Education
Arlene Smith-Thompson Raises Alarm Over Reading Literacy Gap in Virgin Islands School System
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.
The Virgin Islands reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with Down syndrome as the Social Development Department, through the Disability Services Division, hosted a Down Syndrome Awareness Motorcade, Sports, and Games Day last week.
Held at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, the event, themed “Improve Our Support Systems,” brought together families, caregivers, advocates, and community members in a day of celebration and awareness. Participants engaged in interactive games, sporting activities, and discussions aimed at highlighting the importance of strong support networks for individuals with Down syndrome.
The motorcade, a key feature of the event, traveled through Road Town, drawing attention to the cause and encouraging greater societal engagement in disability advocacy. Attendees, including government officials and representatives from various community organizations, echoed the call for continued improvements in support services, accessibility, and awareness initiatives.
Parents and caregivers also took the opportunity to share personal experiences, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in securing resources and services for individuals with Down syndrome in the territory.
The Social Development Department expressed gratitude for the community’s participation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening support systems for individuals with disabilities through continued advocacy and policy development.
Education
Ashaala Shanae Gives Back to Her High School’s Music Program in the British Virgin Islands
Renowned creative entrepreneur and philanthropist Ashaala Shanae has made a heartfelt donation to the music department of Elmore Stoutt High School in the British Virgin Islands, fulfilling a long-held aspiration to give back to the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping her career.
In a social media post reflecting on the moment, Shanae expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to support a cause close to her heart. “I’ve given a lot financially to worthy causes, organizations, and individuals over the last 10 years, many of them never made public,” she wrote. “However, this moment right here has been something I’ve been wanting to do for a few years, and the Lord orchestrated it so perfectly that I give Him all the glory.”
The artist and industry expert highlighted the profound impact Elmore Stoutt High School’s music program had on her journey, from a young aspiring musician to a leading figure in the creative industry. “To be able to make a humble donation to the place that literally shaped me and provided a safe haven for me as a teenager is nothing short of God’s perfect will,” she said.
Shanae also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of key figures in the British Virgin Islands’ education system who helped make the donation possible. She extended thanks to Dr. Arlene Smith-Thompson for facilitating the opportunity with the Ministry of Education, as well as Minister Sharie Watchman de Castro and Chief Education Officer Orlandette Rea Crabbe for their commitment to advancing creative and performing arts education.
The initiative aligns with her broader vision for nurturing talent within the region. Through her company, Vocal Wallstreet, she aims to support educational collaboration and provide resources for students pursuing careers in the creative arts. She also expressed appreciation for H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) President Richard Georges for his openness to continued dialogue in this area.
“There’s so much promise here in the BVI, and my goal is to do my best to support efforts that bring quality programs, resources, and opportunities to our youth and young adults,” Shanae stated.
As an influential voice in the industry, Shanae’s philanthropic contributions continue to inspire young creatives to pursue greater levels of success. Her latest gesture reaffirms her commitment to fostering artistic development in the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Elmore Stoutt High School will transition to virtual learning on Tuesday, February 25, as ongoing water issues remain unresolved, school officials announced.
In a letter to parents and guardians, Principal Vanessa Garraway stated that the decision was necessary due to the continued disruption. “Unfortunately, our ongoing water issues have not yet been resolved, and as a result, we must transition to virtual learning,” the letter read.
Garraway stressed that students are still expected to participate fully in their lessons. “Please ensure that your child understands this is NOT a free day,” she wrote. “We are continuing with regular instruction, just in an online format. LIVE sessions will be conducted, and students are expected to log in, participate, and engage fully in their lessons.”
The school urged parents to support the transition by ensuring students attend classes and complete their coursework. “We kindly ask for your support in ensuring that your child logs in and engages fully in their lessons,” the letter continued.
No timeline was given for when in-person learning will resume, but Garraway assured parents that updates would be provided as more information on the repair process becomes available. “We understand that this is an inconvenience, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation as we navigate this situation,” she said.
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