President Jeffrey Bostic used his latest school visit to spotlight the resilience and dedication of teachers, commending staff at Grazettes Primary School for their unwavering commitment in the face of growing challenges.
Addressing the school on Tuesday as part of his ongoing islandwide tour, Bostic praised educators for their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
“All of you who are assisting with the development of these little ones, I salute you,” he said, acknowledging both the complexity and importance of their work.
He was candid about the realities teachers now face, noting that the profession has evolved significantly over time. According to Bostic, educators today must navigate issues that previous generations did not, including increased exposure to violence and abuse. Despite this, he said their perseverance has been essential to maintaining Barbados’ development.
“In a sense, I envy you,” he told the teachers. “You face situations today that your predecessors didn’t have to confront. But I also envy you because I wish I could come back and do what you’re doing, working with these little ones. Because it starts here.”
President Bostic stressed that the challenges within schools cannot be ignored, warning that failure to address them could have long-term consequences for society. He urged educators to remain steadfast, encouraging a “no retreat, no surrender” approach, while reminding the wider public that the issues affecting children today will inevitably shape the country’s future.
Turning his attention to students, he called for greater respect for teachers, describing them as parental figures who often dedicate more time to their care than their own families.
“This is your home away from home,” he said, adding that teachers deserve both respect and appreciation for their sacrifices.
Expanding on the broader purpose of education, Bostic emphasised that success should not be narrowly defined by academic rankings or competition. Instead, he encouraged students, particularly those preparing for the Common Entrance Examination, to focus on doing their best and taking pride in their efforts.
“It’s not about being number one,” he said. “It’s about doing your very best at all times.”
He further underscored that every child has value and potential, urging them not to be discouraged by setbacks or comparisons.
“There is a place for you in life,” he said. “Do not let anyone tell you that you are nobody.”
Reflecting on the role of schools, Bostic noted that the true measure of an institution lies not in trophies, but in the impact its students have on society. He also highlighted the need for stronger community involvement, suggesting that institutions such as churches should play a more active role in supporting surrounding communities.
Looking ahead, Bostic announced plans to introduce an annual, month-long programme under his patronage, showcasing cultural and creative works by schoolchildren across Barbados. The initiative, he explained, would provide a platform for students to display talents in areas such as the performing and industrial arts, while also creating opportunities for public engagement and economic benefit.
“If we start doing things like this, then I believe that we can really begin to address the problem,” he said, expressing hope that meaningful change could be seen within the next three to five years. While acknowledging that some challenges are beyond immediate control, he stressed the importance of early intervention to prevent young people from going astray, pointing to the positive influence of community mentors.
Supporting his message, the president’s aide-de-camp, Captain Tevin Maynard, reinforced the school’s guiding principle, urging students to embrace “pride in work well done” in everything they do.
Principal Colette Applewhaite welcomed the President and highlighted the school’s achievements, describing Grazettes Primary as a “family” strengthened by community support. She pointed to improvements in literacy and numeracy, alongside a growing list of extracurricular successes and programmes aimed at nurturing well-rounded students.
From robotics and athletics to performing arts and environmental initiatives, Applewhaite said the school remains committed to developing confident, creative and responsible individuals.
In a question-and-answer segment with the President, students wanted advice to give to their peers as it relates to violence, to get to know more about the President himself, and to understand the Head of State’s role.
The visit also featured cultural performances such as the singing of folk song ‘John Boulay’ by Class Three students, a poem called Proud by the drama group, and a song and dance by the dance troupe and choir, with assistance from the Pinelands Creative Workshop.
Head Boy Keshawn Ifill gifted the President a mahogany pen and a plant grown in the school’s garden.
The post President hails teachers’ dedication during school visit appeared first on Barbados Today.
