The week began last week Friday morning when a new plaque was unveiled in the stairway of the main building. Obviously the student body cannot fit into a stairway, so two students from each class were invited, as well as any teacher or student who did not have class. But the ceremony was broadcast on the school radio, beginning at 9:00 with the Hymnusz, their national anthem. Every person in the schools stood in perfect silence. After the principal's speech of dedication, classes continued normally, although shortened for the day.
That evening we attended a banquet at the Kispest Cultural Center, about a block away. This event was held solely for the teachers and retired teachers of Trefort. Every program begins with a speech by the principal. Students were responsible for the entertainment. The choir sang four songs, the drama troupe put together a multi-media presentation highlighting the 50 years, and former students performed musical numbers or read poems. Then the retirees were honored, all of the teachers received their year-end bonuses a little early, and we enjoyed the food that was catered in. Of course, red or white wine was on the menu.
This past week the students had shortened classes each day. This allowed for competitions to take place: poetry reading, table tennis, soccer, art work, web design, karaoke, and dance. On Wednesday only the first three classes were held, and then the local police and fire departments were represented in the courtyard, giving demonstrations and showing off their stuff. (A fire truck and two BMW motorcycles included.)
On Wednesday night we had another assembly that was attended by the local dignitaries, including the mayor of Kispest. The principal from a sister school in England also was there to bring congratulations from his school. Again we began with the Hymnusz, had a number of speeches given, former and present students performed, and finally the choir led us all in singing Boldog Születésnapot (Happy Birthday). One highlight for us was a five-piece brass ensemble that played a Sousa march and another rag of American origin. After this program we walked back to the school cafeteria for a delicious meal that was catered in. We ate some wonderful new foods that we had not had before. Somewhere on that table caviar was presented with some cold-cuts, open-faced sandwiches were decorated with beautiful sunny-side-up eggs, and salads were adorned with sliced beef, ham, and turkey. It was delicious. And of course, the birthday cake, with a picture of the school as the frosting.
Yesterday we ended the week with an assembly in the school courtyard with the students lined up in their class groups. The principal announced the winners of all the competitions that were held during the week and handed out prizes. Then the best sur"prise" of all: he announced that school would be canceled for today. That certainly pleased the students and teachers; it had been a long and busy week for most everyone.
We consider it a privilege to participate in these unique experiences in the life of our school. The organizers of Trefort Jubileum certainly put a lot of work into the events, making it memorable for all.
The bust of Trefort in the stairway.
The new marble plaque commemorating the 50th anniversary.
Delicious food!
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday in the dark!
Anyone with the name of Katalin, Kate, Katinka, or any variation takes a flower home, because it is her name day!
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