Tensions were high Saturday morning as Board of Education (BOE) members complained about lack of communication and information with the Department of Education (DOE). Ironically, the meeting was intended to foster communication, as the two bodies had not met in some time – as well as concerns, suggestions, and goals for the 2011-12 school year.
In her detailed opening presentation to the 20 or so in attendance, Commissioner of Education LaVerne Terry discussed long and short-term improvement plans, school maintenance plans, health and safety issues, policies and implementation. But some board members were apparently miffed that this was the first time they were learning of some projects and asked for data and results.
Several times, board members pointedly reminded the DOE that it was their legal responsibility to keep the BOE informed. Member Arah Lockhart noted that she would like to “explore more options for engaging the board.”
Budgets proved to be a cause for concern. The BOE received over $3 million this year for distribution, and expects to receive $2.7 million in 2012. BOE members continue to look for ways to save money, including an 8 percent pay cut for the 16 members.
V.I. schools’ compliance with national standards was also addressed. The DOE has proposed placing schools in red, yellow, and green categories to show which ones require review and action plans. All schools will undergo written review at the end of each year to discuss goals for the following year, AYP results, what was improved and how schools can use those improvements towards continued success.
Unfortunately, as board members pointed out, documents with results for last year were not readily available.
The board was also troubled that the DOE has spent a significant amount of time examining contractor bids instead of putting their maintenance plans into action. BOE members wondered if some of the summer construction would be complete at the beginning of the 2011-12 year. Though maintenance is carried out during the school year as well, it is essential to complete some projects during the summer so it does not hinder the students’ ability to learn.
For the time being, the DOE does not plan to close any more schools, but the question remains what to do with Evelyn Marcelli Elementary School. And member Janis Esannason pointed out the lack of qualified teachers and the lack of public knowledge about scholarships offered to prospective educators. “We need to work with UVI to beef up teachers’ training,” she said.
Although the discussion regularly returned to poor communication, both groups agreed that the welfare of students was top priority.
Among the issues addressed were safety in schools, HIV/AIDS awareness classes, school culture, activities and clubs, the physical condition of school buildings and grounds, early childhood and special education, “rite-of-passage” seminars about sex and other milestones, and emergency plans for natural and man-made disasters.
In closing, Chairwoman Winona Hendricks noted, “it is [the BOE’s] responsibility for making sure that some of our thoughts about students and education are presented.” Amid laughter, Hendricks affirmed that she and Terry are friends, despite the obvious tensions. Afterwards, members from both groups shook hands and continued an informal discussion of topics addressed during the meeting.
