Education
Ministry of Education Expresses Concern Over Lack of Prior Notice for Industrial Action
– Vows to Address Teacher Concerns and Ensure Student Safety
In response to the recent industrial action taken by teachers at Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS), the Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Sports, Hon. Sharie B. de Castro along with the Acting Permanent Secretary Claude Kettle and the Acting Chief Education Officer Orlandette Crabbe, met with the administration and staff of ESHS on Tuesday, September 26, to discuss the issues at hand.
The Ministry acknowledged that there was a significant communication gap, which hindered their ability to fully understand and address the concerns of the teachers. They emphasised the importance of open and constructive dialogue as the primary means to address concerns and improve the educational system.
The Education team also highlighted the need for any industrial action to be considered through a structured and responsible process, in accordance with internationally recognized standards outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The Ministry stated that they did not receive prior notice of the grievances or the planned industrial action, which took place on September 15. As a result, they were unable to take corrective action or ensure the safety and well-being of the students during that time. However, the Ministry remains committed to addressing the concerns of the teachers while maintaining order and safety within educational institutions.
In response to the specific concerns raised by the teachers, the Ministry outlined several steps they have taken. Efforts to improve the school compound and facilities have included grass cutting, utilising available classrooms and tents for lunch seating with supervision, and ongoing recruitment for a vacant janitorial position. Immediate action has also been taken to address extreme heat with fan procurement, and the maintenance of the air conditioning system is in progress. Mold assessments, electrical voltage and socket issues have been reported to the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), and efforts to enhance internet connectivity are underway.
The Ministry is also focused on timely curriculum resource procurement, addressing adequate space for staff, and prioritising teachers in the salary review process.
The meeting concluded with an agreement by the majority of teachers not to engage in any future industrial action without first giving notice and allowing the Ministry a reasonable opportunity to address concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of the students.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to resolving all outstanding issues collaboratively and fostering effective communication with all stakeholders. They encouraged open and honest dialogue in the coming days and pledged to maintain consistent communication channels to address concerns promptly. The Ministry remains dedicated to providing a safe, conducive, and well-resourced learning environment for students and teachers at Elmore Stoutt High School.
ADVERTISEMENT
Education
`Stay in School’ Message Echoed at Willock’s D3 Back to School 2024
Former Speaker of the House of Assembly and Third District resident, Mr. Julian Willock, delivered on his annual promise of giving back to the community with his 2024 Back to School initiative. Under the theme “3 hours, 3 schools, District 3,” Willock and his team made donations to three schools in Sea Cows Bay, reinforcing the importance of education for the youth.
The event kicked off at the Seventh-day Adventist School, continued at St. George’s Secondary School and concluded at Ebenezer Thomas Primary School. During each stop, Willock and his District Three Committee handed over books, bags and essential school supplies to help students in the upcoming academic year.
Accompanying Willock were two prominent members of his 30-member committee: businessman Ricky E. Conner, owner of the local band OMG, and former firefighter Joseph A. Fahie, both from the Sea Cows Bay community. Speaking to the students, Conner emphasised the critical role education plays in shaping the future, urging them to stay in school and work toward becoming the next generation of legislators, entrepreneurs, and professionals. “You are the future leaders, and your education is the key to those dreams,” Conner told the students.
Fahie shared personal reflections, recalling his school days when supplies were scarce. He expressed his pride in being part of a committee that ensures today’s students have the resources needed to succeed. “I didn’t always have books or bags growing up, so I’m honored to help make a difference for students now,” Fahie remarked.
Willock explained that the donations were made directly to the schools, allowing teachers and administrators to distribute supplies to students facing challenges throughout the 2024/2025 academic year. The goal, he said, was to make sure no child is left behind due to lack of resources.
The principals and representatives of the participating schools were on hand to receive the donations. Representing the Seventh-day Adventist School was High School Supervisor Mr. Ron E. Hemerding, while St. George’s Principal Ms. Odalys Gonzalez accepted on behalf of her school. Ebenezer Thomas Primary School was represented by Zubida K. O’Neal, Instructional Leader of Mathematics, on behalf of Principal Ms. Ashkisha N. Maduro.
The event was made possible through sponsorship from local businesses, including Nanny Cay Resort, BDO Limited, Northam Construction, IAM Jet Centre, Gumption’s Experience BVI, and Nagico Insurance, with additional support from Willock’s Third District Committee and Ms. Kishma P. Forbes of Virgin Islands School and Office Supplies.
Education
School Closure on Anegada as Power Outage Disrupts Island
Education
HLSCC Expands Global Educational Pathway with CMI Level 3 Diploma
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Search Underway After Vessel Capsizes Off Jost Van Dyke, One Dead, One Missing
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Oil Spill Forces Temporary Road Closure in Fish Bay
-
Local News1 week ago
Thirty-Six Naturalized as British Citizens in Ceremony at Government House
-
Education2 weeks ago
Eighty Virgin Islands Public Officers Complete Customer Service Training
-
Elections 20232 weeks ago
Virgin Islands Releases 2024 Preliminary Voters List for Public Review
-
Local News2 weeks ago
British Virgin Islands Premier Leads Delegation to London for Key Talks on Governance, Finance, and Climate Change
-
Local News1 week ago
Major Road Rehabilitation Projects Underway
-
Education2 days ago
HLSCC Expands Global Educational Pathway with CMI Level 3 Diploma