Joycelyn Liburd Primary School Graduation 2015
(CHARLESTOWN NEVIS)-On the afternoon of Wednesday, July 1, 2015 the Joycelyn Liburd Primary School conducted its annual graduation and prize giving ceremony at the St. George’s Anglican Church, Gingerland. The event was held under the esteemed patronage of Mr. & Mrs. Roger Fyfield.
Under its Theme “The Best Preparation for Tomorrow is the Right Use of Today” the school bid goodbye to thirty three (33) promising students.
The ceremony began with the Invocation by Rev Cannon Dr. Alston Percival. This was followed by the National Anthem.
Chairperson of the ceremony, Mr. Devon Liburd gave the opening remarks. He noted that the success that was being celebrated was owed to all who played their particular roles in the lives of the children. Mr. Liburd indicated that the theme chosen for the event, spoke not only of the students who were graduating, but also to those who molded them. He also indicated that the successes with our children today will determine the level of comfort we enjoy with them tomorrow and the level of achievements the children themselves gain in the future.
Principal of the institution, Ms. Barbara Hendrickson, delivered the annual report. She stated that the school has always aimed to maintain excellence, and the past year has been one of success. She made mention of the school’s recent success, at the Golf Insurance Primary School Championship where they were victorious. Ms. Hendrickson pointed out, that the strides the school has made over the year would not have been possible without the dedication and sacrifice of the staff. She continued, “Nothing could have been accomplished without the hard work and dedication of the members of the school”. She also congratulated the students on their big day and wished them all the best at the other level.
Past student of the school, Ms. Shemica Maloney, gave feature address. She congratulated the students on what they have achieved, noting that it is just the start of bigger things to come. She noted that throughout a person’s life, many significant changes may occur and it is commonly accepted that preparing for the future is vastly important to cope with these changes. She told the students, that they will inevitably experience the highs and lows of life, but the most important thing is they have already taken the first step, to build a more promising future. She continued, “Every class taken, every comprehension written, every friendship created and every tear you shed have already prepared you to adapt to the changes and challenges of tomorrow”.
Ms. Maloney also explained to the graduating class that living in a world of technological advancement requires education and social skills. Therefore, preparation is a continuous element that can be achieved in various ways. She told the graduates, that it is extremely important to create a roadmap as they go along life’s journey, because a map is a useful tool. However, she warned the students that maps are only helpful, if they are cognizant of their destination. She told them once they were aware of where they want to end up; it is much easier to get there. In conclusion, she said to the students that they must learn from the past, live in the present and prepare for the future.
The valedictory speech was given by Destiny Lowe. She told those gathered, that the day was indeed special and momentous for them the students, but it was equally special for those who spent time with them to ensure they were successful. She noted that the completion of primary school, has given them a chance to reflect and to feel satisfy with their accomplishments.
The school’s top student also noted, that that their parents are proud of them and it was the perfect time to hug them, thank them and to ask them for money. She indicated that she still has vivid memories of her first day in Kindergarten, and their graduation was just a reminder that time keeps going forward and so shall they. In closing, she asked God to keep on blessing them as they move on to the next level.
The presentation of certificates and prizes were done by Mr. Roger Fyfield and his wife, while the vote of thanks was done by mother of the Valedictorian Mrs. Shevonne Lowe.