TCI Ministry of Education delays phase 4 school opening; Grade 5 & 6 only on four islands

#TurksandCaicosIslands – October 30, 2020 – Following the successful implementation of Phases 1-3 of the Roadmap for the Reopening of TCI Schools, the Ministry of Education is currently embarking on Phase 4 activation.

Based on our roadmap, we would have seen the return of students to full face to face classes in Salt Cay, Grand Turk, South Caicos and North Caicos on November 3rd.  However, acting on the advice of health officials and key stakeholders, particularly school administrators, the Ministry has reviewed the Phase 4 model and decided to modify the return of students.

Additionally, community testing for Covid-19 has commenced, Health officials have advised that this would give a better indication of the level of containment in our communities. One initiative involves testing teachers before the activation of Phases 4 and 5. 

As part of the Phase 4 modification, on Monday, November 9th, students of Grades 5 & 6 will be allowed to return to school for face to face instruction. This modification will better prepare our 5th and 6th Graders for transitioning to high school. Currently, Forms 4 and 5 students are allowed face to face instruction, so the return of Grades 5 & 6 will provide a more balanced approach.  The remaining students in public and private schools will continue with remote learning. 

The Ministry is committed, as indicated in the Roadmap document, to have all students return to face to face instruction in January 2021.  

May God Bless these Beautiful by Nature Turks and Caicos Islands as we continue to play our part in keeping each other safe.

Ministry of Education Press Release