Teachers, graduates say goodbye to Bethel principal

Described by Valedictorian Mishka-Ann Roberts as a goddess, a mother and the foundation of the Bethel High School, veteran educator Sylvia Findlay Scrubb joins the 2008 graduating class in spending her last day at the institution today.{{more}}

After a career spanning more than three decades, the beloved principal bade her students and faculty farewell in an emotional ceremony on Friday at the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Campden Park.

The former principal of the Barrouallie Secondary School was honored with gifts and a portrait of herself from students and teachers.

Findlay-Scrubb expressed her gratitude to those gathered, and urged the graduating students to continue their pursuit of greatness, despite the challenges that they will encounter.

Also leaving was Waylene Peters, who spent ten of her 18 years as a teacher in St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the Bethel High School.

Long time security supervisor Gailene Weekes was also honored at the ceremony; ill health caused her to leave the institution.

The 112 graduates were encouraged to among other things, maintain a sense of discipline, gratitude and honesty by feature speaker Parnell R Campbell QC.

The distinguished attorney also challenged the students to stay connected with God throughout their journey of life.

Outstanding fifth form students were rewarded for their academic and extra curricular achievements over the past year, with Kelvorn Isaacs receiving the Most Outstanding Student award.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Valedictorian Roberts had nothing but thanks and praise for the staff and principal of the school, despite admitting to behavioral problems between students and faculty.

Roberts pressed her fellow graduates to press for their goals and said they should not stop until they achieve them.

According to one teacher, the students who entered the school as “diamonds in the rough” in 2003, have now been cut and polished, and are now ready to take their place in society.