Let’s Talk Dirty

Adjusting to a New Principal? Here are some tips for anxious students…

Change can be a little intimidating, especially when it comes to school leadership. A principal isn’t just someone who runs the office—they set the tone for the whole school. When your high school gets a new principal, you might feel unsure about what’s coming next. But here’s the good news: with the right mindset, this change can be a positive experience.

Stay Open to Change

Every principal brings fresh ideas. Instead of comparing them to the old one, try to stay open-minded. A new leader could bring improvements that make your school experience even better.

Be Patient

It takes time for a principal to get to know the school, just like it takes time for students to get used to new rules or routines. Give them space to settle in, you’ll adjust, too.

Speak Up (Respectfully!)

Principals should want to hear from students. Whether it’s through student council, surveys, or just stopping by with a polite suggestion, sharing your perspective and traditions helps the new leader understand your school’s needs.

Get Involved

Changes might come in the form of new clubs, activities, or events. Instead of shying away, jump in! It’s a chance to discover something new and exciting.

Keep the Spirit Alive

Even with leadership changes, the heart of the school should remain the same—its students. Keep showing up for games, performances, and traditions. That school spirit is what really keeps the community strong.

Support Each Other!

Not everyone reacts the same way to change. Some friends might be excited, while others may feel nervous. Being there for one another makes the transition smoother for everyone.

Remember having a new principal is a big shift, but it shouldn’t have to be a negative one. By staying positive, patient, and involved, you’ll not only adapt—you’ll help shape the future of your school community.

PMS Prize-Giving Awards 2025: A Night of Pride, Purpose, and Power

On Wednesday afternoon, charged with pride and celebration, the Princess Margaret School hosted its 2025 Prize-Giving Awards Ceremony—an unforgettable tribute to hard work, resilience, leadership, and the steady growth of its students. From start to finish, the evening shone with the brilliance of student achievement and the rich spirit of the PMS community.

The ceremony began with the strong, steady voice of our Principal, the esteemed Dr. Colin Greene, who delivered opening remarks that captured the heart of the school’s mission and the strength of its students. His words reminded us that excellence isn’t an accident—it’s a choice made day after day, challenge after challenge.

The first set of awards recognized the core values that shape Pridelands character. School counselors Miss T. King and Miss N. Edwards presented the Character Awards for Image, Discipline, Helpfulness, and Leadership—qualities that often go unseen but are the foundation of every success story.

Next came the academic backbone of the ceremony: the subject awards. Heads of Departments and subject teachers stepped forward to recognize the top-performing students in each subject area across every form level. Their applause, pride, and personal stories made it clear: these students didn’t just pass—they roared.

Then came one of the most spirited moments of the night: the presentation of the Spirit of PMS, PMS Ambassadors, Top Pan Man and Woman, and the Future Stars awards by none other than Mrs. Sharon Kelsick, former Vice Principal and a proud PMS alumna. The crowd erupted into laughter and cheers when Kadesh Joseph accepted an award while fully suited as the school mascot—a moment of light-hearted joy that captured the energy of the night perfectly.

The air itself seemed to hum with excitement, and the PMS Serenaders added melody to magic, entertaining the audience with the soothing, vibrant sounds of steel pan. Their performance reminded us all that excellence lives in both mind and music at PMS.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of Honour Roll, Principal’s List, and Academic Excellence Awards by Dr. Greene and Vice Principal Mrs. Lois Forbes, alongside special guest Mrs. Robyn Joseph Nathaniel, Vice Principal of the Antigua State College and a former teacher of PMS. Each name called was a reminder of the dedication and hours poured into reaching that level of distinction.

And just when the evening felt full, the PMS Dancers swept onto the stage with a graceful, energetic performance celebrating the beauty and culture of Antigua and Barbuda. Their movement spoke of pride—national and personal.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the announcement of the Students of the Year at each form level. The audience listened closely as profiles were read, capturing each student’s journey, spirit, and impact. When the names were revealed, the applause was deafening:

1st Form

  • Christopher James
  • Shamya Gayle
  • Acajah Richardson – Winner

2nd Form

  • Kadesh Charles
  • Makayla Scott – Winner
  • Peyton Michael

3rd Form

  • Abigail Rojas – Winner
  • Jahshaya Nibbs
  • Lily Francois

4th Form

  • Micaiah Forbes – Winner
  • Denesha Joseph
  • Kefira Boucher

Each winner was met with cheers and admiration, and then serenaded by Mr. Alvin Livingstone, our multi-talented visual arts teacher whose vocal tribute gave the night an added personal touch.

But the crowning moment—the one we will all remember—was the announcement of the Overall Student of the Year: Micaiah Forbes. When Dr. Greene made the declaration, the room erupted, bursting into applause. Four years in a row. Never before in PMS history has a student claimed that title for every form year. Micaiah’s consistency, drive, and humility stand as a shining example for every student who walks these halls.

As the school continues to mark its 70th year, the 2025 Prize-Giving Ceremony was more than a celebration. It was a statement. The students of PMS are thriving. They are strong, kind, focused, and ready for the future. And if last night proved anything—it’s that the Pridelands spirit isn’t just alive. It’s unstoppable.

Here’s to 70 years of excellence—and to the students who are just getting started

The Tea: Fingers Crossed

by Liz Anya

Hey cubs.

This week, we officially waved goodbye to our fifth formers as we barrel towards exam season. Meanwhile, the pride lands have suddenly become a ghost town, while the buzz around the latest lime is reaching a fever pitch!
Yup, it’s that time of the year again, folks. The pressure’s mounting, the textbooks are gathering dust, and somehow, the details of last weekend’s “Raft Up” seem way clearer than the intricacies of photosynthesis. We’re masters of the social calendar, knowing exactly who’s wearing what to prom, but when it comes to simple reading and arithmetic? Crickets.


Look, I get it. Hanging out with friends, making memories…that’s a vital part of the school experience. But let’s be real, those grades aren’t going to magically appear.
So, as the exam clock ticks down, maybe let’s try a little shift in focus. Just a nudge. Perhaps swap one late-night chat for a quick review session. Maybe skim a chapter before scrolling through the latest social media feed. Even a little bit of focus effort now, can save us from some serious stress later.

Catch you next time.