"For the first time in the history of our school, 70 percent of the graduating class have attained at least a level two pass in the CXC examinations," declared Dr. Richard Wildman, Principal of the Clifton Hunter High School (CHHS), while beaming with pride.
Dr. Wildman was addressing the audience at CHHS 2021 graduation ceremony held in the school's auditorium on Thursday evening (2 December) under the theme 'Dream It! Achieve It! Believe It!'.
Ninety-eight students graduated with level two diplomas, having passed five or more subjects, including English and mathematics.
The pride on Dr. Wildman’s face became more evident as he mentioned CHHS ranking as the top regional school in Electronic Data Preparation Management (EDPM) and Physics after attaining 12 out of 15 top regional positions for EDPM and the top ranking for Physics in the 2020 CSEC examinations.
He further recognised the exceptional performance of several graduates, including top Physics student Ruby Pileta and the trio of Swishanie Lewis, Kareisha Nelson and Shaqkeem Williams, named in the top nine for the Caribbean region for their academic performance in EDPM.
Describing the school's achievement as 'simply outstanding', Dr. Wildman continued, "Our achievements speak to the dedication of staff and commitment of parents and community partners to our world-class aspirations."
Also in attendance at the ceremony was Premier, Honourable Wayne Panton.
Mr. Panton used the opportunity to congratulate the graduates and provide them with a few words of encouragement. "I urge you all to focus on working together, supporting each other, believing in each other, relying on the support of others around you and having confidence in yourselves as you move forward."
The Premier added, "You have an amazing future in front of you. Your abilities and talents will carry you very far."
Others in attendance at the ceremony included members of the CHHS staff, Deputy Premier Hon. Christopher Saunders, Minister for Planning, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure Hon. Johany 'Jay' Ebanks, Parliamentary Secretaries Mr. Isaac Rankine and Mr. Dwayne Seymour, Department of Education Services (DES) Director Mr. Mark Ray and Senior School Improvement Officer Mr. Nicholas Obie.
Student of the Year Ruby Pileta delivered the graduates' address.
Keynote speaker Ms. Kimberley Conolly delivered her remarks remotely.
To watch Clifton Hunter High School's 2021 Graduation Ceremony, visit CIGTV's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fnQYZRdLAA&t=2973s
or follow Clifton Hunter High School on Facebook.