The Virgin Islands Department of Education is updating its registry of nonpublic schools operating in the territory. All nonpublic schools must obtain a new certificate of operation from the department or renew their certificate by Nov. 3, according to Dr. Sarah Mahurt, deputy commissioner for Curriculum and Instruction.
“The Department of Education will review all applications to operate nonpublic schools and issue the Certificate of Operation if the school satisfies the rules and regulations of the Virgin Islands Board of Education regarding: ‘1) the quality and content of educational courses proposed; 2) adequate space, equipment, instructional material and personnel; 3) enrollment that is within reason; 4) instructors that hold credentials of their profession; 5) administrators, owners and directors are of good and moral reputation, and demonstrate professional character; 6) school compliance with local and federal regulations; 7) school records that show student attendance, progress and financial stability; 8) a course outline given to students upon enrollment; and 9) a written copy of course outline, schedule of tuition, fees and enrollment information (V.I. Code Ann. tit. 17, § 194),’ ” said Dr. Mahurt.
Education may provide accreditation for nonpublic schools (V.I. Code Ann. tit. 17, §§ 192, 193). “Accreditation goes beyond the requirements for the Certificate of Operation,” said Mahurt. “Schools that wish to be accredited should complete the accreditation process through a regional accrediting agency, such as the Middle States Association, and then submit a copy of the certificate to the Department of Education. Schools currently accredited may submit a copy of their existing accreditation certificate. A Virgin Islands Department of Education accreditation certificate will be issued to schools that have a valid regional accreditation certificate.”
She said that a checklist is available to guide schools in completing the work for the Certificate of Operation and can be obtained at the VIDE offices on St. Thomas at 1834 Kongens Gade and on St. Croix at 2133 Hospital Street, Christiansted. It is also available online at www.doe.vi or can be made available via e-mail by contacting lbonelli@sttj.k12.vi.
For more information, call 774-0100, ext. 8044 or 773-1095, ext. 7090.
