Deputy Commissioner for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Sarah Mahurt reminds all non-public schools to obtain a certificate of operation, or renew their current certificate, by Oct. 5. All applications will be reviewed by the Department of Education and certificates of operation will be issued if the school satisfies all applicable rules and regulations of the Virgin Islands Board of Education regarding:
1) -valid business licenses and certificates;
2) -school compliance with local and federal regulations
3) -the quality and content of educational courses proposed;
4) -adequate space, equipment, instructional material, and personnel;
5) -enrollment that is within reason;
6) -instructors that hold credentials of their profession;
7) -school records that show student attendance, progress and financial stability;
8) -a written copy of course outline, schedule of tuition, fees, and enrollment information.
Failure to comply with this request may lead to a nonpublic school being placed on probation and will affect the receipt of federal funds. “Schools may also seek accreditation through regional accrediting agencies,” Mahurt said. “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 regional accreditation certificate along with the appropriate business licenses.”
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. The checklist is also available online at www.doe.vi or can be sent by email by contacting drogers@sttj.k12.vi.
For more information, call 774-0100, ext. 8010 or 773-1095, extension 7090.
