Education
Dr. Quincy Lettsome, Ph.D, revered retired educator has passed away
Dr. Quincy Lettsome, a dedicated educator and influential figure in the British Virgin Islands, passed away today, February 13 at the age of 82 years.
He started his career as a primary school teacher and worked his way up to become a high school principal and later a curriculum development officer at the Ministry of Education.
Born in 1942 in Long Swamp, East End, Dr. Lettsome grew up in a time when agriculture was the main occupation in the BVI. He hailed from a family of six siblings and was raised with a strong sense of moral training. Education played a significant role in his upbringing, and he attended the East End Methodist School, which had a long history dating back to 1789.
In 1956, Dr. Lettsome became one of the pioneer commuting students of the Virgin Islands Secondary School. He commuted daily from East End to town, thanks to the assistance of the late Honourable Leslie Malone, who provided transportation. Dr. Lettsome excelled academically and was an athletic champion during his time at school.
After graduating in 1960, Dr. Lettsome embarked on a teaching career, starting at the Post-Primary Department of the Road Town Primary School in 1961. He later pursued further education at the Leeward Islands Teachers Training College in Antigua, graduating in 1965. Dr. Lettsome then served as the principal of Cane Garden Bay Methodist School for two years, where he faced challenges but found great fulfillment in directing the lives of young children and teachers.
In 1968, Dr. Lettsome was transferred to the Road Town Primary School, the largest primary school in the BVI at that time. He became an influential figure in education, serving as the president of the BVI Teachers Association and advocating for better pay for teachers. Dr. Lettsome’s dedication and efforts led to an increase in teacher salaries, benefiting not only educators but all civil servants.
Dr. Lettsome’s passion for education and his expertise in curriculum development led him to join the Education Department in 1986 as a curriculum officer. He held a master’s degree in curriculum development and completed his Ph.D. in the same field in 1991. Dr. Lettsome continued to contribute to education until his retirement in 2003, accumulating an impressive 43 years of service.
Throughout his career, Dr. Lettsome impacted the lives of countless students and colleagues, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of education in the British Virgin Islands. His commitment to providing quality education and his dedication to the betterment of teachers’ lives will always be remembered.
Dr. Quincy Lettsome will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the BVI community. His contributions to education will continue to inspire future generations. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the remarkable life and achievements of this remarkable educator.
Education
Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Dinner Supports Culinary Education
The British Virgin Islands Food and Wine Festival is set to host an event that promises to tantalise the taste buds while supporting a noble cause.
On Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Rosewood Little Dix Bay, the culinary world’s luminaries will converge for an evening of culinary mastery in support of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College Culinary Studies Program.
Leading the charge are the esteemed Chef Brent Lettsome, Chef Michael Ferrero, Chef Freddy Money, Chef Josie Smith Malave and Chef Andrew Gaskin, a dream team of world-renowned culinary masters. Each brings their unique expertise and flair to the table, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
The event, organised by The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation, aims to bolster the Culinary Studies Program at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, nurturing the next generation of culinary talents in the British Virgin Islands.
But the evening is not just about food; it’s about community and education. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Culinary Studies Program, providing students with access to essential resources, scholarships and opportunities for growth in the culinary arts.
To ensure an unforgettable experience for all attendees, a charter boat will depart from Road Town at 4:30 PM, ferrying guests to Rosewood Little Dix Bay.
Tickets for this exclusive event are priced at $300 per person or $500 for couples, with all proceeds going towards supporting culinary education in the British Virgin Islands.
Reserve your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience at The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation Dinner.
Education
Governor Participates in Teach for A Day Initiative at ESHS
As part of Education Month, Governor Daniel Pruce of the territory embraced the opportunity to engage in the Department for Education’s Teach for A Day initiative.
Stepping into the shoes of an educator, he joined Ms. Sylvanna Charles’ Grade 9 class at Elmore Stoutt High School for a session centered around the works of English poet Rupert Brooke.
Governor Pruce facilitated a discussion on Rupert Brooke’s poetry, inviting young minds to delve into themes and interpretations.
Reflecting on the experience, the Governor expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its significance in shaping the educational landscape and fostering community engagement. He remarked, “This is a way to give people an opportunity to contribute to the school curriculum, and help invest in the future of the Territory.”
Impressed by the enthusiasm and inquisitiveness of the Grade 9 pupils, the Governor commended their active participation and questions. He added, “I enjoyed my session with the Grade 9 pupils – a group with some questions.”
The Teach for A Day initiative not only provided a platform for community leaders to connect with students but also underscored the collective commitment towards nurturing an educational environment.
Education
BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission Hosts Film Development Workshop with James Bland
On March 1st, the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission launched their Film Development Workshop featuring James Bland, an actor and award-winning producer, as the Special Guest Facilitator.
The event focused on various aspects of filmmaking, with a particular emphasis on screenplay writing, as shared by James Bland.
The workshop aimed to support and develop talent within the Virgin Islands film industry, providing exposure to industry professionals like Bland.
Participants gained insights and knowledge to enhance their skills in filmmaking, leaving the event equipped with valuable tools to advance in the industry.
The BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission reiterated their commitment to fostering growth and excellence in the local film community, promising continued support for future initiatives.
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