Yellow and white were the dominant colours in the Brown’s Town Methodist Church Hall as parents, teachers and well-wishers assembled in honour of the 2016 graduates of Hillcove High Achievers Preparatory School.
The school leaving exercise and awards ceremony which was held on Tuesday, June 28, was well supported by family and friends. Eight grade six graduates said their farewells to the institution while twenty-one kinder three students moved up into grade one.
The ceremony, called to order by Pastor Fitzroy Bailey was under the theme “Ignite the light and let it shine”. The class of 2016 graduates then entered to the sound of popular Katy Perry song “Fireworks” which perfectly highlighted their theme.
The first scripture reading was done by Shaina Drummond, after which Tacia Black extended the welcome. After the second scripture reading, by Sanique Wallen, the chairperson Judian Marston-Clarke was introduced by principal Adita Sherwood. The chairman then made her opening remarks followed by a series of items from kinder 3 students and the school’s JCDC 2016 bronze medallists. Greetings were also extended by members of the Parent Teachers Association, Kent Skyers and Ivan Anderson.
Principal Adita Sherwood gave an astounding report of the school’s numerous accomplishments for 2016. With a population of 12 trained teachers, three assistant teachers, a financial controller, two caregivers, two cooks, two janitors and 160 students, Hillcove succeeded in a number of activities. Some of which included: Parent’s Day, Fun Day, Christmas concert, Teachers Day, Sports Day, Children’s Day, Careers Day, birthday parties, and Read Across Jamaica Day with parents delivering books and reading for the students. Students also participated in the JCDC receiving two silver medals and one bronze. The principal added that among this year’s graduates, there were placements for Westwood High, Knox College and St. Hilda’s High with an overall GSAT average of 81 percent. She left a reminder with graduates saying: “Students, grow where you are planted. It is not the school you are placed that matters but how you apply yourself.” She ended by thanking parents, staff and others who supported the school in their many ways.
The reflection was done by top girl and boy Shenijah Rodney and Jelani Edwards.
The guest speaker, Morris Stewart, was introduced by Anita Johnson after which he offered words of encouragement to the graduates, their parents and the school teachers. Mr Stewart entreated the graduates to let their lights shine as bright as the theme stated and ended by reminding them not to be complacent and stagnant. “Walk good and let God be your director and He will keep you”, he said.
A number of items presented by the grade six graduating class were followed by the presentation of special awards. Top achievers included golden victory girl and boy, Shenijah Rodney (overall GSAT student) and Jelani Edwards. Tacia Black was also a top awardee having received two subject awards and award for the best academic runner up student. The most improved student’s award went to Rondean Wray and Azurickna Green.
The vote of thanks was given by Jereen Watson, and the ceremony ended with the singing of the National Anthem.
