Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.
Whatever you have learnt or received or heard from me, or seen in me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. – Philippians 4:8-9.
As the first week of this term comes to an end today, I think that I must share with all parents/guardians and wider Barbados part of the 2011-2012 report from Mrs Eleanor Brathwaite, principal of St Matthew’s Primary School.
“Today marks the end of your primary school journey. You move on to new schools, new environment[s], to totally new atmospheres.
“You will meet persons from various walks of life and the pressures will be great. Like the popular Oprah Winfrey says, surround yourself with people who will lift you higher and keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions.
“Choose always to be a first-rate version of yourself and no one else. Develop positive attitudes towards your work, especially homework. Continue as if you were still at this school, always have homework. Wear your school uniforms especially with pride.
“Boys, your undergarments are not anyone’s business; therefore your boxers need not be in anyone’s face.
“Girls, keep the powder out of your neck and remember that if your uniform carries a belt, it belongs around your waist and not your neck. Leave the make-up home when going to school.
“Remember, school is serious business if you want to be successful.
“I implore you to live out the great virtues taught to you at this school and have respect first for God, then yourself and then for your fellow man.
“Use the talents you possess wisely. Live with intention, walk to the edge; listen hard and continue to learn. Remember, the teacher will open the door but you must enter by yourself.”
I would hope that all parents/guardians and students will read this article or draw it to the attention of students, as Brathwaite is right.
What do we realize about these students leaving primary school? They are all very innocent, but by the end of the first term at secondary school there is a complete change in their dress and behaviour [so] that one cannot believe [they] were the same students.
I urge parents to see to it that their children conform to the school rules and not defy them.
