March 20, 2009 – Female Virgin Islands educators will be honored for their contributions to the public education system and the history of the territory in song and praise beginning at 12:45 p.m., on Friday, March 27, at the Evelyn Marcelli Elementary School, according to Principal Whitman Browne.
The program will pay homage and celebrate the lives, careers and achievements of 20 plus, noted V.I. educators to include: Erma Sewer, Gladys Abraham, Ruth Moolenaar, Genevieve Rogers, Ruth Thomas, Ulla Muller, Jean Richards, former principal of Evelyn Marcelli School and current St. Thomas-St. John District Superintendent Jeanette Smith-Barry.
Brown said, "I wanted to celebrate the month of March in a grand way and one that incorporated all of the celebrations we have during this month. This program celebrates the islands' history, our women – matriarchs, educators and culture bearers, and showcases the hard work, musical knowledge and talents of our students who will perform for the honorees and guests. Additionally, we will round off the event with healthful and nutritious foods in celebration of Nutrition Month.
"The honorees are no strangers to the public by virtue of their many contributions. Many of them served the children of the Virgin Islands in the past, and others continue to do so," he added. "We applaud their service and offer this humble program, as our way of saying thank you for all that you have done and continue to do in the name of the children and these Virgin Islands."
The entertainment features the school's choir, two student soloists, faculty members, and invited guest performers: Neomie Toussaint-Williams, Malvern Gumbs, SASA (UVI) and Jenine Martin. Parents and the general public are invited to join the school administration and students for the event.
