With violence, youth delinquency and teacher absenteeism on the rise in many schools throughout the country, the students of St James Secondary have been called upon to actively pursue their school’s motto to “Set Standards High” and strive for excellence. On Wednesday, students, past and present, as well as teachers and other members of staff, celebrated the school’s 50 anniversary in fine style at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s. This year’s theme was Developing Minds, Inspiring Futures.
Set Standards High
Colin Partap, Minister of State, Office of the Prime Minister, in delivering his address, encouraged students to seize every opportunity to better themselves, as the future of the nation relied on them. Partap said since its inception in January 1961, St James Sec, as the school is affectionately called, has been doing its part in educating the children and citizens of T&T. He said while principals and teachers today faced a difficult task in the proper execution of their duties, he called on them to remain committed to the job. “This institution and its dedicated staff have bravely faced many challenges over the years and, without a doubt, will continue to overcome many more through mutual collaboration and determination.”
Partap said his government was dedicated to improving the lives of young people as the People’s Partnership recognised education as being one of the major pillars of the country’s economic development.
Knowledge, information, and human capital, he stated, were the main economic assets of advanced nations. Partap added that many citizens who “passed through the walls” of St James Secondary have since excelled in their chosen fields. Some of them include entertainers Destra Garcia and Edgill ‘Maximus Dan’ Thomas, National Female Chess Champion Aditi Soondarsingh, and Guardian Features Editor, Peter Ray Blood.
Respect goes both ways
Meanwhile, Rohit Dube School’s Supervisor III, Ministry of Education, told the school’s principal, Soondardai Boodoo, that he was happy to know that the institution continued to encourage academic as well as sporting achievements. Noting that respect will “never be old fashioned” Dube appealed to the students to respect their teachers, who he said should always lead by example. Echoing similar sentiments was National Parent Teacher Association President, Zena Ramatali, who asserted that parents needed to play a more proactive role in the lives of their children, if there was to be a reduction in the high levels of crime and violence plaguing the country. She added, “Students listen to your parents and teachers as they have walked the road before you…Take your time growing up…Your time will come.”
Tokens of appreciation
At the function, retired teacher, Alison Creque, was showered with gifts and tokens of appreciation from her past students, who all praised her for her dedication and long-standing service to the profession.
Members of the school’s choir showed off their vocal skills and a song and dance tribute to Creque by students of the school brought a wide smile to her face and had the appreciative crowd in stitches. Creque retired last year after 29 years of service.
