CUL DE SAC:--- St. Maarten Academy on Monday (March 9) unveiled its signature project - The Wall of Achievement – at the school's general assembly. This was the brainchild of one of the school's business teachers, Ms. Keturah Thompson. The structure was designed by Mr. Henry Thomas, Art teacher and Academy graduate.
The Wall of Achievement highlights the most recent graduates of the school in ten areas - Most Outstanding Academic Performance; Outstanding Contribution to the School; Outstanding Leadership; Outstanding Athlete; Best Mathematics, Language, Business, Science, Social Science and Expressive Arts.
Also recognized are alumni who have contributed notably to this island and still continue to contribute in the areas of government, education, the arts, business, and communication. They are used as role models for others to follow.
This project had its genesis in 2011 when Ms. Thompson felt that students who do well must be given the spotlight in a tangible way.
"This shows in a very visible manner how well we at the St. Maarten Academy, the first English medium school in this country, have done over the years in providing a stellar education," Thompson stated.
Guest speaker and Academy graduate, Sidonia M. Hodge-Lacorbiniere, Head of the Department of Education, Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports regaled the students with her experiences at the school, her struggle with some subjects, and her passion for others. Although she left the Academy some 25 years ago, Mrs. Hodge-Lacorbiniere said she built on the foundation in education she received at St. Maarten Academy, "much like the education that is being delivered to students today."
"It is an education that is innovating and growing and staying true to the concept of the Academy as envisioned by the founding fathers when the school opened in 1974," Hodge-Lacorbiniere said. She also lauded the school for starting the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). Her parting words were especially inspirational. "I am who I am because I was born in St. Maarten [and] because I attended the St. Maarten Academy. My gifts and talents and those of my peers were nurtured in this environment. Within these walls I never doubted my ability, because my teachers never did. I encourage you not to despise your humble beginnings. Every experience was meant to enrich your life and nothing good or bad will be wasted. Lastly, recognize that to whom much is given, much is required. Your family is awaiting your contribution. Your community is awaiting your contribution, and St. Maarten is awaiting your contribution. The world is awaiting your contribution and I am looking forward to seeing your name on the Wall of Achievement," Mrs. Hodge-Lacorbiniere told the student body.
Thereafter, in the presence of the school's principal, Drs. Tallulah Baly-Vanterpool, Mrs. Hodge-Lacorbiniere unveiled the Wall of Achievement.
Ms. Thompson also recognized the contribution of the school's former principal, Mr. Shareed Hussain, to whom the idea was pitched some four years ago.
"[He] was very instrumental and inspirational in the very beginning stages, especially with procuring the sponsorship of NAGICO Insurance. The project was sponsored to the tune of US$1,500. NAGICO was fully on board when they heard of this idea. When we experienced hiccups, our capable principal, Drs. Tallulah Baly-Vanterpool stepped in and provided further assistance at the right time. This project was also supported by the FAVE school board, especially in the final stages. This is truly a St. Maarten Academy project, since it was eventually built by a true craftsman, a parent of this school Mr. Shiwgobind," Ms. Thompson explained.
Visitors to the school can view the Wall of Achievement as they enter the campus.
