TOP-PERFORMING students at Adelphi Primary School in St James were recognised for their outstanding academic achievements during the institution’s graduation ceremony on June 25. The students received more than $120,000 in cash awards.

It was presented through the generosity of past student and journalist Serena Grant, and United States-based company Themis Mortgage. The awards were aimed at encouraging academic excellence and inspiring students to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

Grant, an information officer at the Jamaica Information Service, presented the inaugural Language Arts award to top-performing student Natavia Kerr, who received a trophy and a cash prize of $40,000 for excelling in the subject. In addition, Florida-based Themis Mortgage, in recognition of Grant’s commitment to highlighting the achievements of communities and institutions that are on the margins, donated US$500, which was shared equally between the school’s top-performing boy and girl in the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations, Roshea Hamilton and Jodane Campbell, who each received US$250.

Top-performing Primary Exit Profile student Roshea Hamilton (right) receives a cash prize of US$250, sponsored by Florida-based Themis Mortgage, and presented by past student of the school Serena Grant.

Addressing the graduation ceremony, Grant, who is an alumna of Adelphi Primary School, encouraged the graduates to believe in themselves and strive for excellence. “I created this Language Arts award because I believe literacy is the foundation of success. The ability to read, write and communicate confidently can change lives,” she said.

Grant urged the students never to allow their circumstances to define their future. “Always remember that good things, big dreams and great people come out of Adelphi Primary School. Never let where you come from limit where you can go. Dream big, work hard, and one day return to inspire the next generation,” she added.

An emotional Kenesia Grizzle, mother of Language Arts awardee Natavia Kerr, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, noting that the award came at a time when her family was facing financial hardship. Grizzle explained that she is currently unemployed after leaving work to care for her ailing father, but has remained committed to ensuring that her children attend school consistently. She said she was overwhelmed and pleasantly surprised by her daughter’s achievement, noting that Natavia embraced every challenge and persevered to earn the highest Language Arts score at the school.

She also praised both Natavia and her twin brother Janai, who also received an award during the ceremony, describing them as determined students who understand the value of education and hard work.

Journalist Serena Grant (left) presents a prize of US$250 to top-performing Primary Exit Profile student Jodane Campbell, sponsored by Florida-based Themis Mortgage.

Meanwhile, Principal Marlon Campbell described the Class of 2026 as a resilient group that overcame extraordinary challenges after beginning primary school during the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that the students’ journey was reflected in the graduation theme, “Storm Tested…Future Ready.”

He also highlighted their impressive PEP placement results, which included placements at Spot Valley High School, Anchovy High School, Muschett High School, St James High School, Herbert Morrison Technical High School, William Knibb Memorial High School, Montego Bay High School, Mount Alvernia High School and Cornwall College.

“We started with COVID and ended with Melissa, but as the theme states, ‘Storm Tested… Future Ready’. We have definitely been tested and are now ready to face the future,” the principal said, while commending the graduates, their parents and teachers for their perseverance and success.