ELEVEN-YEAR-OLD Kalaila Pais of the St Angela’s Primary School is not afraid of numbers.Yesterday, this was evident when Pias found out she scored 100 per cent in mathematics in the Common Entrance Examination. During an interview at her the Collymore Rock school with the MIDWEEK NATION Kalaila, who passed for Harrison’s College, said she was extremely proud of her achievement.“It feels really good, I can’t believe it, I don’t know what else to say. I really didn’t think I was going to get 100 per cent in maths. I never got a hundred in a class test or any of the Common Entrance past papers I did at school,” said the headgirl.Meanwhile, mum Debra Pais said she was not surprised because Kalaila was always a “natural” at mathematics. However, she said: “My daughter worked very hard in preparation for that examination.”“She kept at it every day. She practised her maths and English every day. The school also helped her a lot by giving her homework and practice papers. She has done exceptionally well.”Summer Hassell also a student of the St Angela’s School scored 98 per cent in english language. While being interviewed in her school’s office the shy 11-year-old who scored 92 per cent in mathematics managed to get the words “I feel really good because I studied very hard” out of her mouth.On the other hand, Summer’s mother, Gillian Hassell was happy because her prayers have been answered.“I found saints that you can pray for children who have to do exams. I downloaded the prayer and I would say that for her nine days before the exam. On the morning of the exam I was at the the [St Patricks] church from 9 o’clock to 12 o’clock praying. I prayed that she would remember her math and her comprehension and spelling. I do think math is her stronger subject,” said Gillian.As she handed out results to students and parents principal Kim Somerville said that the school was continuing to see excellent results in the annual examination.“We are very proud of our students because both them and our teachers they have worked very hard. Today they are reaping their rewards. We had excellent results last year and for a number of years previous to this. Not just with these two top students, but all of our students did their best.” (AH)
