PRESS RELEASE

THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH AND SPORTS

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands: As we wrap up the vibrant celebrations of Education Week 2025, we invite you to join us on an inspiring journey! Get ready to explore the groundbreaking S.P.I.R.E. (Specialised Programme Individualising Reading Excellence) Reading Intervention Programme, an innovative initiative that has already made a significant impact in seven public schools since its rollout in August 2023 and 2024. Now in its fourth edition, (EPS Learning Publishing) the programme introduces Sounds Sensible, a powerful foundational component designed to enhance literacy through research-backed strategies. Partner with us as we unlock the door to literacy together and create new opportunities for our students and teachers!

S.P.I.R.E. is an evidence-based reading intervention program rooted in the Science of Reading and Orton-Gillingham practices. It offers a 10-step, 45-minute teacher-led lesson structure that systematically covers phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, oral and listening skills, decoding, vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency, reinforcing all stages of reading development.                                                                                                                                    The programme offers thorough assessments for concept mastery. Students are individually assessed using the S.P.I.R.E. Placement Assessment to determine their appropriate instructional level, along with Pre- and Post-Level Tests to measure mastery of all level concepts. Additional assessments include Mid-Level Tests, Concept Assessments, and Concept Mastery Fluency evaluations.

In June and August 2023, Grades 1 to 3 teachers participated in virtual and in-person training on S.P.I.R.E., facilitated by EPS Learning trainers and led by Dr. Keran Williams, whose expertise is invaluable as we work together to support our students’ reading development. This collaborative training effort aims to ensure that our teachers are fully prepared to deliver the program with confidence and effectiveness.

Teachers addressed parental concerns by highlighting the difference between simply calling words and truly comprehending texts. They explained that SPIRE not only boosts basic reading skills but also enhances critical thinking.

A key strategy involved implementing a structured scheduling system that grouped students by reading levels. Each morning, students spent at least an hour with a trained SPIRE teacher. Comprehensive assessments at the beginning of the year and periodically thereafter helped identify reading levels. Using SPIRE resources, teachers provided differentiated instruction based on students’ strengths and weaknesses. This approach improved reading outcomes and fostered a strong sense of community within the schools.

We are thrilled to highlight the dedication of our teachers who embraced the recent programme aimed at building a collaborative network. They took the initiative to connect with one another, enhancing support for their students, parents, and fellow colleagues. Together, we are strengthening our educational community and paving the way for greater student success. Thank you for your hard work, and special thanks to our principals, vice principals, and parents for your unwavering commitment!

We would like to highlight the outstanding performance of Daniela Carroll from Ianthe Pratt Primary School. Under the guidance of Education Officers – Dr. Keran Williams, Sarah Kennedy and Heidy Williams – Daniela took on the challenge of leading this initiative with enthusiasm. Her passion for education and determination to make a difference were crucial as she facilitated three invaluable refresher workshops across Providenciales, Grand Turk, and North Caicos.

In conclusion, SPIRE’s transformative journey has been remarkable. Through strategic scheduling and targeted instruction, we’ve improved literacy education and fostered an inclusive environment for all students. Our timely support has led to significant gains in reading skills, boosting confidence and enthusiasm. Together, we’re building a brighter future for every child to reach their potential and embrace literacy. Let’s keep the momentum, celebrate our successes, and continue fostering a love for reading in every student!

Turks and Caicos, March 16, 2025 – The 13th annual FortisTCI National Science and Technology Fair held on March 5 and 6, 2025, brought together more than 100 student participants for two days of scientific exploration and competition under the theme: “From Ideas to Invention: Redefining What’s Possible.”

The Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex was transformed into a hub of discovery during Education Week, as scores of students, educators, stakeholders, and general attendees buzzed with excitement during for the national science quiz, debate, poster, and project competitions.

The 5th annual National High School Science Debate recorded a fierce showdown, with Maranatha Academy claiming victory after placing second last year. The debate team amassed 142 points to Clement Howell High School’s 129.5 points in the grand finale. Students argued whether it is possible to meet rising energy demand without relying on fossil fuels. Holy Family Academy secured third place.

Holy Family Academy won first place in the National Science Project Competition high school category with a creative approach to tackling the ongoing sargassum issue by creating sustainable eco-bricks. Raymond Gardiner High School secured second place for its North Caicos Beach Bricks project, which focused on enhancing the product’s strength and durability. H.J. Robinson High School secured third place with a project on the manufacturing of insect repellent.

The A. Louise Garland Thomas High School received this year’s President’s Award for its project on integrating mimetic photosynthesis in solar cell technology. FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes presents this special annual award to projects demonstrating outstanding creativity, innovative thinking, and skillful execution in scientific pursuits.

Enid Capron Primary School secured first place in the primary school category for their science project investigating the effect of compost on plant growth. Holy Family Academy secured second place with their experiment on hydroponics versus traditional farming. Ianthe Pratt Primary School secured third place with a project examining how different materials affect composting speed.

Eliza Simons Primary School rose to the top after placing second last year in the National Primary School Science Quiz. Charles Hubert James Primary School won second place, and Holy Family Academy rounded out the top three.

The National Science Poster Competition challenged students to translate the fair’s theme into a visually compelling masterpiece through creative art and graphic art. The top-performing schools across both categories were Clement Howell High School, H.J. Robinson High School, Maranatha Academy, Providenciales Middle School, Holy Family Academy and Majorie Basden High School.

Beyond the competitions, the event featured dynamic stakeholder booths including electric vehicles and cutting-edge technology such as drone showcases, virtual reality simulations, and Chroma keying technology for weather broadcasts.

During her remarks at the closing awards ceremony, FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes stressed that the science fair is all about opportunity and endless possibilities. She shared an inspirational story of an eighteen-year-old California student and former science fair project winner, Vasya Tremsin, who invented a solar-powered device to detect outdoor fires, now called Torch Early Detection Fire Sensors. These sensors are helping firefighters, and first responders combat wildfires in California. She illustrated how science fair projects can morph into successful products, encouraging students to continue their scientific exploration, as their efforts and inventions can one day help create a better world for all.

Photo Captions: 

1st insert: Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, presents award and prizes to Enid Capron Primary School for winning the 2025 National Science Project Competition Primary School segment with their project on “What Effect does compost have on plant growth?”

2nd insert: Hon. Erwin Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Information, presents award and prizes to Maranatha Academy, for winning the 2025 National High School Science Debate, after placing second last year.

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands; Tuesday, 11th March, 2025: Success in modelling extends far beyond beauty and confidence—it demands discipline, resilience, and a commitment to overall well-being. This past weekend, TCI Top Model contestants and models took part in an interactive fitness and nutrition workshop led by Alyx Williams, a professional rugby player, entrepreneur, fitness coach, model and owner of Flyx. The session, focused on ‘optimal fitness and healthy lifestyle choices,’ reinforced the importance of discipline in both physical training and daily life.

The dynamic and high-energy workshop covered essential topics, including proper nutrition, diet practices, effective exercise routines, and the benefits of eliminating alcohol and carbonated beverages from one’s lifestyle and drinking water to stay hydrated. The fitness trainer emphasised that achieving peak physical condition requires a combination of mental focus, proper fuel, consistent effort, and the healthy habits you develop over time.

“Your body is your vehicle—what you put in determines how far you can go,” Williams stated. “Every choice you make, from nutrition to movement to mindset, shapes the person you become. The goal isn’t just to look good; it’s to feel powerful, energised, and ready for anything. The best version of yourself starts with the discipline to show up and do the work.”

The participants took part in engaging discussions, exploring how nutrition fuels performance, how consistency leads to transformation, and how mental focus impacts physical results. The Flyx owner shared personal experiences from his rugby career and personal coaching, illustrating how preparation, perseverance, and smart lifestyle choices lead to peak performance. For modelling, he noted that every element of self comes together, bringing forth a great model. He encouraged them to push their limits, adopt a mindset of consistency and resilience, and believe that their dreams will pay off.

“Fitness is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling strong, staying disciplined, and being the best version of yourself. Success in any field—whether in sports, modelling, or business—comes from dedication, hard work, and the right mindset. If you take on the training, stay focused, and commit to doing the work, you will see results.” Williams added.

The importance of these lessons was underscored by Courtney Robinson, Executive Producer of the TCI Top Model Contest, who expressed gratitude for Williams’ insights. “Health and wellness play a crucial role in modelling. It’s not just about physical appearance but also about stamina, confidence, and overall well-being. Alyx brought an incredible depth of knowledge, motivation, and energy to this session, reminding our participants that success begins with self-care.  We are immensely grateful for his time, expertise, inspiration, and commitment – to helping this year’s intake grow into their best selves.”

The 2025 TCI Top Model Contest—En Vogue is set to take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Brayton Hall in Providenciales. As participants prepare for the big stage, the knowledge and skills gained from this fitness and wellness session will be key to their journey.