Dinthill Technical High School recently recognised close to 350 students who maintained an average of 65 per cent or higher at its Parent-Teachers’ Association (PTA) award ceremony, held at the Enos Barrett Multi-Purpose Hall.
The event, staged under the theme “Celebrating Excellence: Inspiring Greatness,” highlighted academic achievement across the institution, with students receiving bronze, silver and gold awards in various subjects. Sixth-formers were honoured for their work in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination, while 13 students who achieved mastery and were placed on the school’s honour roll.
Education Officer Dr Euphema Burke-Robinson brought greetings and congratulated the PTA for recognising the students. Board Chairman and former principal Dennis Clarke also addressed the gathering, urging students to focus on becoming decent citizens.
Keynote speaker Leighton Smith told the students their recognition was the result of dedication to schoolwork. “The teachers here have done their best in helping to shape you to start this journey of excellence, but the journey has just begun, as higher learning awaits, but you must keep focus,” Smith said.
During his 17 minutes at the podium, Smith praised parents for their sacrifices and asked students to “salute” them. He shared stories to engage the audience, including one about a former student he disciplined who later became a doctor. “I remember receiving a letter from a former student whom I had reason to discipline (flogged), he thanked me for awakening his true potential. Recently I went to visit a colleague at the Spanish Town Hospital and was able to summon that same former student (now a doctor) to assist, therefore, you must keep meaningful company,” Smith said to resounding applause.
PTA President Amoy Levers said the initiative was designed to encourage students to excel. “We started with, last year it was 305, this year it has increased in numbers, so the board is very pleased with the growth and will continue to reward [the students] for good work,” Levers said.
Acting principal Christopher Pitterson and Dinthill Past Students’ Association President Joseph Small endorsed the programme as a significant achievement for the Linstead-based institution.
Head girl Ruthan Edwards presented Smith with a token of appreciation, later describing the event as “fabulous.”