Students called on to pursue excellence

Adrian Frater, News Editor

Western Bureau:

"As a past student, I am very proud of you," were the words of Merlette Barrett-Fender, who was guest speaker at the recent prize-giving ceremony at Mt Alvernia High School in Montego Bay.

Barrett-Fender, who is vice-principal at Knox College in Clarendon, was addressing students at her alma mater, whom she believes, based on their exemplary examination results, share her penchant for excellence.

"The examination results, especially in the non-traditional areas, are absolutely great … . I am so proud of you. This is the kind of positive news that makes me feel good as a past student."

Barrett-Fender implored them to use their talent, skills and other excellent qualities developed at the school into the post-high-school life.

Last year, Mt Alvernia High School entered students in 23 different subjects in external examinations. The list included non-traditional subjects such as technical drawing. With students like Danielle Eccleston and Georgina Brown sparkling with eight distinctions each from eight subjects, the school's pass rate per subject was over 93 per cent.

In praising the teachers for their yeoman services in preparing the students for their examinations, Barrett-Fender said the teachers also need to be good role models, as their duties include producing well-rounded students.

"You need to be good role models to these students because if they are to succeed, they will need a good values system to guide them," Barrett-Fender told the teachers. "You need to behave in a way that they would want to emulate you and follow in your footsteps."

SHAPING LIVES

In regard to the school's administration, the past student said school administrators should be prepared for all eventualities, knowing that the students are from different backgrounds and come with differing needs.

"You need to lead with a soul because your imprint on the life of the students is usually lasting," noted the educator. "You have a duty to touch as many lives as you can."

For the parents in attendance, Barrett-Fender said they have an obligation to do right by their children, and as a consequence, they need to get their priorities right.

"Parents need to get their priorities right in terms of adequately planning for their children's education," said Barrett-Fender. "You can't be spending money on social events while the educational needs of your children are not being addressed."