By: St. Clair ‘Sazam’ Hull
Nevispages.com
(CHARLESTOWN NEVIS)- On the afternoon of Tuesday 8th July 2014, all roads led to the Shiloh Baptist Church located in Ramsbury, Charlestown, for the Graduation ceremony for the Nevis Academy.
Under its theme, ‘Dare to Dream- Facing the Challenges embracing the future’ the school said farewell to six students who would be entering the Secondary School system in September.
The ceremony began with the invocation by Father Ernie Berthlete which was followed by the National Anthem.
The opening remarks were delivered by Chairperson Ms. Isabele Byron. She told those in attendance that she pleased to be in such a magnificent edifice to share such a special day with the graduates. She assured the students that there was nothing wrong with dreaming big as long as one maintains a hunger for excellence while remaining committed and dedicated to one’s dreams.
In delivering the school’s annual report, Head Teacher, Mrs. Lucia Wilkinson said the school has always aimed to provide its pupils with an environment in which they are motivated in all areas of the curriculum. The principal also acknowledged the assistance of various businesses and individuals who continue to provide valuable support to the school.
Mrs. Wilkinson also spoke in appreciation of the sterling contribution of her teaching staff. “I would like to say Thank You to our teachers for the hard work, patience, love and dedication that you have displayed over the years. Without you, these children could not have made it this far. You have given them a good foundation on which to build their future”.
Mr. Ron Daniel gave the feature address. He reminded the students that even though they had the luxury of achieving automatic entry into high school they still needed to develop a hunger for excellence and a thirst to learn. Mr. Daniel went on to encourage the students to dream big because the island of Nevis needs big dreamers. He also cautioned them not to get complacent in secondary school because the work will become harder as they progress. He continued, “In primary school you are only doing four subjects but in secondary school you may chose to do ten subjects so that will mean studying everyday and keeping away from the cell phone for hours”. In conclusion Mr. Daniel wished the students every success.
The Valedictory Speech was made by Andre Morton. He noted that during his time at the school, even though the teachers were tough and strict, they were also fun loving and humorous. Andre also spoke about his classmates, who never failed to entertain him on a daily basis and he claimed that he will never forget them. He also praised his parents for the guidance they have given him thus far and who on numerous occasions, helped him diligently with his homework. In closing the valedictorian claimed that there are countless opportunities in existence for him and his classmates and they need to take full advantage of them.
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Morton distributed the gifts and certificates while students Odecia and Jonathan gave the vote of thanks.
