By:St. Clair Sazam Hull
Nevispages.com
(CHARLESTOWN NEVIS)-The Maude Crosse Preparatory School conducted its annual graduation and prize giving ceremony on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at the Shiloh Baptsist Church in Ramsbury.
Under its theme, ‘Bloom where you are planted,’ the school celebrated another successful year in various forms from academics to sports.
The event was hosted under the esteemed patronage of Mr. and Mrs. Berley Walwyn who are the parents of the island’s top student, Alexa Liburd-Walwyn.
The ceremony began with the Invocation by Christopher Archibald. This was followed by the National Anthem which was done by the Pre- Schoolers.
Chairperson of the ceremony, Mrs. Shirley Russell gave the opening remarks. She told the gathering, that the school holds a very special place in her heart because she was once a teacher at the learning institution. Mrs. Russell pointed out, that whenever she is asked the question, what is the best school to send a child, without hesitation she always says Prep School. She also noted that she has had a very difficult time adjusting to the name Maude Crosse Preparatory, because the name Charlestown Prep is always on her mind.
Principal of the school, Ms. Cherry-Anne Walwyn, gave the annual report. She stated that the school is like a relay where one passes the baton onto another. She said that she was extremely proud of what the school had accomplished for the past year, especially since they have now produced the best student on the island for three consecutive years. The Principal pointed out, that the staff at the school has worked efficiently and diligently and because of that, goals that were set were ably achieved. Ms. Walwyn indicated that Ms. Sunne Collins, who currently teaches grade 6, should be highly applauded and commended. She noted that even in the face of harsh criticism, she has managed to produce great results.
Ms. Michelle Slack, who is a former student of the school, gave the feature address. She pointed out, that she was extremely honored to have been chosen by the staff and the school to speak at their graduation. She noted that Mrs. Russell taught her at the school, and up until this very day she still addresses her as ‘Mrs. Russell’. Ms. Slack told the graduates, that each one of them is a flower waiting to bloom. She noted that they were all born with special abilities, and it falls entirely to them what they are going to do with those abilities.
Ms. Slack also encouraged the graduates to listen attentively to their teachers when they go on to the next level. She indicated to them, that certain things will be quite challenging and they must not be afraid to ask questions to get a better understanding. She noted that in order to be bloom and succeed one must be able to get a clear comprehension of what is being taught. In closing, she pointed out to the students, like so many more who have made the school and others proud, they must also aspire to do likewise as they move ahead.
The valedictory speech was given by Alexa Liburd-Walwyn. Alexa was the best student on the island of Nevis. She attained a passmark of 90.2%, for the just concluded Test of Standards. She told those in attendance, that it was a very special day in her life as well as the school. She pointed out, that her achievement was not for her alone but for the school and her fellow graduates. The Valedictorian noted that none of it would have been possible, if the time and effort weren’t inserted by the tutors. She also indicated, that a number of persons have played great roles in her life especially her mother.
Alexa said that her mother accompanied her to school every morning, until she finally started working at the institution. She also spoke highly about her brother, who helped her continuously particularly with Mathematics. She noted that her karate teacher Mr. Maynard and her Sunday school teacher taught her the importance of being punctual. In conclusion, Alexa noted that the journey at the school was quite an enjoyable one, and the school will still see her as often as if she is still attending.
The presentation of certificates and awards were done by the patrons Mr. and Mrs. Berley Walwyn.
The vote of thanks was given by Mrs. Nadine Caines.
