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Office of Public Relations and Communications

About Us

The Virgin Islands Department of Education’s Office of Public Relations and Communications exists to heighten the public’s awareness of the Department’s mission to ensure that all students are prepared for college or the career of their choice upon graduation from high school.

In support of the mission, the Public Relations Office provides publicity for events, activities and the many successes of the Department’s schools, students, teachers, employees and leadership through internal and external communication.

The Office of Public Relations and Communication, through an integrated marketing communications approach services the marketing, branding, public, and media relations, advertising and graphic design needs of the Department, districts, and schools.

The Public Relations Office reports directly to the Commissioner of Education.

 

Ricardo Richards Elementary School on St. Croix Recognized as National Blue Ribbon School

The Virgin Islands Department of Education is pleased to publicly announce that today, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recognized the Ricardo Richards Elementary School on St. Croix as one of 356 schools, that make up the 2024 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools.

"I am incredibly proud to congratulate Ricardo Richards Elementary School for earning the prestigious distinction of a National Blue Ribbon School in 2024. This honor reflects the dedication, leadership, and excellence of Principal Natasha O’Halloran-Smith, her outstanding administrative team, and the entire faculty and staff. I commend the students and parents who, together, have set a high standard for academic achievement and community collaboration. Your hard work and commitment are an inspiration to all schools across the Virgin Islands, and we celebrate your remarkable accomplishment as part of the 2024 cohort,” said Commissioner Wells-Hedrington.

The U.S. Department of Education officially revealed the listing of schools today in an official press release at 1:00 pm. The information is shared below:

“The National Blue-Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”

The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.

A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation. The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates.

Download press release here:  pdf Press Release 0909 24 Ricardo Richards Elementary School on St Croix Recognized as National Blue Ribbon School (135 KB)

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VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ALERTS PUBLIC TO FAKE ANNOUNCEMENT

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is urging the public to disregard a false announcement labeled “Public Notice: Free Online Course” and an article that is currently circulating regarding free online courses. This fraudulent announcement misrepresents the Department by unauthorized use of the VIDE’s official template, logo, and an image of the Commissioner.

We want to make it clear that this announcement was not generated by the Virgin Islands Department of Education, and the free online course described is not an offering from the Department. A closer look reveals a number of discrepancies, including the improper use of the phrase "Ministry of Education," an incorrect date format, and misleading information.

The Virgin Islands Department of Education’s logo, template, and the image of our Commissioner were used without permission. We do not endorse this announcement and urge the public to be vigilant in identifying clickbait scams or fraudulent content.

Additionally, the VIDE does not post content on any page called "Lifestyle Center" nor has the Department issued any press release to a site known as "buzznewsfeedarticle." The misuse of our branding and image has been reported to the appropriate authorities for investigation and action.

We encourage the public to remain cautious and verify the source of any announcement that claims to be from the Virgin Islands Department of Education. Official VIDE information is always shared through our verified VIDE communication channels.

 

Download press releae here:  pdf Press Release 0908 24 VIDE ALERTS PUBLIC TO FAKE ANNOUNCEMENT (132 KB)

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VIRGIN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ALERTS PUBLIC TO FAKE ANNOUNCEMENT

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is urging the public to disregard a false announcement labeled “Public Notice: Free Online Course” and an article that is currently circulating regarding free online courses. This fraudulent announcement misrepresents the Department by unauthorized use of the VIDE’s official template, logo, and an image of the Commissioner.

We want to make it clear that this announcement was not generated by the Virgin Islands Department of Education, and the free online course described is not an offering from the Department. A closer look reveals a number of discrepancies, including the improper use of the phrase "Ministry of Education," an incorrect date format, and misleading information.

The Virgin Islands Department of Education’s logo, template, and the image of our Commissioner were used without permission. We do not endorse this announcement and urge the public to be vigilant in identifying clickbait scams or fraudulent content.

Additionally, the VIDE does not post content on any page called "Lifestyle Center" nor has the Department issued any press release to a site known as "buzznewsfeedarticle." The misuse of our branding and image has been reported to the appropriate authorities for investigation and action.

We encourage the public to remain cautious and verify the source of any announcement that claims to be from the Virgin Islands Department of Education. Official VIDE information is always shared through our verified VIDE communication channels.

 

Download press releae here:  pdf Press Release 0908 24 VIDE ALERTS PUBLIC TO FAKE ANNOUNCEMENT (132 KB)

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St. Thomas

1834 Kongens Gade, St. Thomas, VI 00802
Phone: 340-774-0100

Curriculum Center:
340-775-2250
Mon – Fri:  8AM – 5PM

          

St. Croix

2133 Hospital Street, Christiansted, St. Croix, VI 00820
Phone: 340-773-1095

Curriculum Center:
340-778-1600
Mon – Fri:  8AM – 5PM

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