The check is the first of what will be an annual contribution to the school from past student Ronald Escoffery, a financial analyst and author residing in Atlanta, Georgia, Yvonne Richards, (second right) and Eva Castro, (right) two other past students share in the moment.

Principal of the St. Andrew Technical High School (STATHS), Mrs. Curline V. Christie, says the formation of the alumni associations have helped to rekindle interest in the school community at Bumper Hall, Kingston.

Addressing past students and patrons at the second anniversary banquet of the Northeast (U.S.A.) chapter of the STATHS Alumni Association held at Antun's Caterers, Queens, New York, recently, Mrs. Christie's noted that since the launch of the chapter, "It has created a wave among past students and lot of interest is now being generated and the school spirit has reached a new high."

volunteerism

"Coming out of this, the Class of '73 has since donated scholarships for three students while several other past students have volunteered to help in the area of sports and with the mentoring programme," Mrs. Christie said.

Last year they provided eight scholarships to students at the school.

Declaring, STATHS is alive again, Mrs. Christie urged the past students to continue to help improve the status of their alma mater, thereby creating a future for others.

Chairman of the school board and alumnus Silvera Castro told the group that against the background of shrinking subventions from the Government and the Ministry of Education, "The survival of schools will depend on the help received from groups such as this alumni association."

never cease to assist

Mr. Castro implored those who were privileged to walk through the noble gates of STATHS, "... Never to cease assisting those in need. We must endeavour to be our brother's keeper. We must make the effort to ensure that the young men and women of the school realise their full potential."

He later presented the Principal, Mrs. Christie with a cheque for US$1,000, the first of an annual donation to the school from past student Ronald Escoffery, a financial analyst in Atlanta, Georgia.

St. Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) Board Chairman, Silvera Castro (left), presents a cheque for US$1,000 to Principal Mrs. Curline V. Christie (second left) at the second annual benefit gala of the Northeast (U.S.A.) chapter of the STATHS Alumni Association at Antun's Caterers in Queens, New York, on Saturday, September 23. Others in the picture are past students: Yvonne Richards (second right) and Eva Castro.

-2006.