Happy Vale’s valedictorian counsels graduates

The “Richmond”, Welches, St Michael school may be small in number and size, but the graduating class of Happy Vale Montessori School is big in determination and spirit. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic halting physical classes and the loss of close relatives and other adversities, the 13 graduates ended the final chapter of their primary school career in grand style at the St Paul’s Conference Centre on Sunday.

Guest Speaker Haydn Rhynd, in his short but powerful speech, reminded parents to support their children’s chosen career paths and guide them in the right direction.

Rhynd encouraged the students to follow their desires while cautioning parents against comparing their children with others or making them compete against each other. Instead, he advised parents to help their children to see themselves as successful already, before any grand achievements are met.

“Allow them to develop hearts that feel secure, accepted, and significant right now. This will point them to the right kind of thinking, where they learn to appreciate how to value themselves and not be defined by cultural norms or success. Understanding God’s unconditional love is key,” he urged.

The highlight of the evening was valedictorian Cruz Holford’s heartfelt speech, in which he thanked each of his teachers for the role they played in his development throughout his time at Happy Vale. He also thanked his parents and other members of his family, and credited his faith in God and thanked Him for giving him wisdom and understanding, and for His love and protection, especially throughout the pandemic. The young lad whose marks (93 in English and 96 in Mathematics) secured him a place at Harrison College will be heading off to Providence Secondary School in September.

As he reminisced on his journey to the valedictorian podium, the eleven-year-old recalled telling his parents about his long-term vision of becoming his graduating class’ valedictorian, and the constant reminders that he would have to put in the work. This included creating a vision board and staying focused, even on days when he didn’t feel like it.

“Who I am today is definitely not who I was when I started attending Happy Vale seven years ago. When I first came, playing and fun was my number one priority,” he said to peals of laughter from his classmates and teachers.

“To the teachers of Happy Vale Montessori: thank you for everything. I will miss all of you. I will always love and remember Happy Vale.”

The young man also left a wise message for his fellow graduates: “Stay focused, work hard, and never give up. Always remember the Happy Vale motto, ‘I will try’. Try when things are good and try harder when things are bad.”
corettajoe@barbadostoday.bb