Sis Martha encourages graduands to be SJCK ambassadors (+Video)

Principal of the St Joseph’s Convent, Kingstown (SJCK), Sister Martha Sebastien has urged the graduating class of 2022 to “be the light through the storm.”

Sis Martha used the opportunity at the graduation ceremony held at the school’s auditorium on April 28 to call on the students to continue to shine their light, even into the future.

She also encouraged them to “be SJCK ambassadors for the great work we do.”

In congratulating the graduating students, the principal said she wants them to “reflect on your achievements, celebrate with your families and friends who have supported you.”

As the students begin their next steps towards another milestone, Sis Martha reminded them that “steadfast, resolute and determined, we are all kept together.”

The principal told her graduating students that, “we faced incredible and memorable moments that we choose to use as stepping stones.”

Some of the students may be stepping out into the world of work, while others may be pursuing higher learning but regardless of their path, the principal wants their future years to “be characterised by empathy, compassion, objectivity and a willingness to take risks.”

Sis Martha also challenged her departing students to “always lead by example, work hard and play straight.”

“Yours is the future, and on you the world will come to depend,” she told the graduands.

The St Joseph’s Convent, Kingstown celebrated its 75th anniversary in January.

The celebrations will culminate later this year with a Christmas production and cocktail.

In her remarks at last Thursday’s graduation, the principal, who is new to the school noted that her job “is to support our girls’ education ambition.”

She said that the school tries to equip students to ensure that “the built environment of tomorrow is an exceptional one”

Additionally, SJCK’s mission is to “provide truly accessible, relevant and cost effective education, enabling students to enhance careers, increase professionalism and contribute to a better built environment, spiritually, academically, socially and otherwise.”

With CSEC exams around the proverbial corner, the principal reminded the 2022 graduating class that she is looking forward to great results from them.
With little time remaining, she encouraged them to study hard for their final exams.

“All of you have achieved something remarkable.”

After exams, and after leaving the SJCK, she wants the students to consider the positive impact the school has made on their lives.

Sister Martha further charged the graduating class to “continue to live responsibly in all your future endeavours.”

Reflecting on the students’ journey over the past five years, the principal recalled that it “started with uncertain steps.”

Nevertheless, these steps took them to “remarkable heights.”

And during those five years they encountered “trials and tribulations along the way,” especially when the students had to resort to online learning as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite online learning not being the best form of learning for many of her students Sis Martha said,” … You all soldiered on, and came out the stronger, indisputably, we have been successful.”

She acknowledged that there were many challenges, but in all, the students made “memories to be remembered for years to come.”

“What an incredible set of girls you all are,” the principal said proudly.

Sis Martha also noted some other achievements regarding the school plant which has been repainted, and many areas repaired and given a facelift.

She also spoke of the success of the SJCK’s Key Club, in making contributions to organisations such as the Cancer Society.

SJCK has also been able to help the less fortunate through many fund raising efforts, she recounted.

And students from the SJCK were congratulated for their success at the recent Carifta games in Jamaica.

Four SJCK students made it to the games and did the school and nation proud in swimming and the Relays.

In her remarks, the principal thanked everyone, past and present, who contributed in making SJCK a success.

The feature address at the graduation ceremony was delivered by police superintendent, Kameicia Blake.

A report was presented by SJCK’s Head Girl, Alysha Cornwall; and the vote of thanks delivered by Ronda Sutherland, a teacher at the school.