St Mary students awarded for excellence

DEVON PEN, St Mary:

Twelve students from six primary schools in St Mary have been awarded were awarded for their excellence in last year’s Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exams by the Tall Tee Sports Foundation and Friends.

At a recent awards function was held at the Tapioca Village in St Mary, the top-performing male and female students from Golden Valley Primary, Castleton Primary, Scott’s Hall Primary, Rock River Primary, Devon Pen Primary and Infant, and Mahoe Hill Primary were awarded by the foundation.

Guest speaker Dr Norman Dunn, member of parliament (MP) for South East St Mary, spoke about the importance of children getting a well-rounded education as a pathway out of poverty. He urged students to surround themselves with individuals who offer positive encouragement and guidance, leaving a lasting, beneficial impact on their lives.

“Children, in particular, must associate themselves with persons, who can assist them in growing in life,” said Dunn. “Whether it is about the conversation that they will have at that age or hanging out at a location, it is important to have people around you with positive thoughts and good encouragement. It’s an honour to gather and to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our young scholars. We gather not only to recognise your hard work and dedication, but also to honour the spirit of generosity and community upliftment embodied by our friend and mentor, Ray ‘Tall Tee’ Smith.”

Dunn highlighted Smith’s commitment to education and community development, particularly his efforts to provide schools with resources such as computers, and his recognition of those striving for excellence.

“Tall Tee’s unwavering commitment to education and community development is a beacon of hope and inspiration for all of us ... . His recognition of individuals who strive for excellence, and his commitment in uplifting our community speaks volumes of his selflessness and vision,” Dunn added.

AWARDEES

The awardees included Chrissania Harper and Omar Pickersgill of Golden Valley Primary; Brianna Pantry and Devauni Bryant of Castleton Primary; Derrick Rochester and Rai-Jhaune Grant of Scott’s Hall Primary; Oneilla Armstrong and Erren Brown of Rock River Primary; Kaylee Wallace and Jordane Shaw of Devon Pen Primary and Infant; and Dimoya Buckley and Kirk Brown of Mahoe Hill Primary.

Cameka Campbell-Green, a lecturer at the Montego Bay Community College, praised the Tall Tee Sports Foundation and Friends for their commitment to nation-building and continuous support of education. She also addressed the parents in attendance, stressing the importance of their involvement in their children’s education.

“One of the most important things for parents is for them to listen to their child. I have learnt through my own parenting experience that in sitting down with your children and having a conversation with them, it makes it so much easier, “she pointed out.

“Research shows parental involvement can lead to higher test scores and better results. So children whose parents are involved are less likely to skip school, less likely to misbehave in class, and they have better social skills. Children emulate their parents, so if they see you working hard, they too will want to work hard. I say to you, parents, brace for the rough seas because it is not easy,” she concluded.

Smith shared his journey from his early days as a hustler on the streets of Kingston to his life overseas, where his passion for education and community service has brought him peace.

“To all the honourees, I thank you for your hard work and I urge you to do well in high school,” he stated. “Children, I urge you to do your best while in school. Make use of the opportunity that you get, surround yourself with positive people, and always remember to stay focused. Never lose sight of your goal.”

Smith also expressed gratitude to his friends who helped make the foundation a success.

Golden Valley Primary and Castleton Primary won the Excellence Award, and they will share the trophy for six months each.

Additionally, Jennifer Burrell, retiring after 31 years of service to education, was honoured with a plaque for her dedication. Special awards were also presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to community development and nation-building.

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