Dear Editor,

So often we read or are told of the failings of our young people. Sometimes very general reasons are given as to why they fail, and often without any suggested ways to ameliorate the situation.

It is with this in mind that I want to use this medium to congratulate two of the many young people who did so well in the recently concluded Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) exams. They are Shaquinna Davis and Anastassia Balfour, both students of Merl Grove High School.

I have chosen to highlight these two young ladies for a few reasons, chief among them being where there are needs, without these needs being met, failure is almost assured. However, once the required needs are met, there is no telling what positive results can be achieved. Another reason to highlight them is to point out that there are people making a difference in the lives of many youngsters and, in the process, changing the trajectory of their lives on a daily basis.

The Merl Grove Alumni Association (Toronto Chapter) started presenting the J Barbara Martin Scholarships to students “who are academically gifted but financially challenged” in 2003 and have over time added bursaries as funding allows. The association is grateful to supporters of our yearly fund-raising event who have stood with us to help “educate the child of the ordinary man”, the motto adopted in 1919 by the school’s founder, Nathaniel Spied.

Shaquinna is the 12th recipient of the scholarship and Anastassia received a bursary at the same time. They both met and surpassed the criteria for receiving and maintaining their awards throughout the four years.

Shaquinna, a quiet and very focused young lady, earned seven grade ones in the recent Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate exams and two grades twos.

Anastassia , a vivacious and hard-working young lady, acheived five grade ones and three grade twos.

Despite very challenging daily circumstances they have stayed focused, having one guarantee, that if they worked hard their school fees and certain associated expenses would be covered by the association.

We are very proud of them as they continue their education and encourage them to keep up the good work.

Labor Omnia Vincit.

Claudette Cameron

Founder

Merl Grove High School Past Students’ Association

Toronto Chapter