FRONT ROW from left to right - Bernique Taylor, student, Latanya Davis, student, Sheryl Wood, Principal BACK ROW from left to right - Ghandi Sands, teacher, Dequirah Williams, student, Stefon Rahming, student, Miss GB,Akeem Bain, student, Wilfred Barnett, former student and Class of 2010 graduate from Jack Hayward High School, Damon Bright, student
By Janet Albury
Freeport, Grand Bahama - It was a night to remember for the eight [8] graduates of The Beacon School and their parents who were treated to a celebratory dinner at Le Med Restaurant.
The graduates, whose ages range from 17 to 20 years old, expressed their gratitude and love for their teachers, fellow students and Mrs. Sheryl Wood, Principal of The Beacon School. Mrs. Wood encouraged the students to stay in touch and reminded them 'that the door is always open'.
Mrs. Wood was pleased to announce that a former Beacon School student who was present at the dinner, Wilfred Barnett, is scheduled to graduate on June 10th of this year from the Jack Hayward High School. She stated that Wilfred is a fine example of how well a student can do and she heartily congratulated him and wished him much success. When asked to give brief remarks, Barnett stated that he began attending The Beacon School reading at a Grade 1 level, and over his five [5] years of attendance worked with his teacher to steadily address his reading disability. He gave thanks for the dedication of his teacher, Mrs. Fabia Wilson, who encouraged and pushed him each day. He reflected that it was extremely difficult to settle into High School, however, after completing the first school year, he joined various groups such as the Interact Club, the Governor's General programme and the Boys’ Choir. He said that he was fortunate to have a kind homeroom teacher who looked after him and that made a big difference in his ability to thrive. Barnett looks forward to attending BTVI business classes and aspires to work as a Waiter with hopes of becoming an Assistant Chef. He says that his motto is 'to be yourself, keep on smiling, be real and live life to the fullest'.
Mrs. Ghandi Sands, a Teacher at the school, told the parents that they have to encourage their children each day and if the child is trying to do a task, parents should stand back and allow them to attempt it on their own. She encouraged the attendees with the Scripture passage 'we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us'.
Attending this milestone occasion was Miss Grand Bahama, Tempestt Stubbs, an educator at the Bishop Michael Eldon Anglican High School. At her first public appearance, Miss Grand Bahama addressed the graduates and stated that it is important for the students to always be respectable to others. Miss Stubbs encouraged the graduates to keep in touch with their teachers. Among the advice that she imparted was the following: the world is unfair; do not let others define your limitations; and, ask for opportunities so that you may be given a chance to try. Further, she admonished the students that through good times and bad, one should always praise and acknowledge God. She left them with these parting words, “You are going to encounter struggles and you may fall down, but that is life; you have to get back up and be the best person that you can possibly be.”
Many of the students will attend BTVI in order to acquire skill training. Some are interested in working in restaurants to become waiters and waitresses. Proprietor of Le Med and G.B. Foods, Mr. Menas Vardaoulis, has encouraged the students of The Beacon School and as part of his work training program has provided employment to their students. The future is bright for eight charming and well deserving graduates.
