Thanks to the success of students in their re-examinations, Abraham de Veerschool MAVO achieved an impressive 86% graduation rate, a result that brought joy and pride to school principal Jane Bueno-Hooft.
The school celebrated this milestone during its graduation ceremony held Monday night at Las Palmas Ballroom, Holiday Inn Beach Resort. Principal Bueno-Hooft, visibly moved, shared the school’s journey to this achievement, prompting heartfelt applause from the audience.
She thanked the teachers, parents, school board, and students, emphasizing that the combined effort of all parties made the 86% success possible.
Although the Minister of Education had been invited, they were not present at the event.
In her inspirational speech, Bueno-Hooft encouraged students to continue pursuing education, sharing stories of former students who advanced in their careers. She addressed the teacher shortage affecting Aruba and the school itself, urging graduates to consider teaching as a career path, potentially returning one day to teach at Abraham de Veerschool.
The principal also highlighted that many students who had transferred from other schools successfully earned their diplomas at Abraham de Veerschool. She expressed gratitude to Winston Ho Sing Loy, a retired teacher who returned to help teach physics during a staff shortage. She also recognized Ana Maria Rodriguez, who is leaving to live abroad, and honored Tineke Pengel and Ms. Hooker for their 25 years of service in education.
Finally, she extended deep appreciation to Yadira Winklaar from DPS for her invaluable support and personally handed diplomas to each of the students who graduated.
