It was a nerve-wracking experience

Boundbrook, Portland:

The impressive grades achieved by Rashanna Tashana Ireland and Jelani Michael Passley, respectively, are due to hard work and commitment, which have allowed them the distinction of being named top girl and top boy at Boundbrook Primary School in Portland.

Rashanna and Jelani, both grade six students, admitted that it was a nerve wracking experience for them, as tensions were high going into the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT).

"I will be attending the school of my choice, Titchfield High," said Rashanna. "The weeks and months of extra classes on Saturdays, coupled with extra lessons and pass papers, were worth it. I am so happy that my determination to secure high grades in GSAT has become a reality. I am expecting even greater things at my new school, as I seek to excel academically," she added.

Rashanna, who hails from the community of Boundbrook in Port Antonio, lists her hobbies as studying, reading, surfing the Internet for information, and watching documentary.

Her ambition is to become a meteorologist as she is fascinated by the varied weather patterns.

grades

The top girl secured the following grades: mathematics-87, social studies-98, science-98, communication task-100, and language arts 92, for an overall average of 95 per cent. On the other hand, Jelani, who held his nerve to secure the following grades: mathematics-86, science-96, language arts-96, social studies-95, and communication task-75 for an average of 89.6 per cent, attributed his success to the many hours spent at extra classes on Saturday. He too, will be attending Titchfield, the school of his choice.

"This is just the beginning," said Jelani. "I will up the tempo at Titchfield, which I already know is going to be quite a challenge.

Ambition

My ambition is to become a scientist, as I am captivated by plants and animals. In my spare time, I like to play video games, read, and surf the Internet.

My father is deceased. However, I am well supported by my mother, who is a strong believer in education," he added.