The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports opened the 2025–26 academic year Friday, August 29, during its annual Professional Day ceremony, announcing a record $67.4 million budget for education with an additional $1.8 million from a supplementary appropriation.
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Sharie B. de Castro said the investment represents the largest in the territory’s history, noting it is $11 million more than last year’s allocation. “Education is not an expense, it is a savings account. Every dollar deposited is a seed sown,” she said.
Renovations and upgrades were completed over the summer at Francis Lettsome, Enis Adams, Ebenezer Thomas, Joyce Samuel and Alexandrina Maduro Primary Schools, according to the ministry. Classrooms across the territory also received air-conditioning, electrical upgrades and safety improvements.
The minister announced that the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre will officially open on Sept. 8. The facility is described as the first purpose-built special education school in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States. She also presented designs for a new Althea Scatliffe Primary School, which she said will provide modern facilities for 21st-century learning.
In higher education, the government confirmed plans for H. Lavity Stoutt Community College to begin offering four-year degrees, starting with programs in education, allowing students and teachers to pursue advanced study without leaving the Virgin Islands.
Guest speaker Jordan Dawson, an alumnus of Elmore Stoutt High School and H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, urged teachers to focus on student-centered learning. “Teaching is not about you; it’s about unlocking each student’s unique potential. Be strategic, be intentional, and be strong,” Dawson said.
Chief Education Officer Orlandette Crabbe emphasized the new school year’s theme, “Full Steam Ahead: Future Focused, Student Led.” She said recent progress is evident in dual enrollment opportunities, improved exam results and greater student confidence.
Following Professional Day, teachers participated in a weeklong Summer Institute to prepare for the academic year through professional development sessions.
The ministry said its investments in infrastructure, training and new programs are part of a long-term effort to ensure all students in the Virgin Islands have access to high-quality education.
