A quarter-century after graduating from Antigua Grammar School, the 1999 Form 5 cohort has made a meaningful contribution to lifting up current students, stepping forward to donate funds to grow the institution’s beloved music program.
Organized collectively by members of the school’s Form 5A and Form 5 Alpha groups, the contribution is earmarked specifically for acquiring new steelpans, a key instrument that is central to Caribbean musical culture and the school’s existing music education work, the school confirmed in an official statement.
Dr. Jonah Greene, principal of Antigua Grammar School, extended sincere gratitude to the returning alumni on behalf of the entire school community, framing the gift as far more than a simple financial contribution. Instead, he emphasized that it is a targeted investment in the raw talent and long-term futures of the young people currently learning and growing at the school.
“Their contribution, which will go towards the purchase of steelpans, is more than a gift of instruments. It is an investment in the talents, creativity, and future of our students,” Greene shared in his remarks.
Greene went on to note that the alumni’s gesture speaks volumes about the lifelong, enduring bonds that graduates maintain with their alma mater. It also highlights the longstanding culture of “Old Boys” — former male students of the institution — stepping up to lift up the next generation of learners that walk the school’s halls.
This ethos of community support and ongoing growth aligns perfectly with Antigua Grammar School’s official motto, Semper Virens, which translates to “ever flourishing” in Latin, the principal added.
Closing his message, Greene once again expressed appreciation for the cohort’s generosity, and issued a gentle call to action for other alumni across all graduating classes to carry forward the powerful tradition of giving back to the institution that shaped them. For current students, the donation will not only expand access to music education but also serve as a lasting reminder of the support network that stands behind them as they develop their skills.