Virgin Islands Department of Education Expresses Profound Gratitude to FEMA for School Improvement Funds

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is pleased to announce the receipt of federal funding awards from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for crucial school improvement projects. With deep appreciation, the VIDE extends its sincerest thanks to FEMA for their commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure across the Territory.

These grant awards signify a pivotal moment for education in the Virgin Islands, allowing for the development of much-needed new schools and the modernization of existing facilities with a focus on equity for all students. Through the flexibility provided by Congress in the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA), the VIDE is empowered to utilize these funds to address critical infrastructure needs and create an environment conducive to optimal learning experiences for our students.

It is important for the public to understand that the grant awards encompass various aspects of the improvement process beyond construction alone. In addition to funding for construction, resources are allocated for essential components such as land acquisition, project management, demolition, and design. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of the improvement projects is meticulously planned and executed to the highest standards.

As part of this initiative, the Lew Muckle School and PreK-6 School, as well as the Eulalie Rivera PreK-8 School, will be merged into the modernized and expanded Alfredo Andrews and Alexander Henderson Schools. Concurrently, the decision has been made to shutter Leonard Dober Elementary School, which is currently not utilized for instructional purposes.

The VIDE recognizes the significance of these developments in shaping the future of education in the Virgin Islands and remains committed to transparent communication throughout the implementation process. As we embark on this transformative journey, we invite the community to join us in celebrating this milestone and supporting our collective efforts to provide the best possible educational opportunities for our students.

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Virgin Islands Department of Education State Office of Curriculum and Instruction Launches Student Initiative to Compile Biographies on Virgin Islanders of Distinction

The Virgin Islands Department of Education’s (VIDE) State Office of Curriculum and Instruction proudly announces the launch of an exciting initiative inviting students to participate in compiling biographies on Virgin Islanders of Distinction. This unique opportunity aims to honor the remarkable achievements of local Virgin Islanders while engaging students in a meaningful learning experience.

The initiative encourages students to research and write biographies highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of Virgin Islanders across various fields, including but not limited to arts, aviation, business, culture, education, entertainment, history, humanitarianism, law, literature, math, military, music, politics, science, sports, and technology. Submitted biographies will be compiled and made accessible to the VIDE and the wider community through the GoOpenUSVI Microsite.

As an added incentive, select student-submitted biographies will be featured in the upcoming VI History textbooks for 3rd through 8th grade, currently under development for classroom use across the territory. This presents students with an exciting opportunity to become published authors while delving into the rich tapestry of Virgin Islands history.

While space limitations may prevent inclusion of every submitted biography to be placed in the textbook, all submissions that meet the criteria will be included on the Social Studies Hub of the GoOpenUSVI Microsite for community access.

This opportunity empowers students to become authors of their own history by documenting the stories of Virgin Islanders who have made significant contributions to our community. This initiative not only fosters a deeper understanding of our local history but also provides students with a platform to showcase their research and writing skills.

Students will receive a criteria and guidelines for crafting the biographies. Schools are invited to join in celebrating the achievements of Virgin Islanders and empowering our students to become stewards of their heritage through the art of storytelling.

To participate in this initiative, students are required to utilize their VIDE student accounts and access the submission form via the QR Code or the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/ANiV791zAW

For additional information please contact the State Office of Curriculum and Instruction at 340-773-1095.

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