As we salute our Principal, Mrs. Peart some of the words which come to mind in relation to her are insightful, resourceful, firm, dignified, endearing and resilient. Mrs. Peart became Principal at Papine High School in 1991 and her eighteen years have been productive ones even against the background of significant challenges. She believes that her appointment as Principal was the result of God’s leading and not simply a matter of chance. She spent her earlier years at St. Elizabeth Technical High School where she taught Science.
Mrs. Peart has been at Papine has been at Papine High School since 1976 where she moved up the ranks from class teacher to grade supervisor to Grade 10 and 11 coordinator to vice principal and now principal. She embarked on further studies at the University of the West Indies where she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a master’s degree in Education. She also holds a Diploma in Youth Development from the University of Guyana.
Some of the outstanding achievements for which the Papine High School family is proud were effected or facilitated by Mrs. Peart such as:
The introduction of the performing Arts Department
The resurfacing of the play field
The acquisition of the school bus
The well being of the school is very dear to Mrs. Peart, especially since she sees teaching as a special and extraordinary profession which can have a significant impact on both teachers and students alike. Some of the goals which have guided her administration are the desire to improve the academic performance of the students, to see children operate at a more discipline level in terms of behavior and school work, to help students to embrace sound values and attitudes, to see the children perceive as special and to excel in their career choices.
In the midst of the positive happenings, there are serious challenges for Mrs. Peart as she directs the school. Some of these challenges are the shift system which gives rise to the limited opportunities for students and staff and which also affects extra-curricular activities.
The physical facilities have now become too small for the growing school population and the financial resources are limited.
Mrs. Peart said that wisdom has taught her to come up with creative ideas such as extended-day classes within the shift, using initiatives to utilize limited facilities. As it relates to curriculum activities, trainings are held on Saturdays and during school. Students on the morning shift train after school and students on the afternoon shift train before school begins.
On relaxation…Mrs. Peart enjoys watching T.V., spending time with her family, going to plays and family functions. She also enjoys doing voluntary work with the Lions Club, church, The Principals Association and The Shady Grove Early Childhood Institution. She has managed to maintain a good balance between work and recreation and it is quite evident that she is fighting a good fight and is keeping the faith. She encourages her wonderful teachers to continue in their path of growth and development and to stay focused and not get distracted by the negatives and stigma of teaching in an upgraded high school. She has always displayed a warm, caring regard for all the students encouraging them not to limit their potential for learning, whatever the task that is set before them, they must do it to the best of their ability and always find time to give service to others.
The entire Papine High School family salutes Mrs. Peart and is grateful for the eighteen years of positive leadership which she has given,
Mrs. Peart, WE SALUTE YOU!
