Albion's past student donates equipment to alma mater

Adrian Frater, News Editor

Western Bureau:

The Albion Primary and Junior High School, in St James, now has at least one laptop for each classroom at the institution, thanks to the generosity of past student Kay Morris, of the Canadian-based Kay Morris Foundation.

In a ceremony at the school last Thursday, the kind-hearted Morris, who attended the school in the early 1970s, handed over 25 laptops, a projector, a printer, one DVD player, a special hi-tech lab camera and several surge protectors.

"Once you have the right skills, technology has the capacity to take you very far," said Morris, in an address to the school family, who were joined for the happy occasion by Central St James Member of Parliament Lloyd B. Smith; and councillor for the area, Suzette Brown.

"This school did a lot for me as a child," said Morris, who also painted a block at the school at a cost of over $350,000. "I do hope that in my own way, I have helped the school to do the same to the present students."

The school's principal, Lenoval Morle, who is now on pre-retirement leave, was full of praise for the generosity of Morris, whom he described as one of the past students who was faithful in keeping a promise to the school.

"Today is a very important day in the life of the school and it can be viewed in three contexts for reflection" said Morle. "Kay Morris has in a significant way, recognised the role played by her alma mater in helping to chart the course of her present status; second, her contribution to the school is a perfect fit for establishing linkages with past students and the private sector; and third, this occasion represents my last official act on behalf of the school."

According to Morle, just over a year ago, he got a call from Morris, who indicated she wanted to help the school and since then, it has been an awesome experience and she has done wonders for the institution. Initially, she started with a $486,300 facelift of the school, which she followed up with the latest gifts.

MP Smith was also full of praise for Morris, describing her gifts, especially the laptops as essential tools in making a mark in the new information age.

"I must congratulate Kay Morris for her contribution to Albion Primary and Junior High School, it is always good when a past student gives back to their school," said Smith, noting that the technological gifts will help to empower the current student population.

"Nobody can compete successfully in today's world if they are not computer literate," Smith told the obviously pleased students. "I am urging you to treat your gifts well as you venture into the information age."

As a token of their appreciation to Morris, the students and teachers entertained her in songs, skits and poetry, which were well delivered.