New school year set to begin October 5 says Minister of Education

Monday, October 5, 2020 is the targeted date for the opening of public and private schools throughout the archipelago. The Hon. Jeffrey Lloyd, Minister of Education (MOE) in a report to the nation, announced that a substantial increase in the infection rate of the novel coronavirus in New Providence and other Family Islands, has forced the Department of Education to engage in more urgent planning and considerations. Schools were previously scheduled to open on September 21, 2020.

The comprehensive Back-to-School address presented at the Office of the Prime Minister highlighted measures the MOE has taken to enhance education in The Bahamas, and the Ministry’s instructional delivery plans for the 2020 -2021 academic year. MOE executives participating included Lorraine Armbrister, Permanent Secretary; Marcellus Taylor, Director; Serethea Clarke, Deputy Director; Sharon Poitier, Deputy Director and Sharmaine Sinclair, Assistant Director.

Among the initiatives: the digitization of the education system, universal pre-primary education, professional development for educators, increased tertiary level education, curriculum reform and children with special needs having the opportunity to receive appropriate instructions.

Moreover, Minister Lloyd emphasized that in New Providence, Abaco and Eleuthera, schools will have a virtual format while schools in Grand Bahama and other Family Islands will offer face-to-face classes.

The delay, said Minister Lloyd, allows the Ministry and parents/care-givers the opportunity to secure the needed devices for the full participation of all involved in the teaching and learning process.

Related Article:

• New term delayed 'til Oct 5 - and then only virtual classes (The Tribune)