The Barrouallie Secondary School (BSS) celebrated 45 years as an educational institution on Jan. 11. The school was founded on the Jan. 11, 1971. Its inaugural principal was George Bailey, who served from 1971 to 1978.
In commemorating this milestone, the principal, staff, students and past students held a thanksgiving church service at the St. Patrick Anglican Church in Barrouallie.
The theme of the celebration was “Continuing to Strive at 45”. Welcome remarks were given by principal Dora James. A brief history was shared by Kathleen Jeffers, past student and counselor at BSS.
Remarks were also made by area representative and Deputy Prime Minister Sir Louis Straker, who congratulated the institution on its achievement. Special songs were done by past students and local gospel singers Ronnie Richardson and Kyoka Cruickshank-Jack.
The featured address came from Reverend Dr. Elsworth Neale, a past student. He delivered the sermon and challenged the institution on theme “Continue to Strive at 45”. His text was taken from Philippians 3.
He encouraged the packed audience that in continuing to strive the institution must: work on the power of performance, work on attitude to improve and let go of past negative influences.
The service was followed by a social activity at the newly constructed BSS located in Peter’s Hope. The celebrations will continue for the next six months.