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The Principal of the Basseterre High School has been a shining example of resilience, integrity and grace under the extreme constraints which led to the High School being closed due to health and safety concerns.

Mrs. Henry-Morton came to the defence of her students and teachers at the Basseterre High School, many of whom were affected by the environmental contamination plaguing the School for over two years.

When government officials were dismissive and disparaging of the plight of her students and teachers and failed to take corrective action, Mrs. Henry-Morton courageously stood up for the staff and students against the powers that be. She led a movement against the inefficient handling of the contamination issues, and repeatedly called for urgent action to be taken by the government.

By placing the health of her students and teachers first, she stood to lose her career and her reputation as she was brought before a disciplinary panel for her brave stance. But Mrs. Henry-Morton did not give up the fight until after regional specialists conducted inspections at the School, and an independent Arbitration Panel ruled that the School should be closed for an indefinite period, during which time her students would operate on a shift system with the Washington Archibald High School.

Her steadfast commitment to the cause of safeguarding the health of her 800 students, against many challenges, enabled her to win the hearts of Kittitians and Nevisians at home and abroad.

For her moral fortitude, sacrifice, and selfless dedication to our youth, we are abundantly proud to name Mrs. Carlene Henry-Morton our Person of the Year.