-With big goals for new school year

-by Kyler Rollins

In Berbice, the new academic year is beginning with more than new books and classrooms, students are already setting targets for themselves.

At different stages of their education, their priorities may vary, but the message is much the same: this is a year to make progress.

For Grade Five student Lanessa Fortune, that starts with putting away the devices and dedicating more time to schoolwork.

“ I plan to work this term by not being on my iPad or my device too much so I can get a better grade,” she said.

“I’m doing a lot of work and just being myself. I’m being cool and I’m not taking it too hard. I’m happy that I can see back my friends,” Adeena Ram shared.

Meanwhile, Depeeka Ramcharran expressed excitement about what the new school year brings.

“I’m going into the class of Grade 7 and I’m feeling great about it,” she said.

Parents are backing those ambitions, with many saying they expect students to remain disciplined and make the most of the opportunities before them.

Deywattie Balkarran told NCN, “I feel really happy. I expect them to do good this term. I’ve been sending them to lessons. I will try for them to do more better.”

Another parent, Shevon Rollins, said, “ I expect my child to do good. The sky is your limit. Just go for your dreams. You work it, you do, you dream it and you bring it.”

Regional officials also visited schools during the day to assess the reopening and ensure the new term got off to a smooth start.

For these students, however, the first day is already behind them. The challenge now is turning those early goals into results.