Administrators at Meadowbrook High will on Monday stage a candlelight vigil on the school grounds in celebration of the life of 17-year-old Mickolle Moulton, who was gunned down in Arnett Gardens on Sunday.

Retired Major Paul Brown, president of the Meadowbrook High Parent — Teachers’ Association (PTA), said the vigil — which is a collaboration between the PTA, the past students’ association, classmates and Mickolle’s teachers, the school board, friends and other members of the school family — is expected to be a mark of solidarity against violence, especially when it concerns the youth of Jamaica.

Brown said the event, expected to begin at 6:00 pm, will feature a prayer for Jamaica’s youth, remembrance and reflections on Mickolle’s life, and a candle-lighting ceremony.

Donovan Thomas, president of the school’s past students’ association, said the event will provide an avenue for stakeholders to assist Mickolle’s classmates, friends and those close to her to get over the tragic incident.

Thomas also added that one of the aims is to stand united and highlight that such incidents cannot continue.

“We are doing whatever we can in our space to show that we grieve with the family and friends of Mickolle and are taking a stand against violence towards youth,” he said.

In the meantime, Thomas said the past students’ association believes that providing proper guidance for youth is one of the starting points to curb the crime monster.

“We have to now guide and teach youth as to what is the right way, what is good and what is unacceptable when dealing with conflict. Conflicts will come but it is now up to us who are equipped with the skills to help them deal with conflict without getting violent because this eventually has a ripple effect in society,” he said.

According to Thomas, the vigil is open to the public. He is also asking people who plan to attend to bring their candles and stand with the school family against dastardly acts.

— Kimberley Hibbert