By Janelle Christie
On Friday, February 24, students from schools all around Jamaica could be seen decked out in black, green and gold in celebration of Jamaica Day.
Things at the St Ann’s Bay Infant School in St Ann, were, however, a little different on this day.
Displays of past students who have contributed to the success of the school were mounted and several leaders and honorees pinned for their outstanding performances throughout the school year.
Past students have gone on from this basic level of education to become soldiers, teachers, business developers, bankers and other contributors to Jamaica’s development.
Class monitors as well as four students from each class, who have made the honour roll, were awarded at a function held at the school on Friday morning, February 24.
It is by no coincidence that these students were awarded on that day as the school wanted to elevate their achievement as was the case for the other leaders who were highlighted and recognized on the day. It is hoped by staff members that by this, the students will realize that they too can become leaders.
The event was held under the theme “Jamaican legacy” and was commenced with a devotional exercise. Guest speakers from the St Ann Parish Library, Shellyann Martin and Janell Forrester then elaborated on a cultural story which was read. They also highlighted other aspects of the Jamaican culture. The students were then engaged in a question and answer segment.
Entertainment was provided by teachers and students who did cultural performances as well as by an array of local music.
Time was spent to mention several aspects of the Jamaican culture from the dialect to the food. Teachers and parents dedicated their time to making some of these foods for the students to enjoy.
The function was said to be a success by teacher, Jodeen Wisdom-Josephs who says it was well supported by parents and nearby schools.
Mrs Wisdom-Josephs and another teacher, Yolanda Beckford, are two of those past students who were recognized for having contributed to the success of the school.
