Minister of Education Hon. Silveria Jacobs recently told a school leaving exercise at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School (MLK), where she just recently served as School Manager, in her key note address, that education and respect are steps to reach our goals.
In her address Minister Jacobs expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to address the parents, staff and community members in this capacity, as well as to be able to give some words of encouragement and inspiration to "her students!"
Minister Jacobs highlighted the importance of setting high goals: "First take the time to figure out what you love to do and are good at, and formulate your Dream or Goal. Next write down the STEPS and plan how you will acheive these goals. Then ACT by taking each step in order. EVALUATE along the way if you are heading in the right direction, seeking advice from loved ones and trusted ones. Continue to move forward in order to achieve your goals." She reminded them that the mountains may seem too high and the valleys too deep at times, but whatever the obstacle placed in their paths, they must persevere by either going around, over, under or pushing it out of the way."
The Minister described the life and journey of local engineer Jerome Chittick whose steps took him the long and scenic route in order to achieve his goals, as an example to the students. Chittick is living his DREAMS as a Manager at GEBE Water Plant today through hard work, dedication and the courage to NEVER GIVE UP!! With Education your future will be brighter, and as our ancestors always taught us: RESPECT can take you around the world.
With respect to diplomas, Errolanie Jones, was awarded several prizes as the top academic student of 2011-2012 group eight class. She was awarded a complete paid scholarship for her first year at the Milton Peters Havo by both the EWA foundation of the Lynch family, as well as the Ministry of Education Culture Youth and Sports.
The Ceremony was a very special occasion for all involved, and was held at the Dutch Quarter Community Center which was donated by its director Mauricia Nicholas-Hodge.
Several community icons were present in the persons of Julian Lynch, Myrna Lynch, Miss Vero, Mrs. Richardson of the SDA Community Helpers Foundation.
Patricia Williams, senior policy advisor Division Public Education Services, represented the Division and gave congratulatory remarks to the students, parents, Management and staff as well.