By Daniela V. Richardson

Oranjestad- The Board of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) school today organized a small gathering to bless the grounds for the expansion of the school. School principle Lavern David-Duggins and director of Education showed gratitude to those present and reminded them that “everything we do we put God first”.

Pastor Virgil Sams encouraged the faculty to continue to look forward to the future. He reminded the gathering that while the process had not been easy, everyone was happy to see where the school was today.

Ishmael Berkel reminded those present of his dream which started in 1989 and became a reality in 1997, when his first after-school program started. Among those present was former pupil -now contractor- for the project, Jaimie Lopes of D &M Enterprises.

The St. Eustatius Seventh Day Adventist school started with only 7 pupils in 1997, but has grown to a total of about 100 students at present. Principle David Duggins said she and her staff were looking forward to welcoming old and new students for the new school year 2018/2019.