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| Graduating Class 2004 of the Combermere Primary School |
Charlestown Nevis (July 8, 2004) Although the school had several setbacks during the academic year 2003/2004, the Principal of the school, Mrs. Ermileta Elliott said that one of their main objectives was accomplished.
In presenting a comprehensive school report at the annual graduation and prize giving ceremony, Elliott noted that the children’s level of reading was improved saying, “we continue to stress that our goal here is that each student should be able to read fluently by the time they leave grade 2.”
She told the gathering that included Junior Minister of Education, the Hon Livingston Herbert, Minister of Health and area representative, the Hon Jean Harris, Senator, the Hon Lynell Nolan, Education Officials, parents and well wishers of the graduants, “the importance of learning notes and also proofreading their work had to be continuously emphasize to our children.”
The ceremony, which was held earlier this week, saw 16 students graduating to the secondary level, of whom 11 are boys and 5 are girls. Felecia France emerged winner at the test of standard followed by Kristoff Pemberton. Eight of the students will be entering the first and second streams, while eight will be entering the third and fourth streams.
The principal, while addressing the parents in the audience, especially those of the graduants, said, “Amidst your busy schedules, stipulate the importance of reviewing work each night, whether or not you are home. Spend quality time with your children while they are young, it can prove to be fruitful.”
“Continue to raise the self-esteem of the children by using words of encouragement,” the principal added. “This cannot be over emphasized. It must be seven years of unwavering support for our children. Parents, I especially want all of you to pay more attention to the boys.”
Past student of the school and present manager of the Bank of Nova Scotia, Nevis Branch, Mr. Greg Phillip, gave the feature address. He told the students to take their education seriously by setting goals, develop a love for reading and most of all get to know who they are. He also told them that knowing God was important and that God made all things possible.
Felecia France, in presenting the valedictory speech, thanked all on behalf of the graduating class of 2004, who made their journey a success. She also noted that the road was not a smooth journey. “We faced many challenges, which tested our strength of character, but to God be the glory for great things he has done.”
According to France, “Aspiring is like climbing a ladder; as you get to the top of one step, you find yourself at the bottom of another. Aspiring for the best means evading the dangers of society, living clean and healthy and making a positive difference in the world.”
On behalf of the students, France said, “We want to ask the parents and the community to continue supporting the teachers and the school. We ask the teachers to continue giving their best. We implore the students to obey their teachers and learn as much as they can. A good education makes you independent and worthy.”
Mrs. Althea Jones former teacher of the school did the presentation of certificates and prizes while Mrs. Lornette Manners gave brief remarks on behalf of the education department. Mr. Wakely Daniel chaired the ceremony
