Reopening of School in Saint Lucia to be addressed

Officials from the Education and Health ministries are scheduled to make an announcement regarding the proposed reopening of school during a press conference on Monday, August 24th at 12 pm. The panel will include Chief Education Officer Mrs. Fiona Mayer, the Ministry of Education’s Permanent Secretary Ms. Michelle Charles and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George. The press conference will be broadcast live on the National Television Network, and the officials are also expected to speak on the proposed format of the academic year.

“I am aware that there has been much anxiety by parents and the wider public regarding this pending announcement,” said Education Minister Dr. Gale Rigobert in a statement today. “However, with the circumstances that exist, given the fact that we are still dealing with COVID-19, we had to ensure that discussions were held with all of our major stakeholders and partners, ahead of any such pronouncements.”

She continued: “It is also prudent for us too, that whatever measures and protocols that we adopt, will ensure that the safety of our students, the staff, caretakers and others is of paramount importance at all times as we continue to minimize the negative impact of COVID-19 as a country.”

Dr. Rigobert indicated that she will also be addressing the nation next week to speak on the new school term, as well as other pertinent developments regarding Saint Lucia’s education sector.