PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, YOUTH,
CULTURE, AND LIBRARY SERVICES
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Monday, 24th March 2025: On 11 – 15 March 2025, a team of Special Education professionals from the Turks and Caicos Islands participated in the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Convention & Expo 2025, held at the Baltimore Convention Centre in Baltimore, Maryland. This annual event is a key platform for advancing best practices, policies, and innovations in the field of special education, bringing together educators, researchers, and advocates dedicated to supporting individuals with diverse learning needs.
Representing the TCI at the convention were Ms. Tevynn Lewis, Ms. Denecia Harris, Ms. Makiliah Forde, and Ms. Faaida James, Education Officer for Special Education. Over the course of the event, the team engaged in specialized training sessions, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, focusing on areas such as individualized education plans (IEPs), behavioral management strategies, inclusive classroom practices, and assistive technology.
A major highlight of the convention was a keynote presentation by Dr. Temple Grandin, a leading voice in autism awareness, who provided valuable perspectives on understanding and supporting neurodiverse students. Additionally, sessions led by Dr. Mary Brownell underscored the significance of collaborative teaching models and the implementation of research-based interventions to improve student outcomes.
Attending the CEC Convention provided the TCI delegation with new strategies, resources, and professional connections that will contribute to the ongoing development of Special Education services in the islands. The insights gained will be instrumental in enhancing classroom instruction, strengthening student support systems, and promoting inclusive education across schools.
The Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor commented, “Our participation in the CEC Convention & Expo 2025 reaffirms the Government’s commitment to providing quality education for all students, particularly those with exceptionalities. The insights and strategies gained from this global forum will further strengthen our efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment across our schools. I commend our Special Education professionals for their dedication to continuous learning and their unwavering commitment to the success of every child,”
The Ministry of Education remains committed to professional growth and capacity-building initiatives that empower educators to meet the diverse needs of students. The participation of the Special Education team in this global event marks another step toward ensuring that all children in the Turks and Caicos Islands receive the support they need to succeed academically and socially.
