The Tribune

A SPECIAL assembly was held at the Stephen Dillett Primary School to celebrate the achievement of pupil Jasmin Adamson in finishing second in the National Spelling Bee Finals.

Minister of Education, Science and Technology Jerome Fitzgerald attended to congratulate the sixth grader.

He praised Jasmin for her success and the fact that she was the only primary school student among the top three finalists. He said Jasmin is a testament that great things are happening in public schools and said she is a role model for all students.

A very soft-spoken and shy Jasmin acknowledged her worthy competitors and said: “I was happy that Charles won because he was the only boy and also, this is his last year to compete and I still have a few more years.”

She also reflected on negative comments that she heard and the expectation that a student from a “ghetto school” would not make it very far. She told her school mates that it doesn’t matter what school you attend, where you live or how much money you have, all that matters is your belief in yourself and your willingness to work hard.

Minister Fitzgerald said: “Students, do not allow people to tell you what you can, or cannot do just because you go to a particular school or live in a certain area; your circumstances do not have to define you.”

Jasmin’s parents were also in attendance. Her father said that he will always be there for his daughter and will never give up on her, while her mother said that parental involvement is not optional but a must.

They were both filled with joy and pride and were happy to know that their daughter’s hard work, commitment and the sacrifices of all has paid off.

Jasmin will be traveling to Washington DC to attend the Scripps National Spelling Bee from May 24–29.