If there is ever one thing that Darwin Hazell, Principal of the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, will cherish long after his retirement, will be the high esteem and love he was accorded by his teaching staff during his years of service there.
Always wishing to show their high regard for him, they re-named Valentine’s Day as Principal’s Day in his honour, though keeping largely the traditional colours of the February 14 occasion.

The teaching staff at the ALHCS

The colourfully-clad (and overdressed) educators, with their beaming Principal nestled in the middle, converged at the entrance of the nearby Public Library to stand with him and for a memorable photo opportunity.

Their unusual attire, and mass gathering, attracted the attention of passers by and members of the student body who cheered them on. It was a fine display of fellowship and comraderie that the public would like to see filtering down to students and resulting in enduring good relations among them.

The teaching staff at the ALHCS

The teachers made their way from the Library to their staff room where Mr. Hazell was hugged by the 90-odd staff and presented each of them with a gift, probably leaving a big but hole in his pocket. They in turn gave him gifts throughout the day.

Melsadis Fleming, one of the prime organisers of the event, told The Anguillian: “Today is called the Principal’s Day. This is his last Valentine Day as Principal of the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, so we decided to shower him today with love. At this time he is giving us some gifts and, during the day, we will shower him with gifts and be kind to him. This speaks volumes that we love our Principal. He is a peoples’ person and that’s why we love him.”

The teaching staff at the ALHCS

Mr. Hazell replied: “It is more than a pleasant feeling. It lifts my spirit. What you are seeing here is sincere and it is a good experience,” he remarked to The Anguillian.
He is due to retire officially in November coming – if his supportive staff will allow him to do so.

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