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.

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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.

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.

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