GOVERNANCE AT GVP SCHOOL
School board
The Foundation for the Promotion of Secondary Education in St. Eustatius is the competent authority of the GvP School. The aim of the Foundation is to promote secondary education “without distinction of religion, following and considering the wishes of the parents about religious education and in compliance with the applicable legal requirements.”
The Foundation is managed by a school board of a minimum 3 members (see Statutes). Two members of the school board function as executive board members: Mrs. M. Schmidt and Mr. R.Oleana. The remaining members of the school board function as supervisory board members. The school board is supported by a staff officer, Mr. C. Lindo.
The GvP School Directorate consists of the Director, Mrs. F. Lagcher, and Deputy Director, Ms. V. Bennett.
Good governance, integrity, and accountability
The Supervisory and Executive Board members are responsible for the development and implementation of good governance and compliance with the Good Governance Code.
The GvP School is a community school, offering inclusive education, and we take this responsibility very seriously. The School Board is committed to providing transparency about the operations and governance at our school and providing accountability to our community in an open and clear manner. We achieve this through:
- Publication of important documents and reports: We ensure that important documents and reports are accessible to anyone interested in GvP School. This includes the GvP School Annual Report 2023, GvP School Annual Report 2024, the GvP School Plan 2022-2026, and evaluations and results of our education.
- Open Dialogue: We maintain an active and open dialogue with our students and their parents/guardians, our teachers and support staff, and our external stakeholders. Through regular information and consultation meetings, and feedback sessions and surveys, we ensure that all voices are heard and that we work together to continuously improve our school and education.
- Compliance with the Good Governance Code: We operate in accordance with the Good Governance Code and explain any deviations from this in our annual report. This means we are committed to principles of good governance, integrity, and accountability.
The Board trusts that with this approach of transparency and openness, we not only meet our obligations to the GvP School community but also create an environment in which our education can further improve.
Accountability lines at GvP School

President of the school board’s address
Welcome to the start of a brand-new academic year—2025–2026—at the Gwendoline van Putten School! It is with great pride and renewed enthusiasm that I greet you as we embark together on another year of learning, growth, and transformation.
Each new school year brings with it the promise of possibility—a fresh opportunity to learn, to evolve, and to build on the strong foundation of excellence that defines our school. This year, we continue to strengthen our vision of making GvP a place where every student is empowered to succeed, every teacher is supported to inspire, and every parent and partner is valued as part of our shared journey.
To our returning students, welcome back! Your continued dedication and energy remind us of what makes our school community truly special. May this year bring you new challenges to conquer and new accomplishments to celebrate.
To our new students, we are thrilled to have you join us. You are now part of a proud and caring community where learning is not just about textbooks, but about discovering who you are and who you can become. Remember—this is your space to dream big, to explore, and to grow.
To our teachers and staff, both returning and new, I extend heartfelt appreciation. Your commitment and hard work form the backbone of our school’s progress. You not only teach, but also guide, mentor, and uplift our students every single day. This year, as we continue improving the quality of education and strengthening our culture of safety and support, your role remains more vital than ever.
As we open the doors to the 2025–2026 school year, let us do so with a spirit of collaboration and optimism. Let kindness and respect be the pillars of our daily interactions. Let curiosity lead us, courage strengthens us, and compassion connects us. Together, we will continue shaping a learning environment where every voice matters and every achievement is celebrated.
May this year be filled with success, discovery, and unity. Let us continue writing the GvP story—one of resilience, growth, and shared pride.
Welcome to the GvP School year 2025–2026—let’s make it purposeful, positive, and truly extraordinary!
Warm regards,
Candidia Woodley
President of the School Board
Gwendoline van Putten School