Dear Source:
During the recent focus on public education, it became very obvious that many persons in the community are not aware of the transformation that is taking place in our public schools. The buildings are better than they have ever been, and are more welcoming. Children are doing better at math, reading, science, social studies and critical thinking. At some of these schools, we are also teaching students language and cultural versatility. Our public schools are not what some persons are picturing from twenty, or even ten years ago. Unfortunately, in many cases the missing ingredient is parental participation and support.
I am throwing the doors of Gladys A. Abraham Elementary School open to the Virgin Islands community. Anyone can come by. The Assistant Principal and myself, will be pleased to give tours of the school at work. The Gladys A. Abraham School family is proud of what it is doing to help students learn and grow. Our motto is: "Simply the Best," and we take that challenge seriously.
While the community can come in any time, we will be particularly delighted to welcome you during American Education Week, November 11 – 17. Those who choose to visit on November 16, at 1: 00 pm., will also experience one of our special assemblies. Our choir and band will perform, and two public school teachers, among the best voices in public education, will also be singing The Prayer, as a duet.
A very special invitation is extended to: Carol Lotz-Felix, Dr. R. L. Bucher, William Newbold, Carol Berry, Herb Schoenbohm, Dena Langdon, Krim Ballentine, Elena Shaubah, Paul Devine, Arnold Golden, David Cover, Stephanie Scott-Williams, Belinda Jackson, and of course my friend from Montserrat, Wingrove Fenton. Certainly, my friends at the Source are invited to come see what we are doing, too.
I am very aware that some of the names here and I have had tit-tats in the media. However, that was then, this is now. We are a very welcoming school and you all are invited to come and look us over. We will be delighted to have you visit us. I promise you a new perspective on public education in the Virgin Islands.
Whitman T. Browne
St. Thomas
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