Despite the inclement weather conditions, there was a crowded auditorium at the Morris Vanterpool Primary School on Friday, June 25, when 23 sixth grade students graduated after seven years of schooling.

Graduating Class of 2010

The graduation ceremony, which had as its theme, “We are the World, We are the Future,” and boasted the school’s motto, “Never say Fail,” was ably chaired by Vanburn Brooks, a past student, now an Architect. The Graduating Class of 2010 was presented by the only male teacher at the school, Leonard Telemaque, who proudly sat with the students who will be continuing their education at Campus B at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School.

The Principal of the Morris Vanterpool School, Mrs. Celestine John, welcomed the large audience comprising parents and other members of the East End community. She introduced both Mr. Brooks as the Chairman of the programme and the Feature Speaker, Dr. Reva Hobson-Richardson, daughter of Richard and Angela Hobson, who left the school 30 years ago and who, having furthered her education over the years, now serves as a Physician in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

Presentation by PC Carbon to Jasmin Ryan

Dr. Hobson-Richardson assured the graduating students that the knowledge they gained was a precious gift which would never leave them.

She advised them that, as they proceeded through life, they should remember the “Cs”, not the grades they achieved in exams, but their choices, confidence and company. “Next school year, changes will come in form of a new environment, lifestyles and schedules,” she told the students. “You cannot hide from these changes; they always come along with the decisions that you made. The happiest people do not fear changes. You should not only make the best of your changes, but the best of your life. Whatever life brings to you, the future is what you made of it. Your success depends on what choices you make; how confident you are and what company you keep.”

Dr. Hobson-R'dson

The Valedictory Speech was delivered by Arielle Gaskin, daughter of Sergeant Annette Duncan of the Royal Anguilla Police Force. Arielle, who won various awards, as one of the outstanding students, challenged her fellow students to work hard and to remain focused in order to succeed academically. She was grateful to her teachers for their guidance and imparting of knowledge over the years.

The presentation of certificates was done by Teacher Telemaque assisted by Yvonne Duncan.

Arielle Gaskin

During the ceremony, five students were presented with awards by Owen Mussington, the well-known youth and community leader at East End. The recipients were Arielle Gaskin for outstanding academic performance; Rochelle Duncan for improved academic performance; Kenvil Findlay, Good Citizenship Award; Vernique Hughes, Positive Behaviour and Attitude Award; and Amelique Hodge, Enthusiasm and Participation in Sports Award.

A section of the audience

The Corporate citizen Award of the Royal Anguilla Police Force was presented to Jasmin Ryan, one of the graduates, by Woman Police Officer Constable Augustina Carbon.

The Elected Representative for District 2, Jerome Roberts, congratulated the graduates and the teachers and offered his best wishes to them.

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