The Immaculate Conception High and Preparatory Schools were awarded today, the Key to the City of Kingston and it is the first time that this honor has been bestowed on two associated educational entities at the same time.

The Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC) approved the presentation of the Key to the City of Kingston to the Immaculate Conception Schools on a resolution moved by Councillor Robert Williams and seconded by Deputy Mayor Lee Clarke. In moving the resolution, Councillor Williams highlighted the high levels of preparatory and secondary education to which both schools have exposed its students over the 150 years of its existence. The Council also approved the recommendation to the Governor General for a Proclamation to be made declaring Homecoming Week (July 6-12, 2008) as Immaculate Conception Schools Week.

As part of the 150^th anniversary celebrations, the Key was presented to the principals of the Preparatory (Ms Theresa Mendes) and High Schools (Sr. Angella Harris, O.S.F.) by His Worship, the Mayor, Councillor Senator Desmond McKenzie on March 13^th 2008 in a special ceremony. Notwithstanding the persistent drizzle which forced the truncation of the ceremony the presentation was met with loud cries of approval by the many students, parents, teachers, alumnae, well-wishers and benefactors who braved the rain.

The keynote speaker, Senator Hyacinth Bennett, used the occasion to remark on Immaculate’s ability to maintain good behaviour when this trait was sadly lacking elsewhere in the school system. She urged educators to take back their schools through building self esteem within each student so that they will realize that their real strength lies in their intellect and not bad behaviour.

Messages were also brought by Speaker of the House, the Hon Delroy Chuck who was representing Member of Parliament for the area the Hon Karl Samuda, who was unavoidably absent.

Immaculate’s 150^th celebrations began in January of 2008 with a special Mass at the Holy Trinity Cathedral and have so far featured an inaugural professional excellence lecture, as well as a special version of the once popular St. Patrick’s Day BBQ Supper.

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