The most current infrastructure development will take Cycle Two students from exploratory activities, through active and social play and on to challenging courses, as they use a playground designed for their developing needs. The Sint Maarten Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) School’s newest outdoor structure is among the tools which provide a wholistic educational environment for students.
On Friday, January 18, 2020, Sint Maarten government officials joined students, staff, parents and the School Board to officially open the new playground which was realized by funding from the Windsong International and Forsee Foundations.
The Minister of Government responsible for education, culture, youth and sports was proud to see the community coming together for projects like this and was satisfied by the age-appropriate possibilities of the structure.
In her remarks, Principal Clara George reiterated the value of Christian education, commended the funding agencies and other project stakeholders, then presented the playground to her students, “I know you have looked at the Cycle One playground and questioned when the day would arrive for you to also have one of your own. Cycle Two pupils, you now have your playground to enjoy.”
The Forsee Foundation was represented by Jose Sommers who was really happy to be a part of the project and said that she was impressed with the school and its staff. She congratulated the staff for doing an amazing job, as several staff members played a critical role in the selection of playground equipment.
The Education Director of the North Caribbean Conference, Mrs. Gerene Joseph, has been delighted by the progress taking place at schools around the Conference. She said, “Congratulations and best wishes to the administration and staff of the Sint Maarten SDA Primary. May you continue to go from strength to strength. Proud of you Principal George and the school.”
The Chairman of the School Board shared, “The children of the school deserve only the best, and that is exactly what this facility provides.”
The Sint Maarten SDA School is one of five primary/ elementary schools operated by the North Caribbean Conference and has an enrollment of 354 students. The teachers seek to help students reach their highest potential and fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. Student outcome is a significant guiding criterion to assess the health and effectiveness of the school – educators are treated with the utmost importance.