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Enid Capron Primary School Celebrates Reading Month 2022 

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#TurksandCaicos, March 11, 2022 – The Enid Capron Primary School celebrated its annual Reading Month this February under the theme: “Read Something New in 2022”.   Our activities included: An Opening Ceremony, Word of the Week Competition, Teacher and Student Swap Reading Time, a Storytelling Competition, Kindergarten Pyjama Day and Speech Competition. Head of the Reading Committee, Ms. Nelene Swan, stated in her remarks: “February was a month filled with a number of exciting Reading initiatives to encourage our students to read more. It gave them the opportunity to see how reading can enhance their vocabulary and also take them anywhere in the world through pictures and stories. Overall, it was a great experience for the students and built a greater partnership with the Teachers and Parents.”   Prizes included cash, story books and school supplies. 

 

Enid Capron Primary School- Reading Month 2022  

Speech Competition 

The Annual Speech Competition was a highlight of the Reading Month celebrations. For this competition, E.C.P.S. students from Grades 4 to 6 were asked to write a 500-word essay then read it to a panel of judges and an audience on the topic: “Exploring Our Learning Options: The Hybrid Approach” 

 

“EXPLORING OUR LEARNING OPTIONS: THE HYBRID APPROACH” 

Calvin Sejour- E.C.P.S. Speech Competition 2022: 1st Place Winner

Good morning. I am Calvin Sejour and this Tuesday morning; I will speak to you about the hybrid approach to learning. The hybrid approach comes along with the rise of education technology; schools have adopted teaching methods that diverge from the typical classroom environment. Distance learning is being used on a worldwide scale, and many educational institutions are starting to implement hybrid learning models. 

However, hybrid learning is more than just tossing half of your syllabus into a virtual classroom. Instead, it is a comprehensive approach to combining the best parts of face-to-face and online learning to create the ideal learning experience. Hybrid learning is an educational model where some students attend class in person, while others join the class virtually from home. Educators teach remote and in-person students at the same time using tools like video conferencing hardware and software.  

Both face-to-face and online learning have their benefits and weaknesses. The goal of hybrid learning is to combine the two formats to create a singular learning experience without any weak spots. Many schools transition to hybrid learning for flexibility: a flexible learning schedule, flexibility in teaching modes, flexibility in how students engage with their learning materials, and flexibility in collaboration and communication between peers and their instructor. For students who aren’t able to attend classes in person, the hybrid learning environment allows them to learn remotely from home. 

How do some teachers feel about hybrid learning? 

Most teachers saw it as the worst of all options, and hated it almost instantly. Nearly two years into the pandemic, hybrid classes have been largely locked back into the pandemic toolbox and most schools are open for full-time in-person classes. But a quieter war over hybrid teaching is still underway. 

Hybrid courses are a specific mode of learning that may not suit every student. Some students procrastinate more than others; some are satisfied with barely passing a course. If you are this type of person, you may find that a hybrid course is much more time consuming and difficult for you.  

Thank you. 

 

“EXPLORING OUR LEARNING OPTIONS: THE HYBRID APPROACH” 

Hello. My name is Ava Welch, a fifth-grade student at the Enid Capron Primary School. 

Ava Welsh- E.C.P.S Speech Competition 2022: 2nd Place Winner

Hybrid learning is an       educational approach to learning in which students appear at school, which is face-to- face learning and engages in classes online. In using my class for an example, we are split into two groups. The first group has two days, and the second group has three days. This changes every two weeks. This allows for the students to go to all classes, for example Music class which is every other week. 

Websites state that hybrid learning describes an educational model in which students spend at least half of their time learning online and the rest of their time learning in physical classrooms. In my words I would just say Hybrid learning is something that happened when covid 19 started, half of a class went to school, and the other half stayed at home online.                 

I do not think hybrid learning is the best approach because you have some children who may have trouble navigating the online process. There are also children who are unsupervised because their parents must work, so the kids sometimes play games and do not pay attention in class. The teachers have two days a week with 1 set of students and then 3 days with the other set of students face to face. To keep the kids on the same level the teacher may have to repeat his/her lessons over again leaving less time for the whole class to learn new things.  

It is my opinion that some students take advantage of online classes. One reason is because they can turn off their microphones and cameras and do whatever they desire, for example, on the days when we were fully online, some of my classmates use to lay on their comfortable beds while everyone else would sit on their wooden chairs.  

People can also take advantage of face-to-face education, because they can just chat with friends and not pay any attention in class and those kids who do that will get left behind in class or work.  As for me, whether online, face to face or hybrid learning, I make sure to pay attention. 

Hybrid learning is something that I would recommend when covid-19 numbers are high. Overall, I do not recommend hybrid learning because I believe it is hard for students and teachers alike. ‘ 

Do any of you know Samajeo Williams? Well, if not, he is the Director of the National Public Health Labotory in the Turks and Caicos Islands and also, he is my amazing dad! Right now, Covid-19 numbers are low so I would not recommend hybrid learning. Face to face learning is always the best way for kids to learn.  

Thank you. 

 

“EXPLORING OUR LEARNING OPTIONS: THE HYBRID APPROACH” 

A pleasant Tuesday morning to you all. My name is Deliesha Toussaint. Today, I will be talking about the Hybrid Approach and other approaches to learning. I will also share with you the one that is my favourite. 

Deliesha Toussaint- E.C.P.S. Speech Competition 2022: 3rd Place Winner

What is the Hybrid approach? It is a combination of two different methodologies or systems that has the aim to create a new and better model to learning.

However, hybrid learning is more than just tossing half of your syllabus into a virtual classroom. Instead, it is a comprehensive approach to combining the best parts of face-to-face and online learning to create the ideal learning experience In some cases, hybrid classes include learning elements, like online exercises and pre-recorded video instruction, to support face-to-face classroom sessions. When planned well, hybrid courses combine the best aspects of in-person and online learning while making education more attainable for many students. 

Face-to-face learning can be good especially since wifi at our homes can be slow. When the Wi-Fi is slow, the teacher thinks I am playing games but I am not. However, when we are at school for face-to-face learning we play around.    

I prefer online learning. One reason I like virtual learning is that there is no fighting.  

\Also, with online learning, we can sleep and the teacher will never know! 

On the other hand, learning online can be very distracting. Some of us come to learn but some come to play. We do not study; we do not do our class assignments either. 

 Students at my school say that they like virtual school because: 

  1. there is no fighting
  2. they get away with doing things without the teacher finding out about it
  3. they get more time to eat

 I want my school to remain doing face-to-face learning even though I support the hybrid approach. 

I thank you. 

 

Photo Captions: 

Header: Winning Class of the Storytelling Competition: Grade 2Fulford

1st insert: Speech Competition Finalists

 

 

 

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Education

SCU AND TCICC STRENGTHEN HOSPITALITY IN THE CARIBBEAN  ~Using industry knowledge to train and develop ~ 

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The Sandals Corporate University (SCU) continues to strengthen its reach and impact in the Caribbean and, in doing so, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC). This twoyear agreement will assist the TCICC in strengthening its Hospitality and Tourism programme to build local capacity and develop leadership in the industry from within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The MoU signing is the second of its kind for the SCU in the region, following a recent agreement with the UWI Global Campus. Held at the Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, the ceremony was attended by the Premier of Turks and Caicos, the Hon. Charles Washington Misick, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming and Disaster Management, the Hon. Josephine Connolly, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, President/CEO of TCICC, Dr. Candice Williams along with other dignitaries and leaders from both SCU and TCICC.

In his keynote address, Honourable Misick articulated the vision behind the partnership between the two entities. “The partnership between Sandals Corporate University and the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College was conceived with the vision of strengthening the local workforce. In under four months, we’ve made remarkable progress. By elevating educational standards and creating job opportunities, we’re not just enhancing the Human Development Index (HDI) for the Turks and Caicos; we’re building a more efficient economy.

“As we embark on this partnership with Sandals Corporate University, we recognise its transformative potential for our students and our country. Through collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise, we will enhance the quality of education and training and create pathways for our students to excel in their careers and become leaders in the industry,” noted Dr. Candice Williams.

In his remarks, Mr. Stewart affirmed the significant role of Sandals Corporate University (SCU) in the region, encouraging team members to embrace it as a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement. He also commended the partnership with SCU and TCICC, noting “SCU’s commitment to providing internships annually is just a fraction of the exciting opportunities available through this collaboration.”

Honourable Taylor praised the partnership, adding that it represents “a visionary initiative aimed at harnessing our collective strengths to bolster a sector that is vital to our economy. As we formalise this agreement today, we are planting seeds for a future that holds unparalleled opportunities for our students, educators, and the hospitality industry at large.”

The SCU will also work with the TCICC to identify subject matter experts from Sandals and Beaches Resorts who will be willing to give guest lectures, provide input into the curriculum being developed for the TCICC’s Hospitality and Tourism Management programmes and provide opportunities to promote enrolment of Sandals and Beaches team members in relevant programmes offered at the TCICC.

Additionally, the SCU will endeavour to facilitate the placement of up to 100 interns from TCICC within Sandals and Beaches Resorts per year for work experience and a formal Internship programme for students at various levels. Lastly, the SCU will, where possible, provide the opportunity for TCICC students’ international certifications through their partnerships with accrediting bodies in all aspects of hospitality management and technical related areas

 

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Caribbean News

OVER 120 TRAINED TEACHERS GRADUATE FROM SAM SHARPE COLLEGE

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MONTEGO BAY, May 2 (JIS):

More than 120 newly trained teachers, specialising in subject areas such as English and Mathematics at the primary and secondary levels, are set to enter the education system in September.

The recent graduates of the Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College in Montego Bay were presented with Bachelors of Education (B.Ed), associate and advanced degrees for successfully completing their programmes of study, during a valedictory ceremony on April 25 at Calvary Baptist Church in St. James.

The 2024 graduating class included 46 students who specialised in primary education, 17 who completed their four-year course of study in early-childhood education, nine in special education, and nine in school counselling.

At the secondary level, three teachers specialised in biology and mathematics, six in English Language and Literature and three in modern languages.

There were 16 graduates with advanced degrees in primary education, 11 in early childhood and three with associate degrees in collaboration with the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.

President of the Jamaica Methodist District, Bishop Christine Gooden-Benguche, who delivered the keynote address, charged the graduating class, as they enter the school system, to “see each day as an opportunity to live life with quality while igniting minds”.

She urged them to learn from their successes and failures, see possibilities through new engagements and innovations, and to build healthy partnerships and relationships.

“Keep your minds stimulated with new thinking and seek divine guidance,” she added.

Principal of Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College, Ricardo Bennett, said that the institution continues to grow, innovate and redefine itself as a multifaceted and multidimensional learning environment under a new strategic plan spanning 2023-2028, entitled ‘From Decisions to Action’.

Over 120 Trained Teachers Graduate…2

The plan, he noted, is supported by six pillars of development – agile positioning and partnership, curriculum and instruction, total quality management, institutional capacity, operational efficiency, and entrepreneurship and research and innovation.

The teachers’ college is also exploring international partnerships to offer master’s and doctoral programmes.

Valedictorians for the Class of 2024 are Chantalle Smith and Debbie-Ann Allen-Christie, who are graduates in primary and early-childhood education, respectively.

 

CONTACT: SHARON EARLE

JIS REGIONAL OFFICE

MONTEGO BAY

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture signs sport declarations at General Assembly American Sports Council – CADE 2024

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Press Release 

Washington, USA, April 26, 2024 – Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture, signs CADE declarations at the General Assembly American Sports Council, CADE 2024 held in Washington DC, USA.

 

The Sport meetings commenced on Thursday, 25th April and continued through Friday, 26th April, 2024. There were three meetings held during the two days: A bi-lateral meeting hosted by the USA for English Speaking Caribbean countries; CONCECADE (Meeting for Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean); and CADE (meeting with South America, Central America, and the Caribbean and North America).

 

Accompanying the Minister were the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Mr. Amin McCartney, and the Director/CEO of the TCI Sports Commission, Mr. Jarrett Forbes. Sport leaders from thirty (30) plus countries from across South America, Central America, North America, and the Caribbean were present.

Amongst the topics discussed were: a report from the recently hosted Pan-American and Parapan-American Games in Santiago Chile 2023 and its legacies; Jamaica’s approach to developing mass participation through its Sport for All programmes; USA Commission for Athlete Representation; Inclusion in sports through strengthening para and special Olympic programmes; the commitment and social benefits of physical activity in schools; Structure and application of the Paralympic sport system in Columbia; and anti-doping in sports.

After the General Assembly, common positions for the future of sports in the Americas were taken with a final declaration and bilateral agreements of the CADE Assembly 2024.

Comment from the Minister of Education Youth Sports Culture and Library Services

 

“It was a pleasure to attend the General Assembly of the American Sports Council – CADE 2024 for the first time as the Minister of Sports for the TCI. It provided a greater insight into the roles and responsibilities of each entity and the kind of support we can garner whether financially, technically, or in the area of training. The CONCECADE bi-lateral meeting with Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean provided an opportunity for Caribbean Member countries to voice their concerns in relation to legacy matters including the dissemination of minutes and other content in English. This year yielded the largest number of Caribbean Ministers in attendance for the English-speaking countries, providing an opportunity to share best practices and collaborate with their counterparts.”

 

CADE Declarations signed by the Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture include:

 

First: Sports is something very special – it brings people together from every corner of the world, from every possible background. Each person, from every age, should have the opportunity to participate in the sports they enjoy. It is essential that all of us throughout the Americas reiterate our longstanding commitment to the development and implementation of sports policies for every segment of society, without any discrimination of any kind. It is essential to recognize that sports also have a critical role to play in addressing many of our social issues, including gender equality and inclusion, health promotion, education, and livelihood.

 

Second: Paralympians are amazing athletes and an inspiration to everyone who gets the chance to see what they can do. It is essential for every country to ensure that Paralympic athletes have robust opportunities to train, compete, and celebrate their amazing and vital contribution to sports.

 

Third: The Americas is proud of the success of the 2023 Pan American Games hosted by the Government of Chile and organized in cooperation with Pan Am Sports and the Chilean National Olympic Committee. We offer our deepest congratulations to all athletes who competed, their coaches and families, and to all those in Chile who worked so hard to ensure the success of the Games.

 

Fourth: The success of sports in the Americas has many elements, but first among them is the commitment to excellence of our athletes. The dedication, discipline, and spirit of everyone who seeks to be the best in their fields is an inspiration to us all, especially our children, who need role models and heroes to look to as they pursue their dreams.

 

Fifth: The Members of CADE commit to strengthening CADE as an organization with the vision of it building on the strong foundation that already exists, to becoming an even more robust hemispheric multilateral organization specializing in Sports.

 

Sixth: All CADE member countries are signatories to the UNESCO convention and we reiterate the importance of the convention as a government multilateral institution with critical anti-doping responsibilities and an obligation to work collaboratively with all sports and anti-doping stakeholders.

 

Seventh: Anti-Doping is a critical responsibility for every country. In this regard, it is vital that public authorities, whether through their Sports Ministry or otherwise, ensure that sufficient funding is available to national anti-doping organizations so that they are able to effectively implement their important obligations to ensure fair competition. It is the responsibility of the government to support the institutions our athletes are part of, to ensure the integrity of sports. The CADE general assembly very much appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from the WADA President for the first time.

 

Eight: The Olympic Movement plays a very critical role in the World of Sports. They are a vital stakeholder year-round, not just when it’s time for the Summer and Winter Olympics to develop Sports. They are part of the Sports ecosystem, which includes sports ministries, the International Olympic Committee, Pan Am Sports, the National Olympic Committee, Sports Federations National Anti-Doping Organizations, and a wide array of support and sponsors. It is critical that these vital relationships among all stakeholders remain strong. We thank the International Olympic Committee for their participation in this year’s CADE Sports Summit and invite them to participate again next year.

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