Recent weather damage to V.I. schools caused by tropical rains and Hurricane Earl has inspired a Territorial Day of Community Service. This first-time event, set for Saturday Oct. 16 from 9 a.m. to noon, hopes to enlist community members to help fix damaged schools for the improved safety of students and teachers.
The day of service will take place at all participating public and private schools on all three islands, along with the University of the Virgin Islands.
The USVI Parent-Teacher Student Association is calling for parents, especially fathers, to volunteer for the cleanup effort.
“We are encouraging all fathers to come out in large numbers armed with tools toward completion of a much-needed cleanup campaign,” said PTSA President Alvin Bedneau.
Aside from some chronic problems caused by neglect, the main damage has been caused by rain and wind resulting from the recent tropical waves. Critical problems include blown-down fences or fences overgrown with vines, water damage and standing water in front of school entrances, classrooms in need of new paint, damaged drains and school signs that need to be erected.
“It is urgent for the safety of the children and teachers that these things be fixed. These are simple tasks that can be completed in a few hours,” said Bedneau.
The association is most in need of tools and equipment. The main things volunteers can bring to help is weed whackers, shovels, brooms, power washers, paint supplies and other basic tools. All schools are encouraged to participate in the event.
Officials hope the project can become a regular event that continually improves the state of V.I. schools.
