Editor-in-chief implores students to beat the books
Published:Tuesday | June 29, 2010 | 12:00 AM
Nadisha Hunter, Gleaner Writer
Students of Guy's Hill Primary School were rallied by Gleaner Editor-in-Chief Garfield Grandison on Sunday to lift their academic performance, with particular emphasis on the Grade Four Literacy and Numeracy Tests which are slated to be held today.
Grandison, who was the keynote speaker at the school's graduation ceremony, implored staff and students to recommit themselves to raising standards.
"Your performance in 2009 was disappointing, according to the data from the Ministry of Education. You have the potential to do better," he said.
"I hope we can begin the change on Tuesday (today). I am confident that working as a team, we can achieve outstanding results in the numeracy test in the coming years, but let us begin now," he added.
He saluted Guy's Hill administrators, including principal Joyce Tennant Stewart, for their hard work, and praised 12-year-old Rose Somie for emerging as the school's top Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) graduate, averaging 91 per cent.
Alluding to the ongoing debate on the influence of administrative leadership on GSAT results, the editor-in-chief said systemic accountability was key to boosting academic performance in primary schools.
The early bird
While urging the graduates to enjoy their summer break, Grandison encouraged them to get cracking on their bookwork before the new school year starts.
"You must be outstanding to climb the ladder at the workplace. You must be dedicated, committed and efficient if you are always to get good grades. Remember to begin early," he advised the students.
Grandison will be benefactor of a scholarship for one person from the 87-member graduating class, to be chosen by school administrators.
Guy's Hill Primary also honoured Veronica Henry and Maureen Stewart Hemmings - two stalwart early-childhood educators - who have served the community for more than 20 years.