Ellerslie marks 51st anniversary

“DO not be like the people of Israel, and spend your time forgetting and then complaining as the current habit of some.”

This was the overall message of Reverend Dr. Von E. Watson during his sermon at the Ellerslie Secondary School’s 51st Anniversary Thanksgiving Service at the St. Stephen’s Church on Sunday. Making reference to the Book of Exodus where the Israelites complained to Moses, Reverend Watson said the school can do better, and encouraged the institution to lead the way. He noted the history of the school and its site which was once a plantation, highlighting the transition from a work area for slaves and workers to students.

“I want to suggest that when Ellerslie school took up that plantation site, on our Independence, it was not a transformation that took place but a transfiguration which took place... The great glory of God, the liberator became evident in the shining light of education for every descendant of the slaves and the slave workers,” said Rev. Watson.

Principal of the Ellerslie Secondary School, Lt. Col. Errol Brathwaite, during his brief remarks, said that the school should embrace what they have achieved, must promote their students, continue to promote student learning and not rest on their laurels.

“We at Ellerslie have for 51 years been focusing on developing not just the education of our students, but in building strength of character,” said Lt. Col. Brathwaite.