NASSAU, Bahamas --- Daniel Smith is determined to not become a grim statistic. He is making an effort to change his outlook on life and specifically education. The 16-year-old is one of 11 senior students from C. I. Gibson Senior High School, chosen to participate in a dual enrollment program at The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution (BTVI).

The 10 boys and one girl are being exposed to the art of painting for fall 2015 and spring 2016. The three classes include Introduction to Painting along with Math and English two days per week.

For Daniel, the trip to BTVI is a sacrifice, as he is a Kemp Road resident who is accustomed to walking to his nearby school on Marathon Road. Furthermore, his classes at BTVI begin at 8 am - an hour earlier than the start of classes for public school students. It means rising earlier than normal to be on time, in addition to catching the bus to and from BTVI twice per week. But for Daniel, it's all worth it.

"This is a good opportunity. BTVI is giving me hope and a trade," said the bright-eyed 12th grader.

And although when he completes high school, Daniel intends to return to BTVI to pursue carpentry instead, he is still grateful for exposure to the painting program and post-secondary education.
 

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