Melanie with the teachers of the Althea Scatliffe Primary School today May 29, 2012. Photo: VINO

Principal of ASPS saying thanks to Melanie by awarding her with a basket bouquet. Photo: VINO

Ms. Amaro viewing her memorabilia placed at her old primary school by the children and staff members. Photo: VINO

Earlier this morning May 29, 2012, Ms.Amaro, in speaking to current students of the school, told them never to give up, hold on to their dreams and never let anyone tell them that they cannot do it.

Ms. Amaro told the students that their story can be similar to hers once they work for what they want.

The 2011 X Factor winner said that she was pushed, backed and encouraged to continue singing and that is when she entered the X Factor and won.

“My story should encourage you that if you put your mind to whatever you want to do, you can achieve it, you just have to believe in yourself and continue pushing.”

In an exclusive interview with Melanie she said being back in her old school brings back memories of her walking pass each class room and trips to the principal’s office. “It was never for nothing bad, always something good.”

She stated that it is very exciting seeing all the people who taught her and who were instrumental in her growth and the person she is today.  She added that she is happy to be back home.

Principal of the Althea Scatliffe Primary School Ms. Marieta Flax-Headley told this news site that Melanie, being back at her old school, serves as a motivating factor to the students.

The Principal added that for the students to see first hand where they are today, Melanie was in the same spot years ago, their dreams will now be limitless. She added that realising this,students will then see that anything they put their minds to they can achieve it with hard work and dedication to that dream.

“Having her here is an inspiration to our children for them to tell themselves that they can be where she is if we work hard.”

Mrs. Flax-Headley stated that Melanie’s years at the ASPS weren’t “easy”. She added that kids use to tease and pull Melanie’s hair but “Look at her now”.

“Melanie being a product of the ASPS, it feels good and it proves many people wrong,” said the Principal.

Principal Headley told this news site that parents in the VI are afraid to send their kids to the school because they are afraid that their child(ren) will get “lost”.

“Of all the schools in the BVI, this is one that people are afraid of because it so big, Melanie came and she left her mark, so this becomes an encouragement to all, telling them that we as a big school, we too can develop talent.”

Several months ago, Ms. Amaro donated a cheque worth $1000 to the Music Department at ASPS.