Orlandette Crabbe Named Chief Education Officer in the Virgin Islands

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports has officially appointed Orlandette Crabbe as Chief Education Officer, confirming her role after serving in an acting capacity. Her tenure will take effect in June 2024.

In her new position, Crabbe will oversee the administration and management of the Department of Education, ensuring that educational standards across the Territory are upheld and continually developed.

Crabbe brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked extensively within the education sector. Her career includes teaching positions at Belle Vue Primary School, Althea Scatliffe Primary School, and Ingleside Elementary in Norfolk, Virginia. She later advanced to leadership roles as Assistant Principal of Althea Scatliffe Primary and Principal of Joyce Samuel Primary. Additionally, she has served as an adjunct lecturer at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.

As Chief Education Officer, Crabbe will advise the Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports, oversee all schools within the education system, and spearhead educational planning initiatives.

Crabbe holds a Bachelor of Arts in Preschool, Pre-K, and Primary Education from Florida A&M University and a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education from Florida State University.

Dr. Marcia Potter, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, praised Crabbe’s appointment, emphasizing her contributions to the Territory’s education system.

“Education is the bedrock of any successful nation. Mrs. Crabbe has an extensive history of excellence within the Public Service, and we are excited at the opportunity for her to continue this progress as Chief Education Officer,” said Dr. Potter. “This is a critical role that plays a key part in shaping the minds of our students and future leaders. I wish her every success.”