“If you need to put anyone on a gold pedestal put Teachers. They are Society’s Heroes. “Guy Kawasaki. Yes, that was the theme that played through my mind. It was a distinct honour to express my profound gratitude and appreciation to the incredible staff of Dominica Grammar School ,under the phenomenal leadership of former Principal ,Ms. Alicia Jean-Jacques. A special congratulations to the 15 teachers who played an instrumental role in me successfully capturing the CXC CCSLC Regional Top Female Performer Award 2021.Their ingenuity, investment and commitment in ensuring that I excelled beyond measures, is admirable and must be commended. The truth of the matter is, that there would be absolutely no Tana without the solid foundation, the incredible teachers of the Dominica Grammar School gave me .I am greatly humbled and I owe every ounce of success to the Dominica Grammar School. Today, I am thrilled that I can just Google Tana and I will see the articles of local, regional and international about my major accomplishments.

I remember it like it was yesterday when my mum went to the Ministry of Education to ensure that my name was on the Dominica Grammar School list. I stand proudly to say that it was the best decision. Unfortunately, many criticized and questioned why an all A Scholarship student would purposefully choose the Dominica Grammar School as my school of choice . Here is the answer! This right there is the proof is in the pudding. I have never regretted a day spent at the Dominica Grammar School. My incredible teachers gave me wings to fly and to be who I am today .

I can still hear my Principal’s voice clearly, after I was chosen for the prestigious position of Student of the Year, “Make sure you come back and support your school.” These sentimental words has stuck with me. Ms. Alicia Jean – Jacques, I hope I continue to make you proud. I believe words have power and we should always use it for the edification of others. I am back! I recall my mum telling me about two of my beloved teachers, teasing her about when it’s my graduation, that she should come with a truck to pick up my awards. Two years later at my graduation, I successfully captured 12 awards, inclusive of the Principal’s Award for Initiative, Discipline and Excellent School Spirit, The PTA Award for Academic Achievement and the Subject Prize for Mathematics .

I firmly believe that I have broken the glass ceiling at t the Dominica Grammar School. I will continue to use my exceptional academic success stories to inspire and motivate my fellow students to break the shackles of Fear , Intimidation and Self doubt. My success is a testament that the Dominica Grammar School continues to produce remarkable young men and women. To the Principal ,Vice Principals, Heads of Departments, teachers ,secretary, cleaners security officers and messengers, I salute you. I can confidently say that team work definitely makes the dream work. I owe every ounce of my success to these incredible teachers. I am super elated that I could reward you with tokens of my sincere appreciation and gratitude. Congratulations Teachers and GOD bless you abundantly.

I remember when I stepped out of my comfort zone to present my self as a candidate for the head girl. By nature, I am a doer and not so much a public speaker. I was petrified but thanks to the super amazing students, especially the first and second formers, they placed great confidence in me as their student leader. The night before the election , I was truly inspired when they told me that whether I win or not that I would still be their Head girl . I was honored to be the Deputy Head girl. I was thrilled because I was awarded the opportunity to continue to inspire my fellow students.

One of the many promises I made on my campaign, was that I would I do everything in my capacity to ensure that students make the Principal Honor Roll .Today, I am beyond thrilled that I have delivered on my promise. Casier Cadette, 2022 DGS Co Valedictorian and Yan Gregroire, Salutatorian can attest to that. A special Congratulations to them. It was with this in mind, I was motivated to celebrate and honor their hard work with special prizes today. I am exhilarated that one of Dominica’s phenomenal professionals, Dr. Thomson Fontaine selflessly donated the top five Awards. A special thank you to HP Studio for donating the five certificates. Congratulations to the five deserving students on their great accomplishments.

Outstanding Student(2nd form) – Mehndi Charles
Excellent School Spirit(3rd form)- Kishma Theophile
Exemplary Conduct and Deportment (1st form) – Rene Talbert
Exemplary Leadership (4th form) – Thea Blondel
Most Improved Student Striving for Academic Excellence (4th form)- Abigail Toussaint

Special Subject Prizes were given

Physical Education and Sports (Cricket) Donated by Dominica’s Cricket Star Mr. Adam
Sanford -Newton Valmond

Excellence in Mathematics- Donated by Mrs. Jessica Stedman -Brennon Esprit

Artistic Excellence in Visual Arts -Donated by Artist ,Mr. Aaron Hamilton-Elianette Jolly

Token of Appreciation was presented to Mrs. Dorcus Francis-Simon for her dedication to the Bible Club, donated by Pastor Vaughn Vigilante. I am convinced that putting GOD first in every aspect of our lives will produce extraordinary results.

I am very honored and grateful to my amazing parents, especially my Mom, Yvette Charles ,for championing this worthy cause .A heartfelt thank you to my Primary School French Teacher , Mrs .Elisa Matthew, Ms. Donella Riviere, Manager of Print City for donating the certificate to the School, Mr.Roberts, Mr. Hezron Seraphin , Claudette Webster and others too numerous to mention. I would like to take this incredible opportunity to urge DGS Past students and parents to continue to support the school in order to achieve great success. Remember the seeds you plant today will benefit the new generation.

I feel accomplished that I have successfully executed my Head girl’s Mission Statement, “Leading with Excellence interlaced with Humility.” GOD bless Dominica. To GOD be the glory great things he has done.