COMPULSORY EDUCATION
Attendance
According to the Compulsory Education Law BES all parents must make sure that their children attend school on a regular basis. As of August 1, 2007, the law states that all children, no matter what gender, or status (legal or illegal) or religion, between ages 4 to 18 must attend school regularly (December 1, 2008, special edition). It is important for the continuity of the program and the children’s best interest that attendance be consistent and punctual.
Absence
In accordance with the Compulsory Education Laws, parents/guardians must inform the school in time in writing of their children’s absence and must first receive permission from the school principal before allowing the child to be absent from school. Excused absence is those resulting from illness, attendance at funerals or emergencies due to unforeseen circumstances. Any student absent from school is required in every instance to present a written excuse stating the reason for his/her absence and signed by a parent or guardian. Habitual absences are subject to disciplinary action in the form of a warning or a monetary fine from the Compulsory Education Officer.
Late Attendance/ Tardiness
If the student is late for class, he/she is expected to report immediately at the school’s administration’s office to collect a late letter. If the student reports to class without this late letter the teacher is entitled to send him/her to the office to collect a late letter. The subject teacher registers the student’s tardiness in the School Information System (PowerSchool/Schoology). The administration puts the student’s name on the list of late-comers and it is expected of the student that he/she reports for detention (which is every school day from 3 to 4 o’ clock) on the same day of his/her tardiness. If the student fails to report for detention after being late, his/her time will be doubled. Students who totally neglect this rule run the risk of being suspended.
Compulsory education and compulsory qualification
In keeping with the Compulsory Education Law BES, all children on St. Eustatius must attend school. Compulsory education goes into effect from the first day of the month following a child’s fourth (4th) birthday until the end of the school year in which the child turns 16 years old. Additionally, students have a qualification obligation until they reach 18. A start qualification is obtained when a student received a CSEC or CVQ level 2 diploma. Students who haven’t obtained a start qualification are obliged to follow one form of education or the other in order to obtain one (until they are 18 years old).
Supervision
The Executive Council of St. Eustatius supervises the adherence to Education Law BES and has appointed a Compulsory Education Officer to perform this task. This individual is Ms. Nadjesca Henriquez. For further information regarding the rights and responsibilities of the school, parents/ guardians, and students under the Compulsory Education Law BES, feel free to contact her at Tel. 318 2665 / 318 8185 or nadjesca.henriquez@statiagov.com or visit the office at The Rock on Father van Teeffelenweg #8.
THE ROCK – EARLY FAMILY SUPPORT
Early family support is a new service from the Government of St. Eustatius that is about providing children and families, regardless of age, with the support they require as needs present themselves. This will help your family access the right service when you need it. We understand that all families are different and can face many challenges. Sometimes it is difficult to know which way to turn. We offer advice and guidance on what may help your family.
The pedagogical advisor works closely with the schools in supporting children, teachers and parents alike when there may be issues of a challenging nature. The pedagogical advisor offers a range of interventions or counseling programs to all students that will address their social-emotional, and behavioral needs. And giving teachers and parents that extra support where needed to help the student/child(ren) achieve their full potential.
WHEN TO CONSIDER EARLY FAMILY SUPPORT
- The child’s needs are unclear, or broader than you can address alone.
- A significant change or worrying feature in a child’s appearance, demeanor, behavior or health.
- A significant event in a child’s life has occurred, or where there are worries about the parents or home. Where a child, parent or another practitioner has raised a concern or requested an assessment.
- Parental elements, e.g. substance misuse, domestic violence, physical or mental health issues or criminality. Missing developmental milestones or making slower progress than expected in their learning.
- Child presenting challenging or aggressive behaviors, misusing substances or committing offences.
- Bereaved or experiencing family breakdown.
- Homeless or being threatened with eviction or living in temporary accommodation.
- Becoming a teenage mother/ father or is the child of teenage parents.
TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
How do you request early family support for your child and family? You can access our services through:
- Your child’s daycare center, school or afterschool program
- Baby clinic
- Office of Court of Guardianship
- Youth Care (ZJCN)
- Expertise Centre Education Care (ECE)
- Midwife / Doctors
Alternatively, you can call us and speak to the pedagogical adviser, or visit our office and speak face to face and discuss your needs.
CONTACT THE ROCK
If you have any questions or wish to see me about your child(ren), you can contact me by phone or WhatsApp: +599 319 5372 or email: monica.smith@statiagov.com or visit The Rock office at: Father van Teeffelenweg #8.