Education
HLSCC Welcomes Large Turnout of Students for Fall 2023 Orientation
Highest Number of Dually Enrolled Students Recorded
The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) in Paraquita Bay experienced an impressive surge in new applicants, parents, and guardians during the fall 2023 orientation held this past Monday.
The campus was abuzz with activity as faculty, staff, and volunteers warmly greeted the incoming students and provided them with branded giveaways upon their arrival. The orientation program was packed with informative sessions, comprehensive tours of the campus facilities, including classrooms, labs, and recreational areas, and a delightful complimentary buffet. To add to the excitement, an exhibition volleyball game was organized in the afternoon.
This semester, HLSCC proudly announced a record-breaking number of dually enrolled students. A total of seventy high school seniors from Elmore Stoutt High School, Bregado Flax Educational Centre, and Ciboney School of Excellence joined other college freshmen at the orientation session, which took place on July 14th. Dually enrolled students refer to high school students who are simultaneously taking high school and college courses, allowing them to earn college credits while completing their secondary education. This achievement highlights the increased interest and dedication of students in pursuing higher education and gaining a head start in their academic journey.
While registrations for returning students are ongoing until 25th August 2023, a significant number of returning students are expected to register for classes this Fall. HLSCC invites prospective students to “Get Started at HLSCC and Finish your Degree Anywhere.” The college, known for its accreditation and affordability, offers tuition assistance for BVIslanders and Belongers. With a wide range of degree and certificate programs, HLSCC ensures that students receive a quality education and training, equipping them with the necessary skills to secure good jobs, transfer to four-year institutions, upgrade their existing skills, or acquire new ones to remain competitive in the global marketplace.
Prospective students are reminded that it’s not too late to register for courses. HLSCC emphasizes that the best investment one can make is in oneself. Classes are scheduled to begin on 28th August 2023, so seize the opportunity to shape your future today.
For more information, contact HLSCC at 284-852-7167.
Let Your Tomorrow Begin Today!
Education
Severe Weather Forces Closure of All Public Schools
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, under guidance from the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), has mandated the closure of all public schools across the British Virgin Islands today. This precautionary measure prioritises the safety of students, teachers, and staff amid predictions of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and cloudy spells expected to impact the region throughout the day.
In a statement addressed to parents and community members, the Ministry underscored the importance of safety given the unpredictable nature of the weather conditions. “Students and teachers are asked to remain at home,” Hoyles stated. “We encourage teachers to provide assignments through online platforms where feasible, though some areas may face disruptions due to power outages.”
The closure decision comes as the DDM anticipates potential hazards posed by the heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, with risks to transportation and infrastructure. To mitigate these impacts, officials are urging residents to monitor updates closely and take all necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
The DDM and Ministry officials will continue to assess the weather conditions throughout the day. Parents and guardians are advised to keep updated through official government communications. For any inquiries, the Ministry can be reached at (284) 468-2151 or via their website at www.bvi.gov.vg.
Education
Winners Recognised in Territory’s Anti-Bullying Speech Competition
The winners of the annual Primary and Secondary Schools Anti-Bullying Speech Competition were celebrated during an awards ceremony held on Wednesday, October 16, at Elmore Stoutt High School. The competition, which aims to raise awareness and promote positive actions against bullying, saw impressive speeches from students across the Territory.
In the primary school division, Amiah Chang of Claudia Creque Educational Centre Primary claimed the top prize, with John Claude Vergara from St. George’s Primary School finishing in second place. Marla-Monae Gray of Jost Van Dyke Primary School earned third place.
In the secondary school category, Yasmeen Said of St. George’s Secondary Division won first place. Carey-Ann McKie from Bregado Flax Educational Centre came in second, while Adrianne Thomas from Elmore Stoutt High School placed third.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports congratulated all participants, highlighting their contributions to the Territory’s anti-bullying campaign. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive educational environment, and thanked the students for their efforts in spreading awareness about the importance of eliminating bullying in schools.
This initiative aligns with the ministry’s broader goal to reimagine education in the Virgin Islands, creating safe spaces where students can thrive both academically and socially.
Education
Virgin Islands Ministry of Education Launches Professional Development Series for Educators
The Ministry of Education in the Virgin Islands has launched a comprehensive Professional Development Series for educators, in collaboration with the Institute of Education at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC). This initiative, which began in September and will run through January 2025, aims to equip teachers with modern tools, strategies, and knowledge to meet the evolving needs of students.
Acting Chief Education Officer, Orlandette Crabbe, emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing educator support, stating, “Professional development for educators remains a top priority, as we continue our commitment to reimagining education in the Virgin Islands. By investing in our teachers, we ensure they are equipped with the most up-to-date tools and strategies to meet the evolving needs of their students.”
Crabbe also underscored the importance of the collaboration with HLSCC, noting that the partnership has been pivotal in building the capacity of Virgin Islands educators. “We look forward to future initiatives that will further strengthen this partnership and continue supporting the professional growth of our teachers,” she added.
The series offers sessions covering a range of critical topics, including innovative teaching techniques, classroom management, technology integration, and student engagement practices. These topics were chosen based on feedback from educators, ensuring relevance to the needs identified at all levels of the education system.
Sessions are designed in a multi-part format, allowing educators to explore concepts in depth and apply them in their classrooms. Participants will gain insights, actionable strategies, and valuable resources, with the ultimate goal of improving student outcomes. Additionally, the program fosters peer collaboration, encouraging the exchange of experiences and the cultivation of a professional growth culture among teachers.
Importantly, the Professional Development Series is being offered at no cost to educators, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to making continuous learning accessible and impactful.
Stephen Joseph, the newly appointed Director of the Institute of Education at HLSCC, expressed enthusiasm for leading the initiative. “We are honoured to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to empower educators in the Virgin Islands. The Institute of Education is dedicated to advancing innovative and inclusive education practices,” Joseph said.
He added, “Our mission is to prepare teachers who are not only skilled professionals but also advocates for social justice and community engagement. This Professional Development Series exemplifies our commitment to fostering teaching excellence and improving educational standards across the Territory.”
Educators interested in the series can register by scanning the QR code in the program flyer or using the provided registration link. For more information, educators are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Education or the HLSCC Institute of Education.
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