Youth/Education
Education ministry giving extra focus on the art of S.T.E.A.M
Sharie De Castro speaking at the handing-over ceremony on Wednesday, March 15
(JTV News) — The theme for Education Week, being observed in the territory, from March 13-19, is “Virgin Islands Education: Moving Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead”. S.T.E.A.M stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
Will the next government continue full S.T.E.A.M ahead after the April 24, 2023 General Elections?
Well, the president of the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), Sharie de Castro, speaking at a handing-over ceremony on Wednesday, March 15 where Maples and Calder donated music equipment to the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS), said not only was S.T.E.A.M, “truly the mandate of the Ministry of Education for this new school year,” but there has been a focus on the art component this time around.
De Castro said over the years, the focus has been on the technical areas, but studies have shown that the art component is very important.
“There’s been long discussions, there’s data that supports the reality of the importance of the arts in education,” she told the gathering at the ESHS Music Department.
“Oftentimes we focus on STEM [science, technology, engineering, and mathematics] and there has been a huge mandate for that over the years but the arts aspect of it is what we are seeking to truly begin to blossom.”
De Castro said the arts in the territory, especially music, were affected by the ravages of the two hurricanes.
She continued: “… For years, as an example, the music programme at the Elmore Stoutt High School flourished, and of course, due to the hurricanes they would have faced a great hit in terms of the resources that would have been available to truly allow the talent to continue to blossom and prosper.”
On behalf of the education ministry, De Castro expressed her gratitude to Maples for their donation 62 new musical instruments — two bass guitars, seven alto saxophones, 15 clarinets, 15 flutes, five trombones, three tenor saxophones, and 15 trumpets — to the ESHS Music Programme.
Richard May, the managing partner of Maples and Calder law firm, during his remarks at the handing-over ceremony, suggested that more attention needs to be given to the development of art education in the territory.
“The arts generally is something that is woefully undersupported here – because of the pressures – it is not because people dont want to do it,” he said. “So we are very happy to support it [the arts – music department] again.”
John Primo, the director of procurement at the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), is also a supporter of the musical art form. He told the students at the ceremony that, according to reports, playing musical instruments “makes you smarter”.
“A few researchers have determined that musical study develops critical thinking and self-discipline, as well as cognitive development, basic math and reading abilities at an early age. In addition to these skills, students who are involved in a music programme have a higher self-esteem, a greater sense of teamwork, better school attendance, and are less likely to become involved in gangs and substance abuse. We are confident that the students of this programme and this great school will produce some of the future leaders of this territory,” Primo said.
Local News
Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (MALE) BVI Movement Bolstered by $5,000 Drakes Traders Donation
The Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (MALE) BVI initiative has received a significant boost this holiday season, thanks to a $5,000 donation from Drakes Traders Ltd.
The generous contribution was presented to Henderson Tittle, president of MALE BVI, on December 17 at the company’s Fish Bay location.
Drakes Traders’ donation shows the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting transformative community initiatives aimed at empowering Virgin Islands youth.
MALE BVI, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to mentorship, education and community engagement, focuses on nurturing young men to become responsible leaders in their families and communities. Through programs such as mentorship workshops, counseling sessions, and father-son bonding activities, MALE BVI provides critical guidance and resources to young men in the territory.
“This generous donation will enable us to continue empowering young men to rise above challenges in their personal lives,” said Mr. Tittle. “Right now, we have a serious need to support and guide the young men in our society who are lacking positive role models. With this contribution, we can strengthen our programs to help them realize their potential and become productive members of the community. We are deeply grateful for Drakes Traders Ltd.’s unwavering support.”
Drakes Traders’ Managing Director, Christian Esser, emphasised the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of the territory’s youth. “As a family and as a company, we believe in coming together to build a stronger community. As the saying goes, ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ and we are proud to be part of that village. MALE BVI’s mission aligns perfectly with our values, and we are pleased to support their efforts,” said Mr. Esser.
The funds will help MALE BVI expand its offerings, including additional mentorship workshops and activities designed to instill values such as responsibility, respect, and resilience. These initiatives are critical in providing young men with a positive pathway and addressing the lack of role models many face.
MALE BVI is open to further support and donations to advance its mission. Individuals or organisations interested in contributing to this cause or seeking assistance can contact MALE BVI via email at mail.bvi@gmail.com or call/WhatsApp (284) 340-9140.
The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation has enriched the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School with a collection of books spotlighting the Virgin Islands’ rich history, heritage, and culture.
The donation, presented by Abigail O’Neal, Executive Director of the Foundation, comes as part of the organization’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural legacy while fostering a love for reading.
“Every school year, my father would donate books by local and other authors to schools throughout the Territory,” said O’Neal. “It’s my humble pleasure to carry on this tradition as part of the Foundation’s work.”
During her visit to the school, O’Neal found herself inspired by the students’ palpable enthusiasm for learning. One student proudly shared that he was juggling three books at once, a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and the students’ thirst for knowledge.
“It is so important that our children develop a love for the written word in all forms. Reading not only educates but expands one’s vision and transports readers to different worlds,” O’Neal emphasized.
The donation includes several rare and out-of-print titles, aligning with the Foundation’s mission to reintroduce pivotal historical works to the Virgin Islands community. These books, O’Neal explained, are vital for preserving the wisdom and lessons of the past.
Engaging with the students, she encouraged discussions about the significance of history. The students’ collective response — “Because those lessons can help us inform the future” — underscored the lasting impact of such initiatives.
O’Neal also commended the efforts of Ms. Powell and her teaching staff for creating an environment that fosters academic curiosity and excellence. She extended her gratitude to Victor International and the Johnson Family for their continued support of education in Virgin Gorda.
For more information, please contact: Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation
Educator and author Medita Malone Wheatley will unveil her latest edited book on Monday, May 6, titled, “A Snapshot of the Virgin Islands Secondary School Under Principal Carlisle Scott” at the Elmore Stoutt High School in the British Virgin Islands.
This compelling book offers a glimpse into the transformative tenure of Mr. Carlisle Scott, featuring firsthand accounts from students and teachers who were profoundly impacted by his leadership between 1956 and 1968.
Mrs. Wheatley, deeply influenced by Mr. Scott’s teachings, meticulously edited the text with a sense of duty and reverence, aiming to honour his legacy.
“For me, the launch of Mr. Scott’s book is a sacred obligation,” remarked Mrs. Wheatley. “His impact on secondary education has left an indelible mark on the Virgin Islands, resonating across various spheres, from socio-cultural to socio-economic realms.”
The book, filled with nostalgic testimonials and notes from Mr. Scott himself, boasts contributions from prominent figures including Elton Georges OBE, CMG; Canon Gibson, and Miss Adorothy Turnbull, among others.
Dr. Katherine Smith, Director of Culture, emphasized the profound link between education and societal development, praising Mrs. Wheatley’s endeavor to capture this connection.
“The individuals molded by Mr. Carlisle Scott at the Virgin Islands Secondary School went on to become pillars of society,” noted Dr. Smith. “Their achievements in diverse fields underscore the lasting impact of Mr. Scott’s leadership.”
The launch, set to take place at the Elmore Stoutt High School, promises to be a poignant event, offering attendees a chance to delve into the rich educational history of the Virgin Islands.
The Department of Culture encourages the public to join in celebrating local authors and preserving the cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands. For further details about the book launch program, individuals can contact the Department of Culture at 468-4379.
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