Education

Arlene Smith-Thompson Raises Alarm Over Reading Literacy Gap in Virgin Islands School System

Published

1 year ago

September 11, 2023

Editor

Arlene Smith Thompson, a passionate education advocate, delivered a captivating speech on September 7 to the Rotary Club of Central Tortola, shedding light on the urgent need to bridge the widening literacy gap among young students in the Virgin Islands.

With valuable insights and personal anecdotes, Thompson emphasized the crucial role of literacy in fostering lifelong learning and achievements. Drawing from her consultations with education experts, she shed light on the pressing literacy challenges faced by students in the Virgin Islands and proposed potential solutions.

Thompson’s deep connection to the issue of literacy stems from her family background. Growing up with a mother who was a dedicated primary school educator, she was instilled with the belief that literacy is fundamental to success. Thompson’s son, Khalil, also experienced the frustration of teaching English to students who struggled with reading and comprehension. These personal experiences have fueled Thompson’s unwavering commitment to closing the literacy gap among young learners.

The literacy gap, particularly in reading, has become a cause for concern within the Virgin Islands school system. While the overall literacy rate in the BVI stands at an impressive 97%, Thompson highlighted the presence of low academic attainment and underachievement among certain demographics of young students. If left unaddressed, these literacy deficits can have long-term negative consequences for these students.

Thompson further emphasized that the global COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of the 2017 hurricanes have exacerbated literacy deficiencies among students in the Virgin Islands. Citing a 2018 United Nations report, she pointed out that more than half of children and youth worldwide struggle to achieve proficiency in reading and math. Although the scale of the problem may be larger in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Central and Southern Asia, the Caribbean region also faces challenges with substandard literacy rates in certain communities and school systems.

According to Thompson, one significant factor contributing to the literacy gap is the allure of the internet and social media platforms, which compete for students’ attention alongside a multitude of apps and games. She also highlighted the increasing popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which poses a threat to literacy skills and the intellectual development of future generations. Additionally, shorter attention spans among students in classrooms and a lack of interest in traditional texts and literature with lengthy passages contribute to the literacy gap. Students are more drawn to selective readings online that relate to their daily lives.

Thompson further emphasized the lack of commitment to controlled reading as an activity in some schools and the absence of structured reading activities in many homes. She noted that communities lacking libraries, including mobile ones, face challenges in promoting purposeful reading.

Recognizing the need for standardized data collection to accurately assess the current literacy challenges, Thompson highlighted the Ministry of Education’s plans to implement standardized literacy testing from Grades 1 to 12 in public schools. Private institutions have already adopted their own systems for testing literacy levels. Data collection from preschools and the revival of after-school programs in communities are also part of the efforts to address the literacy gap.

Thompson commended Rotary International for its contributions to literacy awareness campaigns in the Virgin Islands, including book drives, outdoor libraries, and spelling bee competitions. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between Rotary and educational organizations to effectively address the literacy gap.

As the Ministry of Education prepares to celebrate Reading is Fun Week, Thompson urged Rotary International to support the initiative by donating books by local authors and working towards modernizing school libraries or creating library spaces within classrooms. She also highlighted the need for durable library carts in schools and educational games for older students to stimulate their interest in purposeful reading.

Thompson concluded by emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes to effectively close the literacy gap. She highlighted the need for sustained commitment between governmental and civil society organizations, encompassing advocacy and policy development, awareness and mobilization, community-based programs, partnerships and collaboration, technology and digital literacy, teacher training and capacity building, and monitoring and advocacy.

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Crime/Police

Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown

Published

2 days ago

February 21, 2025

Editor

PHOTO: Confiscated items displayed in a slideshow at the recent ESHS PTA meeting, highlighting ongoing security concerns.

A crackdown on contraband at Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) has sparked heated confrontations between parents and school officials, with administrators raising concerns about aggressive behavior from guardians and a troubling rise in prohibited items on campus.

In a letter sent to parents on February 20, Principal Vanessa Garraway revealed that routine searches at the school uncovered a significant amount of contraband and illegal substances among students. The alarming findings prompted stricter policies and the involvement of School Resource Officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). However, instead of cooperation, some parents have responded with hostility.

“We have seen an increase in parents arriving at school and behaving aggressively towards teachers and administrators,” the letter stated. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated.”

The issue of contraband at the school has been growing, and the administration is now taking a tougher stance. Effective February 24, students caught with prohibited items will not only face confiscation but will also be sent home immediately, with an accompanying suspension. Parents will be required to collect their child in such cases.

“We need parents to do more,” Garraway urged in the letter. “It is your responsibility to check your child’s belongings before they leave for school and have open conversations about the importance of following school rules and making positive choices.”

In response to the escalating situation, School Resource Officers have been stationed on campus to curb violent incidents, monitor student behavior, and enforce discipline. Their presence aims to deter misconduct, particularly in light of growing concerns over students making threats, whether serious or in jest. The school has made it clear that any such threats will be reported directly to the RVIPF.

“We are taking a no-nonsense approach,” Garraway wrote, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

The Ministry of Education has also weighed in, calling on parents to take a more active role in supporting efforts to maintain a secure learning environment. “Recent routine inspections continue to uncover prohibited items which pose serious risks to students’ health and well-being,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry reiterated that matters involving weapons, alcohol, and drugs will be referred to the RVIPF and the Social Development Department for further intervention. Additionally, officials reminded parents that mobile phones are not among the approved devices for use during the school day.

“We are reinforcing a Zero Tolerance Policy for any behavior or possession of items that compromise school safety,” the Ministry stated. “Our goal is to provide a safe and secure learning environment where students can focus on their education without unnecessary disruptions.”

As ESHS moves forward with these new measures, school officials and the Ministry of Education continue to uphold policies aimed at ensuring a structured and secure environment for all students.

Education

Elmore Stoutt High School and HLSCC Unite to Expand College Opportunities

Published

2 weeks ago

February 12, 2025

Editor

Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) and H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) have partnered to host the Annual College Fair on Thursday, February 13.

The event, scheduled from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM at the Multipurpose Sports Complex, will bring together representatives from 21 colleges and universities worldwide, offering students and community members an expansive platform to explore post-secondary education options.

Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Orlandette Crabbe, underscored the significance of the initiative, highlighting the strengthened link between secondary and tertiary education. “ESHS has consistently hosted a college fair, but by joining forces with HLSCC, we are creating a more impactful opportunity for our students. This collaboration not only broadens students’ exposure to a wider range of institutions but also strengthens the bridge between secondary education and post-secondary pathways. With HLSCC as a key partner, we are equipping students with the information, resources, and direct connections they need to make informed decisions about their futures.”

Dr. Richard Georges, President of HLSCC, echoed this sentiment, reflecting on his own academic journey. “As a proud alumnus of the then BVI High School and HLSCC, from which I transferred to complete my baccalaureate, I am gladdened to see us take this step together. I commend the CEO for her leadership and vision in this regard.”

Open to the public, the fair aims to serve not only high school students but also parents seeking guidance on college planning and former students considering returning to higher education. A major attraction will be the opportunity for students to receive on-the-spot acceptances from select institutions by providing their transcripts. Additionally, some universities will offer scholarships to eligible attendees, making the event a crucial gateway for those aspiring to further their education.

Among the participating institutions are 17 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Missouri Southern University, and St. George’s University in Grenada. Attendees will have access to a diverse selection of academic pathways spanning multiple regions and disciplines.

Education

St. George’s Secondary and VISTS Advance in Inter-Secondary School Debates

Published

2 weeks ago

February 6, 2025

Editor

St. George’s Secondary School and the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies (VISTS) have secured their spots in the semi-finals of the Ministry of Education’s annual Inter-Secondary School Debates.

The two schools will go head-to-head in the semi-final round on February 26. Meanwhile, Bregado Flax Educational Centre Secondary Division will take on Elmore Stoutt High School for a place in the finals.

Chief Education Officer, Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe, highlighted the significance of the debates, stating, “The Inter-Secondary School Debate Series is more than just a competition. It is a platform for developing essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. As we work towards transforming our education system, initiatives like this play a pivotal role in shaping students into confident, articulate, and analytical individuals who can engage meaningfully in discourse on national, regional, and global issues.”

Deputy Chief Education Officer Mrs. Heida Selwood praised the students for their strong performances, noting the high level of preparation and skill demonstrated throughout the debates.

“The 2025 debates are off to a strong start, with students delivering well-researched and compelling arguments,” Mrs. Selwood said. “The quality of the presentations was exceptional, with debaters maintaining composure under pressure and engaging in thoughtful discussions. It was truly inspiring to see their dedication.”

Mrs. Selwood added that the Ministry of Education remains committed to fostering an environment that encourages intellectual growth and spirited discourse. “The students embraced this challenge, demonstrating clear expression and the ability to engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives on societal issues,” she said.

Semi-Final Debate Schedule:

Debate #1

Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Venue: New Testament Church of God International Worship Centre
Moot: Mental Health Services Should Be Mandatory in All Schools
Proposition: Bregado Flax Educational Centre Secondary (BFEC)
Opposition: Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS)

Debate #2

Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Venue: New Testament Church of God International Worship Centre
Moot: Year-Round Tourism is Both Achievable and Sustainable in the Virgin Islands
Proposition: Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies (VISTS)
Opposition: St. George’s Secondary School

The impromptu speech competition will take place on March 12 during the final debate competition. The debates will also be streamed live on Facebook @BVIGovernment. For more information, contact Mrs. Selwood at the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports at 468–2035.