The Pearl B. Larsen K-8 School hosted a vibrant cultural fair on August 22, 2024, featuring a special musical program by the International Chamber Orchestra of Puerto Rico. This event was a collaborative effort involving the Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education, the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, the Virgin Islands Department of Education’s Music and Bilingual Education Division, and the Pearl B. Larsen School Administration.

Under the direction of Maestro Emilio Colón, the International Chamber Orchestra of Puerto Rico is renowned for its dynamic performances that blend traditional and contemporary sounds. The orchestra captivates audiences on major stages worldwide with its innovative approach, showcasing the diverse musical traditions of the Caribbean and other global regions.

The orchestra's visit offered students an extraordinary opportunity to engage with world-class musicians and experience a fusion of musical traditions in a live setting. During the event, students were dazzled by an operatic performance and the mastery of various instruments, including century-old cellos crafted in Italy. Members of the school's vibrant violin club were particularly excited to meet the performers and learn firsthand about the art of playing these historic instruments.

 “The musicians were musical role models, personable, and professional. Our students gained a miniature dose of classical and Latin culture, mixed with a Caribbean flair. The experience was most enlightening and inspired new students to grow a desire to join our school’s violin club,” said Joanna Brow, Principal of Pearl B. Larsen K-8.

Stephanie Chalana Brown, State Director of the Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education, also expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "It’s delightful for our students to experience all variations of culture, both internationally and locally. Exposure like this gives our students a greater look at the global heritage and enriches their understanding of the world around them."

The orchestra's performance amazed the entire student body, leaving them eager for more. The hope is that this experience will deepen their appreciation for the rich diversity of both Caribbean and international musical traditions.

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Download press release here:  pdf Press Release 0815 24 International Orchestra Performance at Pearl B Larsen (173 KB)

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is actively addressing a disruption in school operations that occurred at Charlotte Amalie High School today due to a teacher job action. This action, prompted by concerns about working conditions, led to several interruptions in classes this morning. Despite the disruptions, the school remained in session, with students and teachers relocated to alternative spaces to continue instruction. Regular school operations will resume on August 30th.

The VIDE advocates for collaborative communication between the AFT Union, its members, and the Department, particularly when addressing concerns that may lead to actions like today's. The union has open channels to communicate with school administration through the principal. In this instance, had these channels been utilized, the union would have been informed that an A/C vendor was already on campus at the time of the job action, and that a mold remediation team was on-site preparing for work scheduled this weekend.

The VIDE respects the rights of educators to advocate for their needs and recognizes the significance of their concerns. The Department is committed to ensuring conducive learning environments for all students and staff. Addressing necessary maintenance requirements has been and remains a top priority, independent of job actions. Efforts to tackle ongoing issues affecting our aging facilities have been in progress for some time.

Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington, Assistant Commissioner Victor Somme III, Superintendent Dr. Stefan Jürgen, Executive Director of the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance Craig Benjamin, and the school’s administrative team met with American Federation of Teachers President Leontyne Jones to discuss the concerns raised by teachers and students, many of which are already being addressed.

The specific issues highlighted, including classroom heat, malfunctioning air conditioning units, and mold, are currently being addressed. Contractors have been engaged and are actively working on the school campus. The air conditioning contractor was already on-site at the time of the job action, and mold remediation contractors are scheduled to begin their work on Saturday, August 31, 2024.

The VIDE acknowledges the importance of active and ongoing engagement with faculty, staff, and students regarding the status of school maintenance, including the challenges of contracting delays and the progress being made. The Department reaffirms its commitment to providing safe and comfortable environments for all students, faculty, and staff. The VIDE leadership, along with the school administration, will continue to work diligently to resolve any issues and to listen to the concerns of all stakeholders.

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Download press release here:  pdf PRESS RELEASE 0814 24 VIDE Responds to Teacher Job Action at Charlotte Amalie High School on August 29, 2024 (126 KB)