News

Continued investment in technology to enhance teaching and learning in Cayman Islands Government (CIG) Schools was one of the plans outlined by the Minister for Education, The Hon. Juliana O'Connor-Connolly last Friday (19 August) at the Annual Education Professionals' Welcome Back Event at the John Gray High School Gymnasium.

As part of its efforts to enhance the use of technology in public schools, the MoE has purchased 142 Promethean display panels for CIG schools. The new boards will be installed throughout the next few months to replace the existing projectors & interactive whiteboards.

Three of the Promethean display panels were strategically placed throughout the gymnasium, allowing educators to familiarise themselves with the new teaching resource.

Florida-based Education Consultant and Promethean representative, Ms. Amanda Carlson, also presented to the audience via ZOOM about the benefits of using the Promethean display panels.

Acknowledging that the resources needed to adequately provide for students’ educational needs would require significant funding, the Education Minister commented, "I am grateful for the support of my Cabinet colleagues in my efforts to spend and invest in the education of our children. Any investment in education is truly worthwhile. No stock market in the world can produce the dividends that proper investment in education will give you."

Minister O'Connor-Connolly further highlighted the upgrade of wireless networks in CIG schools to facilitate the increased use of technology.

In his remarks, Department of Education Services (DES) Director Mr. Mark Ray reflected on the Department's many successes in the previous academic year, thanked educators for facilitating those achievements and outlined the Department's focus for the year ahead. He added, “Everything you do in the classroom impacts learning. We want to focus on the things that have the largest possible impact and do them well. You each bring unique experiences. You each bring a set of competencies, knowledge and qualifications that you will apply to situations you face daily. I am confident that you will do so extremely well and competently."

Mr. Ray also used the opportunity to introduce another technological tool: BecomingX Education, generously donated by KPMG. This will assist educators as they seek to inspire students and facilitate their personal development.

BecomingX Co-founder/ CEO Mr. Paul Gurney later delivered a comprehensive presentation about the new educational platform.

Acting Chief Officer in the Ministry of Education, Ms. Lyneth Monteith, welcomed the approximately 800 educators back to school. Her welcome incorporated words of appreciation from past Clifton Hunter High School graduate Aryana Grant, John Gray High School student Jacob Kelly – Johnson and a video presentation from Avery Randall and Matteo Malcolm, who enter reception this academic year.

His Excellency, Governor Martyn Roper, also paid homage to the educators, adding, "As you return to the classroom, I hope you will remain unwavering in your efforts to educate, inspire and nurture your pupils."

The morning's agenda also included a Wellness Presentation from The Counselling Centre's Mr. Jason Dunkley, Remarks from Education Council Chairman Mr. Shomari Scott and Prayer from Pastor Christopher Murray.

George Town Primary School Principal, Ms. Sharon Campbell-Danvers, was tasked with introducing the Education Minister, Acting MoE Deputy Chief Officer Mr. Adrian Jones gave closing remarks, and newly appointed DES Deputy Director Mr. Elroy Bryan chaired the event.

Dr. Kassandra Salazar and Dequann Smith led the singing of the National Anthem and National Song, respectively.

Representatives from the Health Services Authority, Portfolio of the Civil Service, Cayman National Cultural Foundation and National Gallery were available to provide educators with various services, including health checks and ID photos.

Others in attendance at the Welcome Event included The Premier, Hon. Wayne Panton, Deputy Governor, Hon. Franz Manderson, and Minister for Health & Wellness Hon. Sabrina Turner.

Minister for Tourism & Transport Hon. Kenneth Bryan, Attorney General Hon. Samuel Bulgin, Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Dwayne Seymour, and MOE & DES representatives were also present.

The annual Education Professionals' event welcomes all new and returning Cayman Islands Government school educators and outlines some of the Ministry of Education's plans for the upcoming school year.

To view the Annual Education Professionals' Welcome Back Event, visit the Cayman Islands Government YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/abDdwclIAPM.

To learn more about the latest education initiatives and for information about school reopening, visit www.gov.ky/education.