St Sylvan - Carapichaima Anglican Primary School

Day 10
"As we continue our countdown to Mrs. Gail Elliott-De Coteau's retirement, we celebrate the qualities that have made her such an extraordinary educator and leader. Through her dedication, wisdom, faith, and unwavering commitment to children, she has touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on our school community. Thank you, Mrs. Elliott-De Coteau, for being a shining example of service and excellence."

**Day 9 – Student Shout-Out Day**

**"Thank you, Mrs. De Coteau, because..."**

..you made school a place where learning and childhood adventures went hand in hand.

We will never forget the Tobago trips—the horse riding, goat racing, boat races, Buccoo Reef, and No Man’s Land. We remember the concerts, Christmas productions, carnival celebrations, and all the costumes and performances that brought us together.

Thank you for the field trips to the Mud Volcanoes, Pitch Lake, the Bird Sanctuary, and the Zoo. Thank you for taking a group of us to a nearby potato festival, where we saw and tasted things we had never experienced before.

We remember the library, where many of us first discovered a love for reading. What started as punishment for some became a lifelong habit. Stories like *The Hungry Caterpillar*, *Miss Mary Mac*, *There Once Was a Fly*, *Over in the Meadow*, and countless phonics books became part of our childhood memories.

We remember the mango, plum, cherry, five-finger, and breadfruit trees that made our schoolyard an adventure. We even remember getting into trouble for picking plums—only to have a plum chow sale shortly afterwards!

Thank you for teaching us cricket, football, hopscotch, marble pitch, and so many other games. You found ways to provide equipment, drew hopscotch grids by hand, and never hesitated to join us outside. Through play, you taught us teamwork, discipline, and good morals.

We remember the Ascension Day balloons, kite-flying competitions, Maypole dances, deya painting, and planting peas and ochro. These traditions became cherished parts of our school experience and gave us memories that have lasted a lifetime.

Thank you, Mrs. De Coteau, for making our childhood special, our school vibrant, and our memories unforgettable. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom, and we are grateful for the love, dedication, and joy you brought into our lives.

**With love and gratitude,**
**Your Students – Past and Present** ❤️📚

Day 8 – Did You Know?

Did You Know?

Many of the students whose lives were shaped by Mrs. Gail Elliot-De Coteau have gone on to become teachers, nurses, police officers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

For over four decades, she has done more than educate children—she has helped build futures. Through her guidance, encouragement, discipline, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential, she has inspired generations to dream big, work hard, and serve their communities with pride.

Her legacy is not only found within the walls of the schools she led, but also in the countless lives she has touched and the positive impact her former students continue to make throughout Trinidad and Tobago and beyond.

A teacher influences a generation. A principal inspires a community. Mrs. Gail Elliot-De Coteau has done both. 💙📚✨

Day 7: Reflection

As we reflect on Mrs. Gail Elliott-De Coteau’s remarkable journey in education, we give thanks for her years of faithful service, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to the children entrusted to her care.

"Lord, grant us hearts that serve with humility, lead with wisdom, and inspire with love. May the lives we touch today become the leaders of tomorrow. Bless those who dedicate themselves to the service of others, and may their work continue to bear fruit for generations to come. Amen."

Mrs. Elliott-De Coteau’s legacy reminds us that true leadership is not measured by position, but by the lives uplifted, the opportunities created, and the difference made in the service of others.
"Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." — Matthew 20:26 ✝️

14 Years of Leadership, Vision, and Growth ✨

Over the past 14 years, Mrs. Gail Elliott-De Coteau has helped transform our school through dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to our students. From a new school building and library to the introduction of school Clubs and other enriching programmes, her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. 💙💛

🎉 Day 5 – Principal Trivia Challenge! 🎉

How well do you know Mrs. Gail Elliott-De Coteau?

As we celebrate her incredible journey in education, let's have some fun! 🤔

Can you guess the answers to these questions?

💙 What is her favourite colour?
🎓 What is her favourite school event?
🍲 What is her favourite food?
📚 What is her favourite subject to teach?
🎵 What is her favourite song or hymn?

Comment your answers below and see how many you get right! 👇

✨ The correct answers will be revealed tomorrow.

Day 5 – Throwback Friday

Today, we take a walk down memory lane as we celebrate the incredible impact Mrs. Gail Elliott-De Coteau has had on generations of students.

Were you one of Mrs. DeCoteau's students? Do you have a favourite school memory, class photograph, graduation picture, or special moment from your time at Carapichaima Anglican Primary School?
We would love to see it!

Share your photographs in the comments and tell us how Mrs. DeCoteau touched your life. Whether she taught you, encouraged you, disciplined you, inspired you, or simply made your school days brighter, your story is part of her remarkable legacy.

For over 40 years in education and 14 years as Principal, Mrs. DeCoteau has helped shape countless lives. Today, we celebrate those memories and the generations of students who carry her lessons with them.

❤️ Post your photos, share your memories, and help us honour a truly exceptional educator.

Day 4 – Quote of the Day

"You worried? We doing it for the children... give it away."

Anyone who has worked alongside Mrs. Gail Elliott-De Coteau has heard these words more times than they can count. Whenever challenges arose, resources seemed scarce, or obstacles appeared too great, she would remind us of what mattered most—the children.

This simple but powerful phrase reflects her selfless approach to education. She has spent 40 years putting children first, giving freely of her time, energy, wisdom, and love. For Mrs. De Coteau, education was never about recognition or reward; it was about making a difference in the lives of every child who walked through the school gates.

As we celebrate her remarkable legacy, this quote reminds us of the heart behind her leadership: generosity, service, and an unwavering commitment to children.

💙 Thank you, Mrs. De Coteau, for showing us what it truly means to give of yourself for others.