Vivien Vanterpool Primary School celebrated a major milestone this week as pupils moved into the newly completed classroom and information technology block.
The transition on Monday, 27 October, was described by the Government of Anguilla as one filled with “excitement, gratitude and pride”.
The bright and modern two-storey facility represents a significant step forward for the Island Harbour school, which has served generations of Anguillian students.
In a moment of reflection and thanksgiving, Pastor David Rollock of the First Baptist Church – and a proud parent at the school – offered a prayer of dedication for each classroom.
He asked for God’s blessings, protection and guidance for every student, teacher and lesson that will take place within the new walls.
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Following the blessing, teachers led students on a short tour of the campus, giving them the chance to explore their new surroundings and become familiar with the building’s layout.
Principal Estelle Laurent-Carter encouraged students to take pride in their new school, reminding them to respect the facilities and to walk with confidence, respect and ownership.
Just last week, the government demolished a one-storey beachfront teaching and information technology block at the school.
The building had become unsafe due to storm damage and severe damp, while regular buildups of decaying sargassum nearby created strong, toxic odours.
In a government video documenting the demolition on 22 October, infrastructure minister Jose Vanterpool described it as “the end of an era”.
Vivien Vanterpool Primary School was built in Island Harbour on the north east coast of Anguilla in 1971.
