Urge public school administrators to stay focused despite any obstacles

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna-Martin thanked public school administrators for the important role they play in a complex and challenging education system.

“We know that the task ahead of us is daunting. That is why we must remain steadfast, remain focused and persevere despite obstacles,” the Education Secretary said during the Ministry of Education’s annual public school administrators’ conference held at Life Changers International Ministries on Monday, August 19, 2024, under the theme “Navigating the Future; Charting the Path to Educational Excellence.”

She said the theme was very fitting as it foresaw the need for a compass in the future to help steer the country’s education system in the right direction.

“We need a compass because it is not enough to just look at the stars right now. We must be guided by solid data, empirical evidence and smart policies to achieve the outcomes or goals we seek.”

She said the role of managers in achieving this goal and the ultimate development of the country is crucial and cannot be overemphasized.

The Education Minister said the purpose of holding the annual gathering of public school administrators is to support and help them strengthen their capacity as campus leaders so that they can lead more effectively.

She noted that during last year’s session, about 430 public school administrators received training in 24 focus areas.

“This year’s conference will be even more dynamic, collaborative and inspiring, and we anticipate 475 school leaders will participate in several professional development sessions over the next two days.”

Minister Hannah Martin said this year’s conference would focus on building capacity, strengthening partnerships and professional collaboration, while providing support for all school leaders.

“Senior professional practitioners from the Department of Education and industry experts will lead sessions to equip you with the knowledge you need to lead effectively. The strength of our public education system depends on our school leaders.”

The conference also facilitates communication, sharing of ideas, candid conversations, stronger connections and enthusiastic networking, she said.

The Minister praised the dedication of administrators in navigating an imperfect system in an imperfect world, especially in the wake of the challenges posed to the education system by the COVID-19 pandemic.

She also noted that the Department of Education is addressing administrators’ concerns and will do everything it can to advocate for them, even though it may be hindered by bureaucracy and procedures.

The minister added that the ministry was working to resolve all outstanding human resource issues and had addressed leadership deficits on school campuses.

“We work hard to boost the morale of our team members, who you rely on to achieve your goals and objectives and the goals of the department. This includes teachers and support staff,” she said.

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Also present were Permanent Secretary Lorraine Armbrister, Deputy Secretary Sonia Culmer, Deputy Permanent Secretary KeyShan Bastian, Deputy Permanent Secretary Ricardo Deveaux, Deputy Permanent Secretary Chilean Burrows, Director of Education Dominique McCartney Russell and Deputy Director Charmaine Sinclair.