Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis: During the ceremony held on Wednesday, June 26 the Irish Town Primary School has been renamed officially. Marking it a historic milestone, looking at the long and distinguished history of the school, it has been given the name the Halliday-Smith Primary School.
This decision to rename the school came in light to honour the two influential figures that have served immensely at the school and now the school carries their name.
Maizee Halliday, a revolutionary educator and former principal, and the late Sylvia Smith, an inspirational and dedicated teacher.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of Education, Maizee Halliday, former principal and guest of honour and by several other dignitaries including Governor General, Dame Marcella Liburd, former MP for Central Basseterre, Permanent Secretary PS Lisa-Romayne Pistana, Chief Education Officer, Francil Morris, Education Officers and other education officials were also in attendance.
During the ceremony Dr. Geoffrey Hanley expressed gratitude and his happiness for being part of this historic event and meeting some of his students that he had the honour of teaching while he was at the Irish Town now the Halliday-Smith Primary School.
He further added that this ceremony is the beginning of many more as the government intends to honour our educators and community activists by renaming our educational institutions after them as a demonstration of appreciation for their service.
Dr. Hanley also informed the public that all the citizens are invited to share their recommendations with the authorities. The Halliday-Smith Primary School will now also become the Primary School of Modern Language and Music. Also, both the languages Spanish and Mandarin will be taught at the school.
Shenel Byron-Cassius, Principal of Irish Town Primary, stated that the decision was not taken lightly because of the respect the school has for its past while moving ahead. The name chosen reflects the values and aspirations the school follows.
Maizee Halliday, conveyed her sincere thanks to the Ministry of Education, and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis for bestowing upon the honour. Also, she wished the school the best and to continue to provide the best education and be the source of wisdom.
The renaming marks a new chapter for the school.
