Texaco “adopts” St. Luke Methodist School
Viewers of this newscast are aware that Belize’s contractors are working hard just to keep up with the demand for educational facilities. But despite the growing number of new buildings, the fact is that not all schools are created equal. This morning News 5’s Jacqueline Woods was on hand to witness an attempt by one corporate benefactor to level the academic playing field.
Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
The donation of twenty thousand dollars by Texaco Belize Limited to the management, staff and students of St. Luke Methodist School was more than just about money. It was a time to celebrate the achievements made by this southside primary school that has had to struggle for virtually everything it has. According to Principal, Huldah Neal, the neglect of the school profoundly affected the staff and students.
Huldah Neal, Principal, St. Luke Methodist School
“The school was often referred to as the forgotten school. I don’t know if it’s because of the location…I can’t really pinpoint it, but I know that when I came behind here as principal in 1996, it was an uphill battle. Parents were not sending their children to school, the self-esteem of the students and the teachers was quite low.”
A number of activities were introduced into the school’s curriculum so the children could participate and improve their self-respect. The programmes were successful and the public soon became aware of the talent that exists within the school. In 1997, as part of a world-wide initiative by Texaco, the company adopted St. Luke’s and has been meeting the needs of the institution.
Rene Garcia, Country Manager, Texaco
“One of Texaco’s guiding principle is that we must contribute to the need of communities where we operate throughout the world. We select schools that have low-income students in order to help them. That’s the way this initiative started in Belize, St. Luke Methodist School was selected and since 1997 we have been contributing year after year. This is the fifth year in a row that we are contributing, and the purpose of this gathering today was to celebrate the donation this year of twenty thousand dollars.”
In the past three years, the company has helped the school to access some badly needed supplies. Neal says Texaco is the only company that has shown interest in the school’s development.
Huldah Neal
“That is my strong belief, and not only the general manager, all the members of staff. I remember one Saturday the lower school needed painting and they came with their paints, brush everything, the entire staff and painted all the classrooms.”
Following the ceremony, the students were treated to cupcakes and softdrinks before returning to their classrooms. Reporting for News 5, Jacqueline Woods.
Under the Texaco’s “Adopt-A-School” programme local Texaco employees also participate in activities supporting St. Luke’s advancement.
