The students who performed the best in this year's Primary School Examination were singled out and honored at an awards ceremony this morning at the Bliss Center. 26 of the top students from the Belize, Corozal, Orange Walk, and Cayo Districts received honors and vouchers in front of their peers, teachers, and proud family members.
For months they studied and prepared, last month they got the news that they had passed, and today the top finishers in the primary school examination were honored.
Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education
"Today we meet to recognize our 2004 PSE awardees; those top 25 primary school students from around the country who achieved excellence from among 5,819 students who sat this year's exam."
For most of the morning the spotlight was on top finisher Rasine Gillet who nabbed the Jane and Michael Nembhard High School Scholarship. She also got a book award and then to top it off was a fully loaded computer from Education Minister Francis Fonseca. Rasine says life at the top is hectic but she loves it.
Rasine Gillet, PSE Top Finisher
"It's been kind of tiring somewhat. People have been telling me congratulations and just wishing me well for when I go to high school."
Q: _What role did your parents play in your success?
Rasine Gillet, PSE Top Finisher
"They supported me along the way."
Q: _Mom, how proud are you of Rasine right now?
Delia Noble, Rasine's Mom
"I'm very proud of her; very happy. And I knew she would do her very best but I didn't expect her to come first."
Q: Any advice to parents?
Delia Noble,
"I would tell them to pay attention to their children. Take time with them. Listen to them. Support them in any school activities and projects and they will excel."
Q: Dad, how happy are you?
Dwight Gillet, Rasine's Father
"I feel very proud because the sacrifices and commitment pay off. This is what any parent would ask for and I feel good about it."
The pride and good feelings were shared among the families of this year's top finishers. The mothers of second place Hero Balani and third place Eric Lin were also at the bliss to cheer on their son.
Hero Balani, 2nd Place PSE
"It feels great. I feel happy and I feel great that I made my family proud and I did well."
Q: Mom how proud did Hero make you?
Sonia Balani, Hero's Mother
"Very very proud."
Q: Did you expect him to do so well in the PSE?
Sonia Balani, Hero's Mother
"No. It was a surprise for me that he came in second in the PSE."
Eric Lin, 3rd Place PSE
"I feel very good along with my parents."
Q: Mom, how do you feel?
Teresa Wu, Eric's Mother
"I am very proud of him because he studied hard. After school he always finished his homework. So I am happy. I think he deserved it."
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