Exploring the USVI’s Educational Ecosystem
RTPark backs a thriving business community intertwined with a robust educational foundation. With a focus on STEM initiatives like the RTPark STEM Enrichment Program , RTPark fosters a generation well-versed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These educational endeavors extend beyond mere skill-building, creating a dynamic ecosystem where businesses find a skilled workforce, and the community benefits from a well-educated populace.
Educational Infrastructure
The Island has different schools across the St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John Districts. Since the devastating hurricanes in 2017, the Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) has embarked on a monumental journey of rebuilding and transforming its educational infrastructure. With FEMA obligations totaling approximately $399 million, VIDE has committed to replacing and repairing major schools across both districts, ushering in a new era of state-of-the-art educational institutions.
Ongoing Projects
St. Croix: Alexander Henderson, Claude O. Markoe, and St. Croix Educational Complex are undergoing schematic design efforts, with completion expected by December 2023 and early 2024.
St. Thomas: Lockhart Elementary School and Edith L. Williams Alternative Academy are slated for renovation, with designs anticipated to conclude by early 2024.
VIDE recently concluded solicitations for key projects, awarding design-build services for St. Croix Central High School to MCN Build and a joint venture by Consigli/Benton for St. Thomas Charlotte Amalie High School and the modernization of Bertha C. Boschulte.
Educational Options
Public, Private, and Parochial Institutions: The USVI offers a wide range of educational options, including public, private, and parochial institutions. Special education services are also readily available, ensuring that every learner has the support they need to thrive.
Public Schools: Run by the Virgin Islands Department of Education, the public school system serves 13,805 students across 28 schools territory-wide, spread across the St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John Districts.
STEM Education and Programs
K-12 Initiatives: Our commitment to shaping a tech-savvy future focuses on K-12 initiatives that integrate STEM education into foundational years. These programs, such as the VI STEM Kids program, introduce students to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, fostering practical learning experiences through partnerships with local businesses and tech companies.
Aviation Program: The Virgin Islands Chapter Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (VICTAI), in collaboration with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) and Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (TAI), facilitates opportunities for students to participate in training programs and field trips conducted by aviation professionals. The ACE Academies, co-sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), collectively impact 1,500–2,000 students each summer.
Higher Education and Vocational Training
As students progress in their educational journey, opportunities for advanced education and skills development are available through local institutions like the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI). Programs like VIEPSCOR emphasize experiential learning and resilience-focused research.
St. Croix District
St. Croix boasts over two dozen primary and secondary education institutions, offering a comprehensive learning environment. Additionally, the district hosts higher education options like the UVI Albert A. Sheen Campus and the St. Croix Educational Complex Vocational School.
St. Thomas/St. John District
Hosting a UVI campus, this district serves as a hub for higher learning. For St. John, students travel daily via ferry boat to St. Thomas for high school education.
Free Tuition
The VI Higher Education Scholarship Program, also known as the Free Tuition program, makes UVI the first HBCU to offer free tuition. Eligible students benefit from accessible higher education, ensuring talent retention within the local community.
Get Involved
The USVI has taken impactful initiatives to transform into a hub for top-quality education. Businesses are encouraged to invest and relocate to the USVI to access a skilled workforce. Residents are also urged to explore educational opportunities and contribute to the sector's growth. Contact us today!