FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3: Positive activity in the Island’s public school system will no longer be one of the “best kept secrets in Bermuda”, said Education Minister Dame Jennifer Smith this morning.

Speaking in the House of Assembly, Dame Jennifer highlighted the achievements of CedarBridge Academy students, singling out six who had attained a grade point average (GPA)?of 3.6 or higher.

She said: “I attended the CedarBridge prizegiving ceremony on Tuesday evening and I can tell you that it was a celebration of excellence.

“From the stimulating words of new chairman Mr Larry Mussenden, the sweet sounds of the string ensemble, the words of the students who participated, and the inspiring speech given by alumnus Antonia Mills, it was a memorable evening.”

She praised S1 students Chrisante’ Bean and Daniel Walker, who achieved GPAs of 3.8 and 3.6 respectively. She also highlighted the efforts of S2 students Ashley Johnson and Leanna Hall, who attained respective GPAs of 3.83 and 3.79.

Dame Jennifer also applauded head boy Andrew Fleming who earned five GCSEs and attained a GPA of 3.98. Andrew was also the recipient of the Principal’s Cup, awarded to a student who best exemplifies the qualities of CedarBridge Academy principal Kalmar Richards.

She also singled out Ivan Sanchez, who graduated in June and is currently pursuing an economics degree at McGill University in Canada.

Not only was Ivan an Advanced Placement Scholar who achieved a score of four on a five-point scale in three subjects, but he also earned nine GCSE passes.

The Education Minister said: “Positive activity in our schools will no longer be one of the best kept secrets in Bermuda. I will do my best to put them in the spotlight whenever I am provided with an opportunity.”

For the full story and to read the full list of prize winners see tomorrow’s edition of The Royal Gazette.