Celebrating 80 Years of Secondary Education in the Virgin Islands

Alfred Christopher and Jennie N. Wheatley’s Remarkable Contributions Remembered

The Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro, paid tribute to the 80th anniversary of secondary education in the Virgin Islands while addressing the House of Assembly on October 31st, 2023.

“This year we commemorate the 80th anniversary of secondary education in the Virgin Islands, a milestone that reflects the dedication and vision of stalwart educators and the unwavering commitment of our community,” Honourable de Castro stated. “The history of secondary education in our territory is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who championed the cause of knowledge and opportunity.”

The Education Minister highlighted the pivotal role played by Dr. Norwell Harrigan and Mr. Olva Flax, who laid the foundation for extending education beyond standard seven in 1938. Their vision culminated in the establishment of a secondary school in 1943, offering a curriculum that encompassed a wide range of subjects.

The Minister also acknowledged the instrumental role of Dr. Thomas Dixon Green as the Supervisor of Education and Headmaster during the critical early years of secondary education in the Virgin Islands.

Honourable DeCastro discussed the challenges that the institution faced in its early years, with its very existence under threat in 1947. It was the dedication of community activists that ensured its survival, and the moment of stability arrived with the students’ success at the Cambridge Examinations, prompting the renaming of the institution to the Virgin Islands Secondary School.

Secondary education in the Virgin Islands has had a profound impact on the development of the territory, Honourable de Castro emphasised. “The fact that students from distant communities were willing to walk the extra mile to access this education demonstrates that as a community, we have long recognised the value of a good education.”

As the Minister marked this remarkable milestone, she paid homage to the visionaries, educators, and activists who have played pivotal roles in shaping the educational landscape over the past eight decades. The legacy of secondary education in the Virgin Islands is one of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge, lighting the way for future generations.

Honourable de Castro also took the opportunity to honour two stalwart educators who recently passed away. Alfred Christopher, one of the first students of the Senior School in 1943, made significant contributions to extending secondary education to Anegada and the growth of the school in 1970. Jennie N. Wheatley (MBE), a beacon of knowledge and a culture-bearer, devoted over twenty-five years of her life to secondary education and served as Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs at the British Virgin Islands High School. Her leadership in developing the school library and other transformational initiatives has left an indelible mark on the institution and the entire territory.

The Minister celebrated all valiant secondary educators in the territory, emphasising their dedication and sacrifices over the years, which have collectively contributed to the development of a great institution and the future of the Virgin Islands.

Honourable de Castro urged everyone to celebrate this milestone with gratitude for those who have paved the way for students’ success and a brighter future for the Virgin Islands. “The journey of secondary education in our territory, spanning 80 years, is a testament of our collective spirit and unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and excellence as we commit to moving Virgin Islands Education: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead.”

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