On June 25th, International
School St. Lucia will celebrate a special graduation. In only three years, ISSL has produced its first
graduate, Anna Vlugman. She will throw her mortarboard into the air to celebrate her double diploma from
the New Brunswick Department of Education and the International School St. Lucia.
Anna Vlugman joined the school in its first year,
being the most advanced student taken on by the new school in 2006. She has since worked
hard through grades 10, 11 and 12 and is now the first to graduate from the school. She has been accepted
to the prestigious University of Limerick in Ireland, looking toward a career based on a Bachelor of Science and Equine Science
degrees.
The school began with
24 students, and has flourished. Enrolment for September 2009 is set at over 140. It
is for now spread over the top floor of Julian’s and has expanded into the top floor of the Valmont building behind.
Starting with only 2 teachers, it will employ 19 staff in September, including a combination of local and international
highly qualified teachers. ISSL offers programs for students 5 – 18 years of age.
New programs are adding to the excitement – a physical
education credit for sailing is arousing interest for students aged 14 – 16. French, Spanish and
instrumental music are part of the program. A boarding facility is planned, as more students are coming
to ISSL for education that normally would have to be accessed in Canada, United States and the U.K. Two
students from Canouan have joined the student body already, seeing the cost effective alternative to boarding further abroad
and the quality of the school. Gifted and creative young students find a school that encourages their talents.
On June 25, 124 students will be celebrated
– each passing on the stage with words of praise and recognition from their teachers. Awards will
be given for academic achievement, leadership, and citizenship. International School students will celebrate
their achievements over three years: A Governor General’s Award for Jr. Achievement,
2 Secondary Swimming Championships, participation in RBTT Young Leaders Projects, and constant support of art displays,
poster and writing contests, and involvement with the School of Music.
