Youth/Education
Colourful display at 2023 Book Parade for pre-primary students (photos & videos)
(JTV News) — Activities in Education Week continued on Thursday, March 16 with the hosting of the 2023 Book Parade and Pre-primary Games by the Ministry of Education. (see photo gallery– by Sylvester Smith — below article)
According to the Ministry, Thursday is devoted to pre-primary students as the territory celebrates Education Week from March 13 to March 19 under the theme “Virgin Islands Education: Moving Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead”.
Preschools and grades K-2 from public and private primary schools showcased books that they have read, enjoyed, and recreated.
The parade began this morning around 9 a.m. and proceeded from the Noel Lloyd Park to the A.O. Shirley Grounds.
The Pre-primary Games, featuring students from grades K and 1, was held in the Multipurpose Sports Complex from 11 a.m.
Below, snapshots from the parade. * Photos by Sylvester Smith/JTV News
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.
Hon. Kye Rymer
The Public Works Department (PWD) has installed solar radar school zone signs at the Willard Wheatley Primary and the Ivan Dawson Primary Schools.
Director of the PWD, Mr. Jeremy Hodge, emphasised the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of the Territory’s children. He highlighted that the installation of these signs marks the commencement of a pilot project, with plans for further installations at other schools across the Territory in the pipeline.
“These signs read the speed of oncoming vehicles, alerting motorists of how fast they are travelling,” stated Mr. Hodge, underlining the functionality of the newly implemented radar signs.
Honourable Kye M. Rymer, Minister for Communications and Works, echoed the government’s commitment to advancing road safety initiatives during a recent session of the House of Assembly. He announced plans to introduce solar-powered crosswalk signals as another component of the Territory’s ongoing efforts to promote greener, safer, and more pedestrian-friendly environments.
“The solar-powered crosswalks are signage that flashes to get the attention of oncoming traffic, thereby bringing awareness to drivers that a pedestrian is intending to cross the street,” explained Honourable Rymer, emphasising the importance of these innovative safety measures.
Photos of the electronic crosswalks at the Willard Wheatley and Ivan Dawson Schools.
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