PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — Minister of Education Culture Youth & Sports The Honorable Silveria Jacobs, has been visiting both primary and secondary schools in her efforts to introduce herself in the capacity of Minister to both students and staff. These introductory school visits started on Thursday, December 3rd at the M.G de Weever primary school and ended at Str. Borgia primary school on Thursday, December 17th.
Minister Jacobs, a former teacher and student care coordinator at the Leonald Connor School and former principal of the Martin Luther King Jr. school was greeted with an abundance of excitement from both primary and secondary school students and staff as well. Receiving tokens of appreciation, musical performances, poems and words of encouragement throughout her visits. Similarly, the students, staff members also gave the Minister warm welcomes into the schools and expressed their gratitude to the Minister for her visit.
While speaking to the students, Minister Jacobs encouraged each student to put their full efforts into studies and to take advantage of the resources available to them. Turning the attention to the staff, the Minister also encouraged educators to promote open communication and free thinking with students to make them feel important. Focusing on enthusiasm and praise your students often which can encourage more eager learning.
During her time at the school, the Minister also took the time to introduce and explain each letter of the acronym R.I.C.E, 4 rules to live by. R, for Respect. Each student should have respect for themselves and others. I, Impulse Control, doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason. C, Compassion for all, being considerate to peers, friends and family. E ,Equity means giving everyone what they deserve.
Students were encouraged to be proud Sint Maarteners and chant “I am Sint Maarten” in unison with teachers, staff and the Hon. Minister, who promised that the Ministry would continue to strive for excellence in providing opportunities for Education and Development of the whole child and youth of Sint Maarten.
Students, teachers, staff and Management of all schools were wished a Happy, Safe and Blessed Christmas and continued success in 2016 as they endeavor to do their very best to be the best.
Minister Jacobs also stressed to the students the importance of knowing their rights. Stating that a strong child, supported by strong families and teachers will certainly nurture a strong and productive society.
