Board of Education Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, next to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. (Shutterstock image)

The 21st Virgin Islands Board of Education (VIBE) wishes all educational partners and stakeholders a Happy New Year and continued success with the 2023 learning and social development goals.

Jan. 16 will be a memorable holiday for us to reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as an activist for social causes: civil & human rights, the economically disadvantaged, and persons who suffer educational and other injustices. Dr. King’s efforts and actions were peacefully demonstrated.

VIBE Chairman Dr. Kyza A. Callwood ask schools “to prepare our students to emphasize the significance of the holiday by hosting speeches, performances, and other celebrations.”

Students at all levels should know about the Nobel Peace Prize, boycotts, The March on Washington, non-violence, civil rights, segregation, racism and other relevant terminology. Dr. King’s famous quote still resonates today, “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.”

These discussions should provide critical insights to assist schools and students in addressing fighting, misunderstandings and violence. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “… you have come here out of great trials and tribulations … {but} … As we walk, we must pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back.”

The 21st Virgin Islands Board of Education looks forward to working with the community to activate ‘Dreams’ that will inspire and uplift – Let freedom ring for student achievement throughout the majestic Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands Board of Education’s (VIBE) offices in both districts will be closed on Monday, Jan. 16, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. VIBE offices will resume normal business hours at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 17.