Saving Lives, Now Moulding Minds

The Tuesday, 14 December, official opening was delayed but appropriately festive and celebratory—a vivid contrast to recent weeks when the spanking new model Prospect Primary School sheltered people who lost homes during Hurricane Ivan.

Its little place in history began in early September when, after only three days of classes, the school’s brand new principal, Michael Walker, received a letter from Chief Education Officer Nyda Flatley. The CEO advised him to board up the building, move furniture away from windows and prepare to become a hurricane shelter.

“After all the preparations were made, the school opened its doors to more than 800 people who sought shelter from the coming storm, myself included,” said Mr. Walker.

As a purpose-built education and hurricane shelter, the school proved its worth in the days to come: It withstood the fury of the hurricane with little damage and afterwards, classrooms became bedrooms providing residents of the Pines Retirement Home with a welcome refuge.

Addressing parents, teachers and students at the opening ceremony Minister of Education the Hon. Roy Bodden said the occasion represents the beginning of great things in Cayman’s education establishment: “Prospect Primary was built as a model school; it served as a model hurricane shelter, and will now become a model for construction standards in the future.”

Mrs. Flatley noted that it was inspiring to see students learn in a purpose-built facility and she praised the work of parents and teachers: “It is not only the structure of the school that is exceptional, but also the climate of cooperation and sharing of expertise.”

Prospect Primary School currently has 266 students. The catchment area for the school will extend from the Achievement Centre in Red Bay, up to Spotts/Newlands.

The school has admitted approximately 50 students to years One and Two, respectively and to facilitate construction work at George Town Primary School, Years Three and Four students from there have also been transferred to Prospect Primary.

His Excellency the Governor Mr. Bruce Dinwiddy (L) and the Hon. Minister of Education Roy Bodden unveil the plaque at Prospect Primary School.