The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) extends its heartfelt appreciation to Rashidi Clenance, the Tim Duncan Foundation, and ViVid Streaming for their recent donations of water cooler dispensers, 5-gallon water jugs, and industrial copiers to all public schools on St. Croix.

The generous donation and distribution of these essential items began last week through a coordinated effort spearheaded by Mr. Clenance. Public schools across the St. Croix District, including PreK-6, PreK-8, Junior High, High Schools, Career Tech, and Adult Education, graciously received these much-needed supplies.

On behalf of the Tim Duncan Foundation and ViVid Streaming, Mr. Clenance ensured the facilitation of these donations through collaboration between the public and private sectors. The VIDE wishes to express sincere gratitude to all those involved in making the distribution a success, from loading trucks to making deliveries. Special acknowledgment goes to St. Croix Business Machines and Copy Center, as well as the Virgin Islands National Guard, for their contribution of recycled 5-gallon water jugs.

Recognized for his ongoing philanthropic endeavors, Mr. Clenance highlighted that the recent donation to the schools marks the beginning of a series of events and promotions by his online radio station, ViVid Streaming. The generosity of the Tim Duncan Foundation and ViVid Streaming will continue with exciting activities planned for March.

The two entities will sponsor 500 students from both districts to attend the Bob Marley biopic as part of a student-focused initiative coinciding with the relaunch of the Higher-Level High School radio program. This student-driven radio program is hosted at the ViVid Streaming studios on St. Thomas and St. Croix, with auditions scheduled for March.

Teachers and students can also anticipate an opportunity to win a trip to Disney World/Universal Studios at the end of the school year. Through ViVid Streaming's annual giveback raffle during The Good Mahnin Show call-in segment, known as SWAGG CALL, teachers and students can enter to win. In 2023, Wendy Wynter, a 20-year veteran teacher at the Lew Muckle Elementary School, was the lucky winner who traveled to Orlando, Florida.

The VIDE expresses gratitude to everyone for their efforts and extends heartfelt thanks to the community for their support of public education in the Virgin Islands.

 

Download press release here:  pdf PRESS RELEASE 0213 24 VIDE Thanks Tim Duncan Foundation ^0 ViVid Streaming for School Donations (85 KB)

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) proudly congratulates the remarkable students who participated in the District Spelling Bee competitions held on St. Croix and St. Thomas on Thursday, February 15, 2024. A total of 24 students showcased their exceptional spelling prowess and intellectual acumen as they took to the stage for rounds of competitive spelling. The exciting event brought together students from across both districts, each demonstrating remarkable dedication and determination.

Evan Fahie of Lockhart K-8 School clinched the title of winner for the St. Thomas-St. John District, while Rayan Felix of Free Will Baptist Christian School emerged victorious in the St. Croix District. Both winners are set to advance to the Territorial Competition scheduled for March 19, 2024, on St. Croix, where they will be joined by other district finalists, completing a pool of 12 students competing for the prestigious title of USVI Territorial Champion.

The St. Croix District Finalists include Chasidy Pickering from Pearl B. Larsen, Joseph Greaux from Eulalie Rivera, Jasem Rahhal from Good Hope Country Day School, J’adora Burke from Ricardo Richards, and Layla Jacobs from St. Patrick's Catholic School.

Meanwhile, the St. Thomas-St. John District Finalists consist of Kaiden Lettsome-Dowe from Antilles, Eli Blash from Moravian, Amera Paul from Calvary Christian, Kashyma Paul, Yvonne Bowsky, and Kwalane Flemming, from the Ulla Muller School.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the students who participated in this esteemed competition. Your passion for learning and your dedication to mastering the intricacies of language are truly commendable. Each participant should be immensely proud of their accomplishments, as they have undoubtedly left a lasting impression on all those who witnessed their extraordinary abilities,” said Commissioner Wells-Hedrington.

The VIDE expresses gratitude to all schools, teachers, coaches, parents, and guardians who have supported these students. Your unwavering encouragement and guidance have undoubtedly played a significant role in their success. A tremendous thank you is also extended to the Virgin Islands Daily News for their years of sponsorship and continuous support.

As we celebrate the achievements of these talented students, we recognize the importance of education in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. The District Spelling Bee not only highlights the academic achievements of our students but also underscores the value of literacy and communication skills in today's society. To view additional pictures of the district spelling bee competitions, visit: www.vide.vi

For more pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/wpBX1EWzL8DZSJ4V6

Download press release here:  pdf PRESS RELEASE 0212 24 VIDE ANNOUNCES DISTRICT SPELLING BEE WINNERS Evan Fahie STTJ and Rayan Felix STX (146 KB)