Denbigh High scores big in CSEC exam results

Dave Lindo, Gleaner Writer

OUTGOING PRINCIPAL of Denbigh High School, Jean Porter, is on top of the world after witnessing the best-ever Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) results in the school's history.

Porter said this is the best retirement gift she could ever receive.

Shaneika Howard and Samora Mitchell both got nine grade ones, a first-time achievement for the upgraded high school.

"We had students over the years getting nine subjects, but it was the first time we were getting nine grade ones," a very happy Porter told The Gleaner.

Shaneika got ones in agriculture science, physics, chemistry, mathematics, English langauge, human and social biology, physical education and sports, food and nutrition and information technology.

She was very happy about her excellent performance. "I was surprised (because) I didn't expect so many grade ones. I still can't believe it! I am so happy!" she said with a broad smile.

Meanwhile, Samora got ones in biology, chemistry, electrical and electronic technology, English language, information technology, mathematics, physical education, principles of accounts and Spanish.

"It's a nice feeling. The hard work did pay off," he said. "I spent six nights out of the week burning the midnight oil and it paid off."

One student at Denbigh High passed 10 subjects, 41 passed nine subjects, 33 got eight subjects and 38 were successful in seven subjects.

Porter said this good showing came as a result of the proper planning put in place by the school.

"Part of our school improvement plan was to improve the quality of our grades because, over the years, we have been getting quantity with students passing eight to nine subjects," she said.

"So we are now seeing the reality in the quality of the grades in more students getting grade ones in the subject areas."

Porter added: "One of the things we stress here is that we encourage our teachers to add value to their students. See where they are and then take them from where you get them to a much higher point."

For the last four years, Denbigh has been the number-one-ranked upgraded high school in mathematics and English language, an achievement which Porter is also proud of.

rural@gleanerjm.com