The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Chilesa J. Ready, Esq., as the new Legal Counsel for the Department. With extensive experience and a diverse skill set, Attorney Ready brings a wealth of knowledge to the VIDE.

Attorney Ready is an accomplished attorney, speaker, writer, and educator who has served in various prominent legal roles. Prior to joining the VIDE, she was a Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable Willard Proctor Jr. of the 5th Division Circuit Court in Arkansas, an Assistant Attorney General in the Civil Division of the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office, and most recently, a Staff Attorney and VOCA Director at Legal Services of the Virgin Islands.

Attorney Ready earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Political Science from Tougaloo College and her Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas William H. Bowen School of Law. She is licensed to practice law in Arkansas, Arizona, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Her impressive career also includes time as a high school English teacher in San Antonio, Texas, where she focused on education while raising her family.

Attorney Ready is committed to service and community involvement. Her volunteerism includes work with Prison Fellowship, Hope Women’s Center, and the Family Resource Center. A staunch advocate for education, Attorney Ready believes in the power of commitment and hard work, and her personal motto, "Nothing is Impossible When You Take the Limits Off Your Life," reflects her passion for making a positive impact.

Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington expressed her excitement about Attorney Ready's appointment, stating, "We are pleased to welcome Attorney Ready to the Virgin Islands Department of Education. Her extensive legal experience, dedication to service, and commitment to education will be invaluable as she works to support our mission of providing quality education and resources for students, employees, and families across the Virgin Islands."

The Virgin Islands Department of Education is confident that Attorney Ready’s skills, experience, and passion will contribute greatly to the Department’s ongoing efforts to enhance educational opportunities and outcomes for all stakeholders.

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The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is proud to announce the launch of the inspiring student-written anthology, “Overcoming,” a testament to the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of twelve remarkable students from the St. Thomas-St. John District. This anthology, a collection of personal stories, captures the tenacity, pride, and hope of these young authors as they recount their experiences during the unprecedented challenges posed by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 and the global COVID-19 pandemic.

The students who have courageously stepped into the role of authors include Masa Alakhras, Ne'Keyla Amey, Te'Naii Bernard, Darnell Birmingham, Shaynee Cherival, Micah Crawford, Judah Frett, Seyah Graham, M'Azhi Harrigan, Alondra James, Nakyla King, and J'Shara Simon. Their stories are a vivid reflection of their determination to overcome adversity and their belief in a brighter future.

“I extend my deepest congratulations to all twelve students. Your willingness to share your experiences, to let your voices be heard, and to offer a window into your journeys is nothing short of inspiring. You have not only chronicled the adversities you faced but also highlighted the incredible resilience and determination that have carried you through these times. Your stories will undoubtedly resonate with many and serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration,” said Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington.

The St. Thomas-St. John District thanks everyone who supported the students on this incredible journey. Heartfelt gratitude is especially extended to Dr. Teshanne Phillip, who played a pivotal role in guiding the students throughout the months-long project. Dr. Phillip served as a mentor and provided invaluable support during the entire process.

“It was not an easy task, but I enjoyed every minute of it. The students learned how to brainstorm by creating outlines for their thoughts and experiences, gained knowledge in creative writing, explored editorial skills, and discovered the power of teamwork while using one voice,” said Dr. Phillip. She further added, “This group of authors represents the youngest writers I have ever worked with, and I must say they are among the most creative, intelligent, and articulate individuals I have encountered since starting my publishing company, The Phillip Publishing Group.”

“Overcoming” is more than just a book; it is a celebration of our students' accomplishments and a testament to the strength of our community. It is a call to action for others to share their stories, find solace in shared experiences, and recognize that through unity and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle. The book can be purchased from the St. Thomas-St. John District Office of the Insular Superintendent at Tutu Park Mall. Support our student authors by grabbing your copy of the book!

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VIEW BOOK PROMO HERE:  https://youtu.be/my9Sf4_RDkM

Stay tuned to the Virgin Islands Department of Education's YouTube page for a special video featuring the students as they share their experiences from this incredible journey!

 

Download press release here:  pdf PRESS RELEASE 08011 24 VIDE Announces the Launch of a Remarkable Student Written Anthology, Titled “Overcoming” (1) (186 KB)