accepting a plaque, Ms.Harrigan, who struggled to control her emotions, said it would be unnatural for her not to be touched by the evidence of goodwill. “I am proud to be the recipient of this plaque and I accept it with gratitude and a deep sense of humility,” she said, to a round of applause. “I have done nothing more than serve my island at my best. I shall continue to serve in any way as long as I am able.
“During my forty-years’ tenure in education, I have had the good fortune of teaching from pre-school to grade six, of being the Principal of all the schools on the island except Morris Vanterpool Primary School. There must be something binding in being a teacher.
“I have recognised that every child should be given the best shot at life, equipping him or her with the skills that a 21st century education demands – giving them a chance to go as far as their hard work and potential will take them. If we look at the world and or own country, we would realise that we need to invest even more in our children.”
