FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19: Education Minister Dame Jennifer Smith today spoke highly of the academic achievements of Berkeley Institute students.

Dame Jennifer told the House of Assembly she was impressed by accomplishments highlighted at the senior school’s annual prizegiving ceremony last night.

“Mr. Speaker, one week ago I told the Bermuda Union of Teachers that, ‘all is not well in education’ — and that is true. However, it is also true that all is not lost.

“Mr. Speaker, as I continue to focus on those issues that need to be addressed within the education system, I am also going to highlight and celebrate the successes. I believe that it is important to hold up and encourage hardworking dedicated teachers and hardworking dedicated students even while we work to ensure that all students have a positive school experience.

“Mr. Speaker, Berkeley's Prizegiving offers a perfect opportunity for us to accentuate the positive.”

Dame Jennifer said she was “impressed and proud” by the contribution of all the students but highlighted the efforts of four in particular — Stefanny Sanchez, an S3 high honours student, and S2 high honours students Marshall Stoneham, Sudan Furbert and Tashel Bean.

“Mr. Speaker, there were several success stories yesterday, but the students I have mentioned by name stand out as well-rounded models for their peers to emulate.

“Mr. Speaker, we have much to celebrate as we look at the achievements of our young people and I look forward to learning about the achievements of our Cedarbridge students at their prizegiving on the 30th.”

For more read tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.