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MORANT BAY HIGH SCHOOL
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M is for Morant Bay High School O is for opportunity -here we find R is for rules - by which we abide A is for ability - to work hard is our guide N is for nation - we are committed to build T is for talent - use it well, use it wisely B is for best A is for achievers Y is for yearning
- that you can be - many there are - to learn more and more
H is for humility I is for involvement G is for graduates H is for honesty
- the hallmark of our graduates - we hope to have - making our mark in society - the rules we must keep
S is for school C is for counsel H is for Highbury O is for office O is for obedience L is for learning
- where we’re fitted for life - wise ones we give - the site of our school - we take seriously - to that which is right - continues through life
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Made In Jamaica
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
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“As I reminisce on my years spent on Highbury Hill, the last of four siblings to attend this noble institution....”
In my capacity as Vice President of the Morant Bay High School Alumni Association (MBHSAA), I welcome you all to this our 2017 Homecoming Dinner and Dance. This reunion in our beloved parish is inked in the diaries of members of the alumni body, family, friends and sponsors, as we continue to contribute to its development. We believe in the parish of St Thomas and remain committed to the invaluable role the MBHSAA has to play going forward. As I reminisce on my years spent on Highbury Hill, the last of four siblings to attend this noble institution, the strong tradition and fulfilling experience molded me into the person I am today. This is true, I am certain, for many of you my fellow alumni. We are who we are primarily because of that beacon on the hill that overlooks the Caribbean Sea as it kisses Jamaica’s coastline. With all the recent developments, I consider it timely to draw your attention to a little bit of our parish’s history: human settlement in St. Thomas dates back to 650 AD when the Tainos reached our shores. In later years maroons arrived and, as you know, they played a major role in the Morant Bay Rebellion in 1865. Over time, through bravery, resilience and persistence, change
came to Jamaica, culminating in the structure of government we have today. Emboldened by this legacy, it is now time to renew and reinvigorate our alumni association. Our school and parish need a strong, vibrant association. The association needs you! We have existing plans to conclude – re-doing the entrance being the primary focus. We also have new ones to incubate. Let us all pull our motivation from our parish’s rich history of bold and decisive leadership and unite to make a difference at our alma mater. Persons who walked the halls of MBHS are making great strides in the global community today. We need you to join with us to innovate ways in which we can attract dedicated members and committed partners to work in the preservation of our beacon on the hill. This is even more urgent as the parish is slated for Government attention and development in the near future. The MBHSAA-Jamaica continues its commitment to provide the on-theground leadership and support as we partner with our overseas chapters to develop the school and parish we so deeply love. Carpe Diem Claudia D. White Vice President
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GREETINGS FROM
MBHSAA - NEW YORK
Homecoming 2017 is here and it is with pleasure that the Morant Bay High School Alumni, New York Chapter extends congratulations and well wishes to the Jamaica Alumni Association for such a joyous occasion. As you look forward to extend bonds on friendship and relationship through this gathering, there is renewed hope to continue with our individual but much greater our collective efforts of working together. There is the adage, the more things change, the more they stay the same. The hope is to always be progressing with our changing society, however, it’s also to preserve the moments of life such as a memorable high school experience that have students not only become alums, but faithful and committed individuals who will take a look back to pull someone forward. Collectively, as we look ahead, we
can begin to expand our thoughts and plans on bringing current and past students together that will not only enhance our school, but our community as a whole. Life with all it entails presents laughter and tears, triumphs and disillusionment. It’s a constant movement that even as one prepares as best they can, the unexpected always presents itself. For every child we can support through the highs and lows of life and our school that is a part of this journey is truly a win for all of us. So I look forward to chart this course. Take the time on this day, to celebrate old memories and friends. Congratulations on yet another year of moving forward and upward. Carpe Diem President MaureenThomas
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GREETINGS FROM
MBHSAA - ATLANTA
On behalf of our Morant Bay High School Alumni Association, Atlanta Chapter, I extend Congratulations to our Jamaica Chapter as it celebrates another year Anniversary. I am honored to serve in the capacity as President of our Association. The success of the Morant Bay High School Alumni Association, Atlanta Chapter and all the other affiliated Alumni will depend on the support of everyone working together with common goals for the betterment of MBHS and the community as a whole.
is with this thought in mind that I feel it necessary to extend special thanks to the executive committee for their tireless effort and unselfish commitment to your association. In addition, there are numerous non-executive members, and individuals who have also contributed and continue to contribute. Let us continue doing what we do with greater effort and enthusiasm. I look forward with anticipation for a much higher level of success in our associations’ future endeavors.
The Morant Bay High School Alumni Association, Atlanta Chapter and I are The work that we do and the support committed to working with you all. we give to each alumni association is a Carpe Diem! labor of love. Sometimes it seems so difficult to carry on because there are Dr. D. Terrence Foster so few people that are willing and able President to make that commitment necessary MBHS Alumni Association Atlanta Chapter for the success of the association. It
GREETINGS FROM
MBHSAA - TORONTO Reflections. Reunions. Gatherings. Homecoming, Milestones. Distinguished Guests, and by this I mean everyone in attendance tonight. Welcome to another Spectacular Homecoming celebrations. Equally so, thanks to the Visionaries who launched this chapter of the Morant Bay High School Alumni Associations. This is an exceptional and extraordinary celebration where the fun never stops with the day time activities and Grand Finale in the night. Tonight, with beaming pride, supporters can “seize the moment” to reflect on their interest in Morant Bay High School and their loyalty to MBHSAAJamaica. To the Executive Committee I say, take a bow. You have all answered the call to stage this event again. There are many persons who have served before and moved on, let us laud their efforts because they made their contributions and allowed for the growth and success of this organization. Everyone’s contribution, however, great or small has impacted the lives of those who walk the Halls of this phenomenal institution in Eastern St. Thomas, Jamaica.
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the sacrifice?” By the looks of the success that the school is experiencing with external examinations, doubts have to be quelled and ignite the urge to continue supporting. Upon observation, the most successful schools in Jamaica, invariably, they are supported and backed by strong alumni entities. As we continue to grow as Associations, we will be better able to deal with issues that will further ensure that “The Morant Bay High” will be the number one High school of choice for all who seek Secondary education. Your dedication will ensure that the institution will churn out the most successful and well-rounded students who will impact the Global community.
From us in the true North, we implore everyone to keep doing their part and be an inspiration to the other chapters. However, remember that in all this “social synergy” is a vital ingredient. In the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” That small group of people After all, this Homecoming celebration happens to be you, happens to be us, is indicative of a successful association and happens to be the supporters. that demonstrates through unity of Keep up the awesome work. purpose their absolute commitment to our Alma Mater. When you look around I am extremely privileged and honoured the world and identify fellow alumnus to be a part of the dynamic MBHSAA who continue to make indelible family. Thanks to those who serve, contributions to society, the organization those who have served and supported. has to be proud and feel encouraged to Enjoy the celebrations. continue the great work. Sometimes it’s not easy to stay the charted course, Rupert L. Edwards (Pud) ”85” when on a daily basis there are so President MBHSAA-Toronto many things happening to make you question yourselves “is it really worth
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CITATION FOR
MOHAN KUMAR
Mr Kumar’s sojourn at Morant Bay High School lasted twenty-eight years, 1987-2015 where he held several positions. In recognition of his teaching acumen and astute approach to different disciplines of the teaching profession, he was appointed to the position of Senior Teacher with responsibility for the Supervision of the Fifth and Sixth forms. Later, he was promoted to the position of Head of the English Department. Mr. Kumar simultaneously served as a Tutor of English for the trainee teachers pursuing Undergraduate studies at The University of the West Indies, Distance Education Programme. Another hallmark of Mr. Kumar’s career was his involvement with the EXED Community College, Morant Bay Campus where, for over a decade, he served as the Co-ordinator for the Evening Institute. People of all age groups in St. Thomas and its neighbouring communities have greatly benefited by attending CSEC, CAPE
level and Business Administration classes. Mr. Kumar was also very instrumental in recruiting fellow nationals to bolster Jamaica’s cadre of teachers in the key areas of Mathematics, Sciences and English at both the High School and Tertiary levels. After serving in the capacity of Vice Principal at The Morant Bay High School, Mr. Kumar ultimately became the Principal of the institution. Under his expert leadership, the school continued its tradition of excellent performance at both the CSEC and the CAPE Levels. Mr. Kumar was an excellent administrator who initiated the School Improvement Plan that resulted in major achievements in the co-curricular activities which have brought much acclaim. During his tenure as Principal, M.B.H.S. not only became the top school in Region 2, of the Ministry of Education; but in 2014 Educate Jamaica, ranked the school 14th in the entire Island based on the excellent CSEC performance. This blend of hard work, sound leadership and
vision has marked his contributions to the development of all the Educational Institutions that he has served with such distinction. As an educator, Mr. Kumar’s perceptiveness and administrative skills transcended all boundaries; positively transforming the lives of the younger generation under his
charge in his quiet but effective manner.
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The Morant Bay High School Alumni thank him for his meritorious service, his guidance and inspiration to the young minds at our beloved Alma Mater.
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DINNER
MENU
Starter
White Hall Red Peas Puree With Old Pera Garlic Bread Salad
Winchester Crispy Green with Vinaigrette Dressing EntrĂŠe
Airy Castle Balsamic-Mango Marinated Grilled Chicken Epping Farm Pan-Seared Fish Fillet with Cilantro-Celery Beacon Hill Garlic & Herb Crusted Roasted Beef Barking Lodge Rice & Peas Easington Potato Salad Dessert
Woburn Lawn Fruit Cake with rum sauce Botany Bay Bread Pudding
DINNER
PROGRAMME
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Master of Ceremonies Gene M. Douglas Welcome & Opening Remarks National Anthem Invocation Rev. Karleen Brown-Wanliss Dinner Entertainment Audley Searchwell & friends President’s message: Claudia White – VP Presentation to Honouree – Mohan Kumar: Myrtle Halsall Decade Roll Call Brian James Drawing of Gate Prize Vote of Thanks Janet Johnson Closing Remarks School Hymn Dance EPIK Intl.
************************************************ Tomorrow: Sunday 26 November 2017 Church service at 9:00 a.m. Little Coke Methodist Church
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1961 ROLL CALL FIRST SET OF STUDENTS
Abrahams, Dorrett Anderson, Martha Anglin, Winston Bailey, Gwendolyn Blake, Keith Blount Beresford Bogle, Joy Brown, Phyllis Cain, Delroy Campbell, Norvall Clarke, Donovan Connell, Richard Cummings, Eleanor Dacres, Clover Dunbar, Trevor Edman, Michael Foxton, Trevor Gayle, Prudence Golding, Marcia Grant, Hyacinth Grant, Samuel Greaves, Hugh Gray, Byron Hanson, Marjorie Hibert, Lois Irving, Donald Kelly, Earl Lee, Valerie Malcolm, Trevor Marshall, Valerie Maxwell, Carl McFarlane, Lloyd McKen, Joan McPherson, Ceva
Miller, Yalverton Morgan, Euclin Morrison, Dorothy Murray, Cecile Nation, Janice Outar, Vivienne Peart, Angelita Pinnock, Beverley Silvera, Ethel Smalling, Donald Smellie, Dennis Spencer, Radcliffe Stephenson, Beulah Stone, Hector Taylor, Edrich Thomas, Margaret Thompson, Carl Walcott, Dorothy Welsh, Cynthia (deceased) White, Sybil Whittle, Delrose Wilson, Avis Wilson, Lincoln Wilson, Romeniah Young, Barrington LATE INTAKE OF STUDENTS Bogle, Bentley Matalon, David Newsome, Winsome Stewart, Rose-Marie Thomas, Veronica
UNIFORMS
THROUGH THE YEARS – MBHS
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1961 - The female uniform consisted of green and white gingham shirt dress with four gore skirt green beret with a star in the middle, black shoes and white socks. Male uniform was green khaki shirt and short pants, brown shoes and knee high socks held in place by garters and green and white epaulets. 1962 - The female uniform consisted of green and white gingham pleated skirt dress, green beret with a star in the middle, black shoes and white socks. Male uniform was green khaki shirt and short brown pants, brown shoes and knee high socks held in place by garters and green and white epaulets. 1965 - The female uniform was a green and white stripe (Forms 1-3 with square neck and Forms 4-5 with round neck) dress long with the “jippy jappa” hats. Male uniform – green khaki shirt and short pants, brown shoes and knee high socks held in place by garters. Senior boys wore khaki shirt and long pans with brown socks and brown shoes. 1967 - The female uniform was changed to a solid green pleated tunic with white blouse, cream ‘jippy jappa’ hat with green and white ribbons, white socks and black shoes. Prefect wore green pleated skirt and white blouse. Male uniform Forms 1-3 wore khaki shirt and short pants, brown shoes and knee-high socks held in place by garters. Early 70s - The re-introduction of the green plaid uniform (the mini version), black shoes and white socks. At the time the dominant hairstyle was the ‘afro’ and so the ‘jippy jappa’ hat was retired. The male uniform remained the same as the late sixties. 1975 to now - The green full tunic without pleats, white blouse, black shoes and white socks were introduced and has been the uniform until now – they are worn longer now. Short pants were outlawed for the male. Khaki shirt and Long pants was king of the Highbury Hill.
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MBHS SCHOOL HYMN LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Light of the world, from whom all truth proceeding, Dawns on each heart that humbly seeks thy face, Lowly we wait on Thee, and Thine hand leading Follow Thy guidance to Thy holy place. In Thee, O Lord had all things their beginning In Thee, at last, shall all things find their end, Thou knowest all; and we our knowledge winning, By Thee alone its widening bounds extend How marvelous the wonders thou hast taught us, And still dost teach us each succeeding day, From darkness into light Thine hand has brought us, To fuller light directed all our way. Not our’s to know all truth, there lie around us, Unmeasured heights above and depths below, Thee would we know, Thy love which sought and found us, Shall teach all else ‘tis meet that we should know. Though dark the path before us brightly burning Thy lamp lights up our footsteps through the night From thee we came and unto thee returning Light of the world we find in thee our light
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MBHSAA
MEMORIES
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TROPHIES . CUSTOMIZED AWARDS . PLAQUES .
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NATIONAL ANTHEM
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Eternal Father bless our land, Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand, Keep us free from evil powers, Be our light through countless hours. To our Leaders, Great Defender, Grant true wisdom from above. Justice, Truth be ours forever, Jamaica, Land we love. Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love. Teach us true respect for all, Stir response to duty’s call, strengthen us the weak to cherish, Give us vision lest we perish. Knowledge send us Heavenly Father, Grant true wisdom from above. Justice, Truth be ours forever, Jamaica, land we love. Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
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MBHSAA ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The MBHSAA wishes to thank all the sponsors for their invaluable support throughout the years. All sponsors within the pages of this booklet are recognized for the contributions in various forms to the 2017 Homecoming activities. In addition, the MBHSAA wishes to acknowledge the support of the following who have also contributed: Island Laparoscopy Audley Searchwell & friends Seymour Park Pharmacy D&D Tyre Sales Easy Transportation Bank of Jamaica Rubis Liguanea The Dentist One Touch J-Care Medical Craft Wicker & Things Ltd MailPac Sister’s Ink Tropishades Unipet Seaforth HDB Man & Dist Howard Jackson Looking forward to 2018 and beyond!
Homecoming Planning Committee
Odvar Donald Gene M. Douglas Myrtle Halsall Emerson Henry Janet Johnson Claudia White
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Morant Bay High School Alumni Association www.facebook.com/Morant.Bay.High.School.Alumni.Association/ email: mbhsaa.email@gmail.com