Everyone was a winner Thursday evening at the 20th Anniversary Junior Gardening and Ecology Academy closing ceremony as children were honored for the first time. More than 50 parents applauded and cheered as 60 academy participants received medals, trophies and certificates.
According to Mario Francis, academy founder and chairman of the board, while the children’s work over the eight-week course is always recognized, children themselves have never received awards at the closing ceremony for their hard work and dedication.
Academy student Kendall Benjamin, 12 year-old from V.I. Montessori School and International Academy, said that although she enjoyed being rewarded, learning about more than 60 plants was the best part of the program.
"My favorite part was learning about plants and trying new experiences," Benjamin said. "I don’t think I would be the person I am if I wasn’t here."
Children were all smiles as they opened the ceremony with songs, dances and poetry readings. Both children and parents shared kind words about the program and board members, thanking the academy for offering a positive summer activity.
Although the summer academy focuses on gardening and ecology, children also join in a number of activities geared towards physical and mental wellness. Participants do everything from kayaking to dolphin watching to taking quizzes. When gardening, children grow local plants, vegetables and fruits. At the end of the program, participants take home their plants to begin their own gardens.
Francis also noted the practical experience kids receive as speakers like veterinarians visit and discuss responsible pet ownership, and bank managers talk about how to save money and establish good credit.
The program was originally designed for children 7 to 15 years old, but Francis said the academy has received so much positive feedback that they allowed 6 year-olds to participate this year. In fact, the program has grown so much, there’s a waiting list to join.
Rene Crawford Barry, whose son Joshua Crawford Barry joined the academy at the end of last summer, said she’s thankful her son has something healthy to participate in.
"They love it tremendously," she said of the participants. "Mr. Francis has left a lasting impression on every person that comes through his doors. He’s so passionate and loving and kind, and he knows how to pass it on and bring out the best in every child."
"He makes sure he gives kids the total enrichment package," Crawford Barry added.
Francis founded the summer academy in 1992 when he returned to the territory after college. He shared stories of children hurting one another during dangerous activities, and said it was then he decided to give kids an alternative.
