With classrooms set to re-open as soon as the school buildings are inspected and approved, Education Minister, Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has said that in the first two weeks, no new topics will we taught. Photo: GIS/File

On Friday, September 18, 2020, the Minister announced that despite some fears over COVID-19 pandemic, classrooms will re-open for some students given good handling of the virus pandemic by local authorities. Photo: VINO/File

He said that while the Ministry has been able to commence the distribution of Virgin Islands Digital Education (VIDE) ahead of the start of a new school year, the decision to delay teaching came as a result of some challenges, which have resulted in the interruption to the distribution schedule.

Extensive damages to devices

“I was disappointed to learn about the extensive damages to the loaned devices. This lack of due care and attention to protecting these loaned devices have contributed to the current challenges. I wish to give parents the assurance, however, that the Unit is working tirelessly to make additional VIDES available and to create alternative solutions to the existing challenges,” Hon Wheatley said in a statement released on Friday, September 18, 2020.

He said, however, that systems are in place to ensure that students can access materials via email through their school accounts.  

“I know that some parents in Grades 7 to 9 are becoming anxious because they have not yet received their VIDES. However, I wish to assure them that during these first two weeks, no new material will be taught.”

Instead, the emphasis will be placed on various orientations, providing psychosocial support, coping strategies, COVID-19 health and safety tips, classroom etiquette, classroom expectations, including online etiquette, Hon Wheatley said. 

Preparing students for term

More so, teachers will also provide an overview of the course material for the term, and well as guidelines for submission of assignment and academic ethics.

“During week two, emphasis will be on building basic subject readiness skills. By the end of this period, we expect to have solved the existing challenges,” he said.

Also on Friday, the Minister announced that despite some fears over COVID-19 pandemic, classrooms will re-open for some students given good handling of the virus pandemic by local authorities.