Virgin Islands Ministry of Education Launches Professional Development Series for Educators

The Ministry of Education in the Virgin Islands has launched a comprehensive Professional Development Series for educators, in collaboration with the Institute of Education at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC). This initiative, which began in September and will run through January 2025, aims to equip teachers with modern tools, strategies, and knowledge to meet the evolving needs of students.

Acting Chief Education Officer, Orlandette Crabbe, emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing educator support, stating, “Professional development for educators remains a top priority, as we continue our commitment to reimagining education in the Virgin Islands. By investing in our teachers, we ensure they are equipped with the most up-to-date tools and strategies to meet the evolving needs of their students.”

Crabbe also underscored the importance of the collaboration with HLSCC, noting that the partnership has been pivotal in building the capacity of Virgin Islands educators. “We look forward to future initiatives that will further strengthen this partnership and continue supporting the professional growth of our teachers,” she added.

The series offers sessions covering a range of critical topics, including innovative teaching techniques, classroom management, technology integration, and student engagement practices. These topics were chosen based on feedback from educators, ensuring relevance to the needs identified at all levels of the education system.

Sessions are designed in a multi-part format, allowing educators to explore concepts in depth and apply them in their classrooms. Participants will gain insights, actionable strategies, and valuable resources, with the ultimate goal of improving student outcomes. Additionally, the program fosters peer collaboration, encouraging the exchange of experiences and the cultivation of a professional growth culture among teachers.

Importantly, the Professional Development Series is being offered at no cost to educators, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to making continuous learning accessible and impactful.

Stephen Joseph, the newly appointed Director of the Institute of Education at HLSCC, expressed enthusiasm for leading the initiative. “We are honoured to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to empower educators in the Virgin Islands. The Institute of Education is dedicated to advancing innovative and inclusive education practices,” Joseph said.

He added, “Our mission is to prepare teachers who are not only skilled professionals but also advocates for social justice and community engagement. This Professional Development Series exemplifies our commitment to fostering teaching excellence and improving educational standards across the Territory.”

Educators interested in the series can register by scanning the QR code in the program flyer or using the provided registration link. For more information, educators are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Education or the HLSCC Institute of Education.