Teachers to receive discounts at local businesses

The Minister of Education, Dr Natalio Wheatley is asking for more local businesses to offer educators discounted rates during teacher’s week and the rest of October.

Dr Wheatley said he has already reached out to several local businesses with the request.

“Many have responded favourably. You will receive digital coupons either through your VI Schools email directly or from your principal. These coupons must be presented at the business to benefit from the discounts,” the minister stated on Wednesday.

Wheatley said he will also sponsor a happy hour for all educators on the four main islands from 4 pm to 6 pm on Friday, October 8.

“On Tortola, it will be at the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies, and on the other islands, your principal will inform you of the venues,” the Education Minister added.

Teachers will also receive $300 in reimbursements for a portion of personal funds used on the job. Wheatley says the money can be used for any reason and is not limited to school supplies.

“And of course, we are strong advocates for increases in salary for teachers, and we are looking forward to the salary review commissioned by Cabinet and being undertaken by the Deputy Governor’s Office via the human resource department,” he added.

World Teacher’s Day is celebrated worldwide on October 5. The theme for this year is “Teachers at the Heart of Education Recovery”.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) chose the theme every year. Wheatley noted he found the theme fitting as educators have shown perseverance and dedication during the ongoing pandemic and are key to a country’s recovery plan.