In a letter to parents and guardians, Principal Vanessa Garraway stated that the decision was necessary due to the continued disruption. “Unfortunately, our ongoing water issues have not yet been resolved, and as a result, we must transition to virtual learning,” the letter read.

Garraway stressed that students are still expected to participate fully in their lessons. “Please ensure that your child understands this is NOT a free day,” she wrote. “We are continuing with regular instruction, just in an online format. LIVE sessions will be conducted, and students are expected to log in, participate, and engage fully in their lessons.”

The school urged parents to support the transition by ensuring students attend classes and complete their coursework. “We kindly ask for your support in ensuring that your child logs in and engages fully in their lessons,” the letter continued.

No timeline was given for when in-person learning will resume, but Garraway assured parents that updates would be provided as more information on the repair process becomes available. “We understand that this is an inconvenience, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation as we navigate this situation,” she said.

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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.

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PHOTO: Confiscated items displayed in a slideshow at the recent ESHS PTA meeting, highlighting ongoing security concerns.

– Unconfirmed Reports of Prohibited Items Confiscated

In response to mounting concerns over student safety, Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) conducted a surprise security sweep on campus this morning, February 5, leading to unconfirmed reports of prohibited items being confiscated. The search, which lasted well over an hour, was part of a broader initiative endorsed by the Ministry of Education to curb the presence of drugs, alcohol, weapons, and drug-infused foods within the school.

“The Ministry of Education fully supports the efforts of Elmore Stoutt High School to conduct random searches as part of a broader strategy to address the serious concerns of drugs, drug-infused foods, alcohol, and weapons on campus,” a Ministry spokesperson stated. “These measures align with our zero-tolerance policy and reinforce our unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment.”

The operation, which reportedly involved armed police officers assisting school officials, drew mixed reactions from parents. While many applauded the school’s firm stance on security, others expressed frustration over the extended process and attempted to take their children home. Additionally, unconfirmed reports suggest that some students attempted to breach security protocols to enter the premises during the search.

“It’s a necessary step,” said one concerned parent who wished to remain anonymous. “We’ve been hearing about these issues for a while now, and I’m glad the school is finally doing something serious about it. But communication with parents could have been better.”

The security sweep comes amid broader challenges faced by the school administration, including low parental engagement. With a student population of just over 1400, fewer than a third of parents actively participate in PTA meetings. The school has also struggled to get parents of at-risk students to engage with teachers despite employing various outreach strategies.

A recent round of one-on-one PTA meetings saw dismal attendance, prompting the administration to issue a follow-up letter urging parents to take advantage of additional opportunities to meet with teachers. The letter, posted on January 28 via the school’s official RAMS Facebook page, emphasised the importance of parental involvement in student success.

In the letter, school officials noted their concern about the low turnout, stating, “Too often, we see parents waiting until the end of the school year when their child is in jeopardy of failure.” They also warned parents that failure to attend the rescheduled meetings would result in their children being unable to return to classes. “Instead, they will be placed in a supervised room where their assignments will be provided, and they will remain there until a parent meets with their teachers,” the letter read.

The school administration also reiterated that parents who cannot attend the scheduled meetings may contact teachers directly to arrange alternative meetings or request phone conferences. “We kindly ask that you make every effort to attend or to contact your child’s teachers,” the letter urged.

Despite the challenges, school officials remain steadfast in their approach. “Tackling these issues will require some unorthodox and potentially inconvenient measures, but the safety of our students and teachers is paramount,” the Ministry’s statement read. “We appreciate the cooperation of parents and the wider community as we take the necessary steps to ensure that our students and staff are in the safe environment they deserve.”

Reports indicate that similar security concerns have been raised at Bregado Flax Educational Centre on Virgin Gorda, suggesting a wider issue affecting multiple institutions in the territory.

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The decision was made in consultation with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) to ensure the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff.

In a letter addressed to parents and guardians, dated May 2nd, 2024, the ESHS administration expressed their deep concern for the safety and well-being of students, faculty and staff. “Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff,” the letter read. “By transitioning to remote learning on Friday, May 3rd, we aim to provide a secure environment for all while facilitating the ongoing investigation by the police.”

The swift and decisive action was taken by the Ministry, in consultation with law enforcement officials.

“We sincerely appreciate your understanding and support during this time,” the letter continued. “The Ministry remains committed to ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for all students at the Elmore Stoutt High School.”

The Ministry of Education, overseeing ESHS, aims to provide a secure environment while facilitating the ongoing investigation by law enforcement.

Updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.

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