One by one they stepped up to the microphone, dressed in vibrant colors and prints representing the U. S. Virgin Islands. Some were bold and confident, others soft-spoken and reserved, but all displayed exceptional talent as they recited original works of poetry at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School’s "Centennial Poetry Celebration Featuring Virgin Islands History & Culture with a Taste of Virgin Islands Cuisine" event held Tuesday, February 21 in the school’s cafeteria.
The evening affair was organized as part of the school’s Virgin Islands centennial commemoration and featured more than 32 students praising the beauty of the Virgin Islands, primarily that of St. Croix, and its culture. Poem topics included heroines, such as Queen Mary, the historic Fireburn in F'sted, the historic significance of F'sted/Freedom City, the V.I. Flag, agriculture, carnival, moko jumbies, Annaberg Plantation on St. John, Salt River Bay, bush tea, the St. Croix Agricultural Food Fair, quadrille dancing, yellow cedar flower, sugar/sugarcane, Buck Island, slavery, and farming. The wide range of topics presented a warm mix of humor, whimsy and social awareness.
As part of the show, school administrators and other guests were invited to perform original works of poetry, as well. Assistant Principal Dureama Moorehead presented "My Childhood Days" that took listeners down memory lane of some of her childhood memories. Assistant Principal Dr. Sharon Charles presented a riveting poem on the brutalities of slavery. Special invited guests, She Free Poetry and Geron Richards presented motivational poems that inspired students to follow their dreams and succeed.
Following the poetry presentations, students and audience members were treated to tasty dishes of traditional Virgin Islands food, juices and pastries. Deputy Superintendent Faith Dane George-Boone offered both the welcoming and closing remarks, both times expressing her pride in the young poets' efforts. She also challenged the school to compile the students’ writings into an anthology so they can be preserved as part of the school's history. Technology Integration teacher Janice Simon organized the event and Leanne Moranicie served as Mistress of Ceremonies. Emergent leaders Kenya McIntosh and Ashley Morrell gave the opening prayer and the opening poem, respectively.
The following sponsors contributed to the success of the event:
Claire Roker, parent chairperson
Betty Lynch
Ernest Trucking and Backhoe
Headline Supermarket
In the Mix
Crucian Gold
Plaza Extra - West
Shop & Save
Stop and Shop
Cost-U-Less
Annaly Farm
Thomas Bakery
Frontline Bar and Restaurant
La Reine Chicken Shack
Villa Morales
Complex Catering
Food Town
Noella Valmont
Henry Soblatte
Assistant Prinicipal Dureama Moorehead presents "My Childhood Days" at VI Poetry Night at Claude O. Markoe Elementary on February 21. 
Assistant Principal Dr. Charles presents on the horros of slavery at V. I. Poetry Night at Claude O. Markoe Elementary on February 21. 
Audience members listen attentively at V. I. Poetry Night at Claude O. Markoe Elementary on February 21. 
