Territory’s Public Schools Open with Excitement and Challenges

As public schools across the territory opened their doors on Monday, students, families and faculty welcomed the start of a new academic year with a mix of excitement and anticipation.

For many, the day marked a reunion for friends and a return to structured learning after the long summer break. At Joseph Gomez Elementary School on St. Thomas, Joyann Foster, a music teacher entering her fifth year, expressed her enthusiasm for enhancing the school’s music program. “I’m ready for the opportunity to enhance the music program and have more in-school performances on campus,” Foster said. “I love to see students express music in new and different ways.”

Nearby, Jaiel Bedminster dropped off his daughter, Lynelle, 7, and son, Jaiel Jr., 4. “The staff at the school are always very welcoming, and the kids are very happy here,” he said. “I’m excited for them to have a great school year, make the honor roll again, and hear about all the things they learned at the end of the day.”