Dear HAVO/VWO students of the Milton Peters College,
Thank you for bringing your concerns regarding the finalization of your School Exams. This academic year is an exceptional one; however, we are determined to ensure that you have an opportunity to conclude this year successfully.
On March 17th, 2020, during the State of Emergency related to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the decision was made by the Emergency Operation Center to close schools as a precautionary measure. The State of Emergency was declared in an effort to keep us healthy, safe, and to mitigate the spread of the corona virus. Given the need for an immediate switch in the mode of education delivery, all school boards were requested to put in place contingency plans to ensure the continuity of education on March 13th, 2020. From the time of the closing of schools to today’s date, my Ministry and I have consistently communicated with all stakeholders that Examination students from Secondary Education must be prioritized.
The contingency plans, which were to go into effect for all school boards as per March 25th, 2020, detailed the means by which all school boards would ensure that education would continue during these unprecedented times. The sudden switch to distance learning was done for the first time on our island for all levels of education. Globally, online teaching became a new normal. With increased pressure on internet service, there have been some challenges.
The decision communicated to school boards by me on May 11th, 2020, allowing for Examination Candidates to complete their School Based Assessments or Exams at school, was necessary. This was made possible after our health officials indicated that the island’s containment strategies were proving to be effective, and that some de-escalation strategies were set in place. In line with this, all efforts are being made for you to finalize your exams while following strict guidelines.
Your school board has been given the opportunity to facilitate your exams and pre-classes (if necessary) at school, providing the safety protocols stipulated by our health professionals are adhered to. During this time, all other Secondary Education students will continue with online classes at home.
Possibilities for the adjustment for finalizing of the PTA is stipulated in the adjusted policy outlined in the Service Document for Secondary Education, which was provided to your school (board). It is imperative that these regulations be strictly followed, in order to guarantee the validity of your diploma. We have ensured that the guidelines for our students are aligned with the rest of the Kingdom.
Being a HAVO/VWO student means, you are among Sint Maarten’s best academically. Rounding off this academic year, preparing for students to further their education here and abroad and preparing for the upcoming academic school year, are very important also and have my fullest attention. Be strong and stay focused.
Thanking you again for bringing your concerns to my attention, hoping to have brought clarity and wishing you much success with your exams, I remain.
