[Written by Anya Thompson]

On April 27, 2024, the CedarBridge Mathematics Department, under the leadership of Instructional Leader Ms. Keshia Henry and in collaboration with community partner Bermuda International Long Term Insurers and Reinsurers [BILTIR], concluded the final session of their annual IGCSE Mathematics exam preparation classes. The program started during the week of February 5, 2024, and included weekly classes held every Wednesday after school. Additionally, marathon sessions were conducted on April 20 and 27, from 10 am to 2 pm. These Saturday sessions were supported by math instructors, BILTIR volunteers, parents, and the S3 Year Head.

Instructional Leader Henry clarified that the sessions aim to assist students from S1 to S4 in their exam readiness. She noted that while students typically take the exam during their S2 year, the department’s objective is to accommodate the diverse needs of all students. Hence, these classes are offered to students with the potential to undertake the exam in S1 and to provide those in S3 and S4 the opportunity for exam retakes. Additionally, she expressed optimism for further progress this year, building upon the previous year’s success.

Mrs. Shoa Wolfe, the S3 Year Head at CedarBridge Academy, expressed her gratitude for the math tutorials offered to the IGCSE students. She said, “The Wednesday and Saturday sessions have proven incredibly beneficial for our students”.

She further stated that the initiative to partner with the CBA Parent Teacher Student Association [PTSA] to provide lunch and snacks during the Saturday sessions was particularly thoughtful and appreciated. This support not only encouraged attendance but also created a conducive learning environment.

Moreover, she elaborated that the tutorials have significantly boosted students’ confidence, which is crucial for success in the upcoming IGCSE examinations. The dedication and effort of the CBA Mathematics Department in organizing and promoting these sessions are commendable.

On behalf of the students and the S3 team, Year Head Mrs. Shoa Wolfe, sincerely thank Ms. Keshia Henry and the Math department for the outstanding initiative. She looks forward to continued collaboration and support in the future.

Donation of Scientific Calculators

In addition to their commitment to volunteerism, BILTIR, in collaboration with EY Bermuda Ltd., generously donated 45 scientific calculators to the Mathematics Department. Ms. K. Henry, Instructional Leader, conveyed profound appreciation for this donation, emphasizing its significance in ensuring every student had access to the necessary tools for their IGCSE math exams. She highlighted the invaluable role of collaborating with community partners in fostering student growth and social change within the academic community. Ms. Henry welcomed their continued support and expressed eagerness for ongoing collaboration in the future.

Instructional leader Ms. Keshia Henry extends her gratitude to teachers Ms. Faith Dixon, Mr. Kirk Edwards, and Mr. Oranthus Turner, as well as the BILTIR team led by Matt McPhail, Principal Kenneth Caesaer, Year Head Shoa Wolfe, and members of the PTSA for their continued support and commitment to CBA students and the IGCSE math exam preparation program.

Mr. Jaison Hinshaw, Mr. Craig Munden, Ms. Teree Tucker, ILMs. Keshia Henry, and Principal Kenneth Caesar. Photo courtesy of S4 student Ms. Kiara Dill

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Premier David Burt congratulated the Bermuda College class of 2024.

Premier David Burt said, “Congratulations to the Class of 2024! Today marks the successful culmination of your hard work, sacrifice, and diligence. You have been rewarded for the late nights of studying and sacrificing time with your family, friends, and leisure activities. Today, you see the conclusion of one stage in your life and the start of a new one.

“To those of you who will continue your educational journey. We wish you much success. Thanks to the outstanding teaching you have received at the Bermuda College, you have the foundation and the tools for whatever path you decide to take in the coming years. We know you will do well and carry the proud academic legacy and history of the Bermuda College with you.

“To those of you who will be entering or re-entering the workforce, you have positioned yourself to advance in your career or are well-placed to compete for new jobs and opportunities in our economy. In Bermuda, we see an economy that is growing, diversifying, and providing jobs while unemployment is decreasing.

“As you leave these halls of academia, we want you to know that your government seeks to protect your existing job and entrepreneurial opportunities in Bermuda while creating new ones. We have implemented our Youth Employment Strategy to facilitate greater employment opportunities for all young Bermudians between 18 and 26 years of age; worked with international businesses to increase internships; and introduced the Graduate Trainee Programme through the Department of Workforce Development, providing coaching and employability skills training.

“The Government knows that there is more work to be done. We face significant challenges locally and globally. However, amid those challenges, we also have many opportunities and reasons to hope for the future. As you progress in your education and career, we will continue to work to ensure you have renewed optimism about the opportunities available here in Bermuda.

“Today, we celebrate your achievement and wish you well in your future endeavours. You are strong, educated Bermudians who have demonstrated the will and the ability to succeed through your academic success. Your Government seeks to see your sacrifice rewarded and for you to see and be able to take advantage of all that Bermuda has to offer today and in the future.

“Congratulations, Class of 2024. You represent our future, our hopes, and our dreams, and I know that you will continue to make us very proud.”

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The Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, Sen Owen Darrell held a press conference this morning [May 16] to update the public on the Government’s Summer Day Camp Programmes.

Minister Darrell said, “Good morning, Members of the Media and everyone joining us here today at Strokes in the City, Art Studio on Parliament Street.

“Thank you for being here as I present an important update on the Summer Day Camp registration process. Let me begin by providing you with some background information on the Government’s Summer Day Camp Programmes.

“The Department of Sport and Recreation has provided the Government’s Summer Day Camp Programmes each summer break for preschool, primary, and middle school-age students for over 50 years. To facilitate these programmes the Department works in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Works, Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Health to ensure that the necessary facilities are secured, and health guidelines are met.

“The department wants to note that each year, on registration day, the Department sells out of the allocated spots within minutes of the online platform opening. In 2023, our enrolment after registration was 490 students, with a waitlist of 511 students. The Department is accustomed to these waitlist numbers as our programmes are extremely popular and notably economical for families at $60/week. On average, most private camps can start at $150/week, and some run as high as $350/week for parents.

“As we approach the end of the school year, parents who cannot afford the private camps will be stressed to find placement for their children. This often leads to children being left home alone or in inadequate conditions. To this point, the Department wants to inform you of improvements in the Government’s Summer Day Camp Programme and the steps taken to alleviate the stress of parents seeking safe, affordable summer services for their children.

“During the post-mortem of the 2023 Summer Day Camp Program, it was concluded that partnering with private camp operators and offering programs at an affordable cost to parents was the proactive solution to increase camper enrolment and significantly alleviate the waitlist. This initiative was presented and approved, and the necessary budget was allocated for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, giving hope to parents and children alike.

“On 14th May 2024, I released Camp Connect on the Sport and Recreation website, www.sportsandrec.bm . Through this user-friendly, interactive portal, the reality of these partnerships with private educational and recreational groups has come to life. Camp Connect is your go-to hub for parents seeking comprehensive information on our summer camps and streamlined registration process.

“The Government has been able to:

• “Increase Capacity: An additional 850 spots are available over the summer break for more children to attend these camps.
• “Extend Camp Duration: Camps will be available between July 1 and September 6, 2024. The duration will vary between camps, so visit the website for availability.
• “Expand Variety: A broad selection of camp types is now available, ensuring diverse and dynamic experiences. Users can navigate by category of interest or by the zone of the island they live in.

“On Monday, May 20th, 2024, at 9:30 AM, the registration link for Camp Connect will go live. All camps on the portal will remain at last year’s rate of $60 per week per child. Online payments can only be made once registration is approved. Parents and guardians are encouraged to register online by visiting www.sportsandrec.bm, learn more about each camp, and decide which experiences they want their child to enjoy this summer.

“Camp Connect ensures parents planning their child’s summer adventures is convenient and hassle-free. So, we encourage everyone to visit our website at www.sportsandrec.bm before registration on Monday to learn more about each camp and decide which experiences they would like their child to enjoy this summer.

“Thank you.”

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This summer, the Bermuda Cricket Board will host Camryn Tyrrell and Owen Botelho as interns through the Department of Workforce Development.

In providing information about herself, Ms. Tyrrell said, “I go to Barry University in Miami, Florida, and I am majoring in Television and Digital Media with a minor in Dance.

“I am a creative person who enjoys video editing and graphic design. The internship at BCB is a great fit for me because I want to get more into the digital media side of my major and create more social media content.

“I am excited to use my knowledge in the workplace and learn many new things from my supervisors and fellow intern. I do not have any specific expectations for this internship as I am going in with an open mind, but I am grateful for having the opportunity to make new connections in Bermuda and improve my craft throughout the summer.”

Mr. Botelho said, “For the summer of 2024 I, Owen Botelho will be interning at the Bermuda Cricket Board. I am currently studying sports management in England and playing football for my university team where we play against other universities and participate in a men’s league.

“I chose this programme so that they can place me in an area of interest for me because it could be hard for me to find a job especially in the sports world in Bermuda. However, I feel they did an excellent choice in choosing interning at the Bermuda Cricket Board.

“I feel it offers me insight and experience into my area of study in the real-world work environments of my degree. Cricket is also something I enjoy, and I knew a bit of knowledge beforehand, so I was excited to start. Some of my expectations for this internship is to showcase my abilities and to understand roles and benefits in a sport’s work environment.”

Calvin Blankendal, BCB Executive Director, said: “We are pleased to have Camryn and Owen join us as interns through the Department of Workforce Development. This is the third year the Bermuda Cricket Board has partnered with the department on this programme with much success.

“Each year the interns provide valuable insight and excellent administrative assistance during the busiest time of the year for our organisation. We look forward to offering them a broad range of opportunities, to enhance their professional development during the next ten weeks.”

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The Ministry of Education has congratulated CedarBridge Academy students, also known as team OreoCookies, for their outstanding victory in the annual KPMG Senior School Investment Challenge.

A spokesperson said, “CedarBridge soared to the top, clinching first place in the esteemed 19th Annual KPMG Challenge. This year, students participated in 21 teams from 9 schools, boasting over 85 students engaged in the virtual fund mock trading and investments.

CedarBridge Team Ores Cookies, DeKeda Gilbert, Azzi Wolffe, Chelsea Minors, Elmico Hayward-DeShields, Minister Diallo Rabain and KPMG CEO James Berry.

“For nearly two decades, KPMG’s Senior School Investment Challenge has opened the world of finance and investment for countless students across public and private senior schools. KPMG has played an instrumental role in shaping the futures of our students, providing invaluable resources such as funding, mentorship, high-level insight, and real-world experience and career opportunities in the investment industry,” remarked the Minister of Education, Diallo Rabain.

Minister Rabain and James Berry and the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place winners.

Minister Rabain continued, “Congratulations to all the students who immersed themselves in this Challenge, “Your teamwork, determination, and pursuit of knowledge are commendable. Congratulations on believing in yourselves and pursuing your aspirations with enthusiasm. Congratulations to CedarBridge Academy [OreoCookies] for their remarkable achievement and exemplary performance in the KPMG Senior School Investment Challenge.”

The Government spokesperson said, “In this prestigious competition, each school can enter a maximum of two teams annually, each receiving BD$100,000 in virtual funds to navigate the market over six months. Notably, the cash prizes for the top three positions are $10,000 for 1st place, $6,000 for 2nd place, and $4,000 for 3rd place. The schools will utilize these funds for various educational initiatives.

Guest speaker, Craig Bridgewater; CBA Principal, Kenneth Caesar; CBA Teacher, LaToya Francis; DeKeda Gilbert; Azzi Wolffe; Chelsea Minors; Elmico Hayward-DeShield; Sihle’ Sharrieff-Hayward, Staff Accountant/Mentor/CBA Alumna; Education Minister Diallo Rabai; Felicia Wilsen, Partner, KPMG Enterprise and Chair of the Lift Off Program, and KPMG CEO James Berry.

“This year’s winners are: 1st – CedarBridge Academy [OreoCookies], 2nd – MSA [WallStreet Saints] and 3rd – Somersfield Academy [Profit_Pioneers].”

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The Department for National Drug Control [DNDC] is focusing on the island’s senior schools during National Prevention Week 2024.

A Government spokesperson said, “The Department for National Drug Control, under the auspices of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, will be observing this week as National Prevention Week.

“The National Prevention Week 2024 theme ‘A Celebration of Possibility’ is about communities coming together to celebrate the possibilities and brighter futures that exist thanks to the ongoing work of prevention in Bermuda.

“Last month, the DNDC Research Officer reported in the National School Survey 2023 of middle and senior school students that the current use of substances was most prevalent among older students.

“Current alcohol use for all respondents among all substances ranges from a low of 3.7% among M2 students to a high of 26.0% among S4 students; for marijuana, from a low of 0.7% among M2 students to a high of 14.4% among S4 students; and for cigarettes, from a low of 0.2% among M3 students to a high of 1.9% among S3 students.

“The 2023 National School Survey Report can be viewed here.

“As a result, the DNDC Prevention Unit will specifically target the senior student populations who have the highest prevalence of current use. The Drug Prevention Unit of the DNDC will be visiting the Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy to share information on the effects that drugs and alcohol have on the individual.

“Students will be informed that drugs are mind-altering substances that affect the brain and can impair judgment, motivation, decision-making and well-being. Students will learn that knowing the facts about drugs and alcohol is their best defence against any pressure from their peers to use.

“Prevention Week 2024 is also an opportunity to raise awareness of adolescent substance misuse and mental health issues, implement prevention strategies and showcase the effectiveness of evidence-based prevention programming. The goal is a healthier community where the prevalence of drugs and alcohol is not problematic.

“Prevention Week is a US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA]-supported observance. As the DNDC joins the many organizations that support SAMHSA’s National Prevention Week 2024, we would like to thank our drug prevention partners, Shift, formally known as PRIDE [Bermuda] and CADA, who remain committed to drug prevention efforts for the benefit of our local community.”

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[Written by Althea Emery and Anya Thompson]

CedarBridge Academy set the stage ablaze with its electrifying annual S4 Fashion Show, “Save the Last Dance: It’s Giving Music,” held at the esteemed Ruth Seaton James Center for the Performing Arts on April 19th and 20th, 2024. Seamlessly blending fashion, music, and dance, this eagerly awaited event was a resounding success, amplifying support for the Class of 2024′s student scholarships and initiatives.

Guiding the audience through the two exhilarating nights were the dynamic duo of Mr. Khari Thornhill, the Principal’s Executive Assistant, and Ms. Lisa Eversley, a beloved Spanish Teacher. Their infectious energy and charismatic personas animated the crowd, sparking impromptu sing-alongs and dance-offs spanning various musical epochs.

Ms. Sandra Yearwood, a dedicated teacher at CedarBridge Academy, lauded the immersive nature of the event, emphasizing its departure from conventional fashion shows. “It wasn’t a regular Fashion Show, where models were just strutting the runway,” she remarked. “The audience was fully engaged. I felt like I was modeling too! I was treated to vibrant sounds of music cascading through the ages.”

Ms. Melanie Burrows, Althea Emery, Mrs. Vivian Millings, Mrs. Latoya Francis, and Leroyce Mills.

Student Danasia Ennis echoed this sentiment, praising the event’s vibrant atmosphere and the inclusion of staff members, which added an exciting dimension to the experience.

Principal Caesar stated, “It was great to see the students in the Class of 2024 participate in the fashion show. It was also great to see how many staff members walked the runway. This speaks to the true essence of CedarBridge Academy, a comprehensive school that is committed to meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of our students. Having a fashion show is a CBA tradition and I am grateful to the Fashion Show Committee for keeping with the tradition. I look forward to seeing members of the community supporting more CedarBridge Academy events”.

As the event drew to a close, attendees were treated to an unexpected finale as DJs ignited the central halls with infectious beats, prompting spontaneous outbreaks of dancing and leaving patrons clamoring for more.

When the curtain finally closed on “Save the Last Dance: It’s Giving Music,” it was evident that CedarBridge Academy had not only delivered a spectacular showcase of talent, but also fostered a sense of unity and purpose among its staff, students, and supporters. This event served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education, creativity, and community spirit.

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Amidst the rigor of studying for their IGCSE exams, Chatmore British International School students are stepping back to say “Thank You” for the support of their community as they gear up for an exciting educational experience in Bern, Switzerland.

Keziah Smith, Jayden DeSilva and Jordan Smith extend their sincerest appreciation to the generous Bermuda community members who are rallying behind them in their quest to embark on this unique educational experience.

“Through their support of our events and their generous donations, the Bermuda community has surprised us” says Chatmore Head Girl, Keziah Smith. “We are especially thankful to Kenny’s Kitchen for helping us to raise funds through a Codfish Breakfast in early April.

“This trip is coming after my Graduation from Chatmore and I am very excited to have it happen. We are currently studying for our exams so the exchange will be a great time for me and my peers to have fun together, meet new people and extend our learning into the summer.”

Asked what she wanted the community to know about the trip she said, “I’ve already met my host family and am in contact with the students who will be there to welcome us when we arrive in June. We are planning a musical collaboration and maybe I will have the chance to contribute some lyrics-we will be finalizing the details in a few weeks. Right now, we are all writing exams so that is the main focus.”

A school spokesperson stated that “following the last fundraiser, Keziah expressed a desire to say “Thank You” to the community and especially Mr. Kenny Rawlins of Kenny’s Kitchen for his kind support of the Codfish Breakfast where they raised $600.00 in breakfast purchases and donations. Keziah was sincerely grateful and with graduation only one month away, she wanted to share her feelings with the community while still officially a Chatmore student.”

“The three students’ are a little off their target of $7000 and have planned their next two endeavours. The first is a Carwash and Bake sale scheduled for May 18th at Rubis South Road, Warwick which promises to offer their supporters squeaky clean cars and mouth watering treats. The second fundraiser is “Jazz on the Green” on June 7th on the beautiful school grounds in Smith’s Parish. The entertainment includes Comedian Nadanja Bailey as Guest MC, 2024 Bermuda Idol Winner, Demara Maybury and Chatmore teacher, Isman Lovence who is an accomplished saxophonist.”

“It’s a full team effort. Our parents are actively supporting us, and our school community are also doing what they can to make both events a success. It’s exhausting, but together, it is fun,” Keziah added, emphasizing that “every contribution, no matter how big or small, is deeply cherished.”

For information about Chatmore or how to donate go to: https://www.chatmore.org/events.

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