Remarks by Honourable Sharie B. de Castro

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports

Special Education Week November 27 - December 1

November 27th 2023

I greet you today with a sense of deep purpose and urgency as we approach an important event in our calendar—Anti-Bullying Week 2023. This week holds immense significance, not only for our educational institutions but for our entire community.

I am delighted to announce the upcoming celebration of "Reading is Fun Week" in our beautiful territory, which will take place from Monday, October 9 to Friday, October 13, 2023, under the inspiring theme, "Reimagining Reading Beyond the Book." This week represents our unwavering commitment to enhancing the literacy skills of our students and fostering a lifelong love for reading.

Teachers, I hope this message finds you all in good health and high spirits. Today, as we commemorate World Teachers' Day, I am honored to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment, dedication, and tireless efforts in shaping the future of our beloved Virgin Islands.

Madam Speaker, this year we commemorate the 80th anniversary of secondary education in the Virgin Islands, a milestone that reflects the dedication and vision of stalwart educators and the unwavering commitment of our community.

His Excellency the Governor Mr. John J. Rankin CMG and Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley showed their support to the students of the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre (EHRLC) and the Enis Adams Primary School (EAPS)

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports will be observing Anti-Bullying Week from Sunday 15^th to Saturday, 21^st October.

The Ministry of Education is advising the public that the Ivan Dawson Primary School will remain closed today, Friday, October 6 due to the extensive impact of the flood on the water source and the school grounds.

This Flash Back Friday Secondary Students engaged at the Summer Institute Robotics segment. It is from this engagement that students were selected to represent the Territory at the annual international FIRST Global Robotics Championships to be held in Singapore from October 7 to 10.