“Graduation Season” is back and schools across the island are gearing up for the grand occasion. Kicking off the season is The Island Academy (TIA) which held its 20th commencement exercise, on Friday, May 29th. Eight students marched to the tune of Pomp and Circumstance to receive their Primary School Diplomas: Faith Edgar, Charles Worthington, Emil Nuñez, Dorian Sanchez, Tahryneh Codd, Katie Maxon, Katherine Salinas and Sasha Flores. Family and friends all gathered at the TIA campus to celebrate the students’ scholastic accomplishments. Class teacher for the graduates, Lisa Anderson Welcomed everyone to the morning’s event.
Before the graduation speeches, there was an award ceremony for the top students from each grade level. Top students, from all levels, were awarded in various categories; including remarkable reader, creative writing guru, and excellence in mathematics, science and even citizenship. The students were called to the podium to receive their awards from their respective teachers, while proud parents looked on to their children as they were recognized for a job well done.
After the short award ceremony, graduate Faith delighted the crowd with a song, after which each graduate was called to the podium to give a brief speech. Throughout this segment, there were emotional moments as each student expressed how much they would miss TIA. The graduates also shared their fun moments throughout their final year. They all thanked TIA, for having molded and prepared them for their foray into high school.
Lady Dixie Bowen founder of TIA gave a short speech and with the assistance teacher Barbara Ancona did the honors of handing out certificates to the graduates. The recognition for most outstanding student in all academics went to Emil Nuñez. As customary, at every graduation, there is one student who is recognized for his/her outstanding achievement. This does not necessarily have to do with academics, but rather, a student who excels in the classroom and beyond. This particular student is awarded the Principal’s Cup, which was renamed the Sir Barry Bowen Cup, after the passing of Sir Barry Bowen. This year’s honoree was Charles Worthington. Congratulations Charles on a job well down! The San Pedro Sun joins the entire community in wishing the TIA 2015 graduates all the best in their future endeavors. Once again, congratulations!
