“Well done you good and faithful servant” Matthew 25:23

After 76 years of service, both Mrs Lewis and Mr Gabriel retired from the Teaching Service and Talparo RC.

Ita Lewis

Mrs Lewis joined the teaching service in 1966 in Talparo RC. She attended the Government Teachers Training College in 1973 and went to Arima Boys’ RC in 1975. She spent 18 years at Arima Boys’ RC and in 1993 returned to Talparo RC. She was appointed principal in 1994 and stayed until her retirement in January of 2006.

Mr Gabriel joined the Teaching Service in 1968 at Tortuga RC. He was soon transferred to Talparo RC where he stayed for over 30 years.

On Thursday, May 18, after overnight rain and an overcast sky, weeks of planning and preparation were brought to fruition. It was the grand valedictory function arranged for these two stalwarts of the education system.

The function did not get started until 11.00 a.m. and ended at 2.30 p.m. During this time, hardly a person moved, so enchanted were they with the many notable achievement of their esteemed education.

The function began with a church service conducted by Fr Moses, parish priest of San Rafael. This first part of the function was held at the  Talparo RC Church. Fr Moses speaking on the theme, “Well done you good and faithful servant,” reminded all that the rewards of teaching are when past students meet you and compliment you on a job well done.

Cornelius Gabriel

After the church service, the formal session began. The welcome was done by Paul Massy who introduced the chairman of the day Hollis Raghunanan.

Vincent Booker, the acting principal gave the opening remarks where the achievements of the school were highlighted. There were numerous cultural items by pupils, parents and teachers that were well received by all.

The highlights of the programme were the Valedictory speeches done for Mr Gabriel and Mrs Lewis. Marlon Matthew, Ademain Ali and Richardo Figuero all paid glowing tributes to Mr Gabriel. Many were brought to tears on hearing the sacrifices and excellence he brought to  Talparo.

The acting principal spoke on behalf of Mrs Lewis telling the distinguished audience of Mrs Lewis leadership style of moving the school from low achieving to one of high achievement. Mention was made of the exploits of the school in dance, choral speaking and cricket during her helm as principal.

Both valedictorian gave their farewell speeches with watering eyes before moving over to the school at 2.30 p.m. where a lavish banquet was prepared under tents in the courtyard with soft music and flowing drinks.

Thank you Mrs Lewis and Mr Gabriel and all those who made your farewell such a fitting and memorable occasion.