Classes haven’t yet resumed after the summer holiday, but public school teachers are already back at work.
During a week-long “summer institute” this week, they are taking part in educational sessions with a focus on the laws governing education, the “changing climate of education,” and establishing strategic plans, according to government.
The activities kicked off Monday with a professional development day at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.
During the session, Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sharie de Castro told teachers about her hopes to continue developing students’ skills in critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration and innovation.
“We are developing a reimagined curriculum where students are not just users of technology, but are equipped with the skills to become creators of industries,” she said.
‘S.T.E.A.M.’
To that end, she explained, the ministry will continue to focus on the so-called “S.T.E.A.M.” fields of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
This approach, she said, will bring various innovations to the lower secondary level and the expansion of robotics and coding to the upper secondary level.
“We have answered the call of our students to continue to nurture their curiosity and ingenuity through a focus on digital literacy and innovation,” Ms. de Castro added.
Acting Chief Education Officer Orlandette Crabbe also spoke at the event.
“We can already see S.T.E.A.M. education changing our students by affording them the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world, preparing them not just for jobs that exist today but for the opportunities of the future that you nor I have yet to envision,” she said.
Teacher training
Premier Dr. Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley also addressed the teachers, encouraging them to make the most of their week of training.
“As we are preparing our students for an ever-evolving world and a new landscape, so too we must acknowledge that there is a need for educators to be on a path of constant development — constantly updating your knowledge, reviewing and revising your methods, and pivoting as necessary,” he said. “And this is where I believe professional day and summer institute makes its greatest impact.”