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Patrice Underscores The Importance Of StrongGlobal Governance In Face Of Climate Change

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — The Kingdom of the Netherlands signals its commitment to the development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) by sending a significant delegation to the 4th United Nations Conference on SIDS. Under the overarching theme of Charting the Course Toward Resilient Prosperity,” the conference aims to evaluate the progress of SIDS in achieving sustainable development, including the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals.

For the first time, the Dutch delegation includes representatives not only from the four constituent countriesAruba, Curaao, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlandsbut also from the three special municipalities of Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius Read more

Windward Islands Teachers Union (Witu) Launches Comprehensive Policy Handbook For Members

Philipsburg – The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) proudly announces the release of its groundbreaking Policy Handbook, aimed at fortifying and streamlining operations for its esteemed members. This comprehensive handbook addresses vital areas including Communication Procedures, Membership Dues Payment Policy and Procedure, Membership Withdrawal Policy and Procedure, Legal Support, Reporting a Complaint, Frequency of General Meetings, and Board Meetings.

Under the leadership of President Stuart Johnson, the WITU remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of educators in St Read more

Windward Islands Teachers Union (Witu) Announces Board Election

Philipsburg – The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) is pleased to announce the commencement of the board election process for the upcoming term. This critical event will determine the leadership and direction of the union for the next tenure.

Interested WITU members are invited to submit their nominations via email to witu.teachers@gmail.com.

Nominations should clearly state the desired position, either for the role of president or as a member of the board.

Th Read more

Witu Expresses Deep Disappointment In GovernmentS Handling Of Public Education

Philipsburg — Stuart Johnson, President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU), has voiced profound disappointment in the Government of St Maarten regarding the handling of matters within Public Education and the broader education sector.

President Johnson had anticipated that the commitment made to sign an agreement with the Government of St Maarten would have been prioritized, reflecting the collaborative efforts necessary for the advancement of education in St.Maarten.

Johnson drafted the agreement and repeatedly sought to have it signed by the Government of St.Maarten in anticipation that the mutual understanding would have been adhered to.

The agreement highlights the electrical works, air-conditioning in all classrooms/offices and other infrastructural works neccessary for all public schools.

Moreover, Johnson has diligently pursued resolutions to several unresolved matters in education, utilizing platforms such as the Committee for Civil Servants Unions (CCSU) to address these issues.

President Johnson emphasized, “Some might perceive my approach as an immediate recourse to the media Read more

Witu Attends Values Education Conference In Barbados

Philipsburg – The President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson, explored the possible commitment of WITU to promote a values-based education by participating in the Values Education Conference held in Barbados from October 12th to 14th, 2023.

In light of the recent surge in negativity and unfounded claims within our country, Mr Read more

Traffic Safety Concerns At Oranje Primary School Demand Immediate Action, Says Witu

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) is deeply concerned about the ongoing traffic safety issues that the staff and students of Oranje Primary School face daily. The school has been grappling with these challenges for many years, and President Stuart Johnson has issued a pressing call for immediate action to ensure the safety of all students and staff. Johnson said, Every day, students and staff must navigate a precarious situation as they board school buses at the crossroads of C.A Read more

Witu: The Future Classroom And The Urgent Need For Responsible Ai Integration

Philipsburg The landscape of education is undergoing a transformation powered by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI). As we step into an era of unparalleled technological progress, it is crucial to recognize the potential of AI in shaping the future classroom. However, concerns loom large over the responsible implementation of AI in education, highlighting the need for a balanced and thoughtful approach to ensure optimal learning outcomes for all, remarked Stuart Johnson President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union on Tuesday. Johnson, added, With AI’s capabilities to personalize learning experiences, provide instant feedback, and adapt to individual student needs, educators around the world need to explore innovative ways to harness its potential Read more

Witu Is Concerned About The Proposed National Health Insurance For St. Maarten

Philipsburg The President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU), Stuart Johnson, has voiced serious concerns about the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) in St. Maarten. Mr. Johnson’s concerns highlight issues related to public awareness, the quality of healthcare services, access to preventative care, medication policies, and the impact on the vulnerable in our country.

One of the primary concerns raised by Mr Read more

Witu To Host General Membership Meeting On Thursday

Philipsburg The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) is announcing its upcoming General Membership Meeting, scheduled to take place this Thursday. This meeting will bring together the esteemed members of WITU to discuss critical matters, share insights, and chart a collective course toward advancing education and further fostering the welfare of educators.

The General Membership Meeting will convene on Thursday, August 31st, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. at the WITU Office.

WITU recognizes the indispensable role that teachers play in shaping the minds of the next generation and acknowledges the importance of creating a strong network of educators who stand united in their mission to enhance education standards and advocate for the rights of teachers, said Stuart Johnson President of the WITU on Tuesday afternoon.

During this meeting, ourmembers can look forward to updates from the WITU leadership on recent union activities, discussions on pressing educational issues, and opportunities to voice their thoughts on matters impacting our teaching community Read more

Witu Calls On The Need For Air Conditioning And Improved Ventilation In Classrooms

Philipsburg – As the temperature rises and schools welcome students back for the new academic year, the issue of hot and uncomfortable classrooms is coming to the forefront. The lack of adequate air conditioning and proper ventilation in several of our nations educational institutions has raised concerns among parents, educators, and students alike. It’s time to prioritize the learning environment and take proactive measures to ensure the health, comfort, and productivity of all those within, Stuart Johnson President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) said on Monday.

Hot and stifling classrooms can have a detrimental impact on students’ ability to focus, learn, and engage effectively Read more

Witu Concerned About Cba

Philipsburg — “I am deeply concerned about the situation at the Charlotte Brookson Academy (CBA),” remarked Stuart Johnson President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU). Johnson sent a email correspondence to the board of CBA over the weekend questioning a number of concerns. One of the most alarming concerns was the situation regarding the Financial support of the CBA. “What is the situation regarding the Financial advisor of CBA? Has the staff of the CBA been fully informed about this development? Has a contingency plan been put in place? Who is responsible for the financial responsibilities now?” Johnson questioned. He minced no words in expressing, “if any negative impact happens to the staff or by extension the students, you will bare the full strength of the WITU Read more

Johnson Declared Cut Les Harris Cricket Tournament Officially Open

Philipsburg — The Les Harris Cricket Tournamentwas held in Trinidad from April 3 to 7, 2023 at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex.

Jamaica, Guyana, and Trinidad participated in the bi-annual Cricket Tournament of the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT).Stuart Johnson traveled to Trinidad as the 3rd Vice President of the CUT as the responsible CUT Officer supporting the host organization the Trinidad & Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA).

In his address, Johnson extended his appreciation to TTUTA for answering the call of CUT to host the Les Harris Cricket Competition which was put on hold since the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I am honored and proud to be part of the resumption of the CUT Les Harris Cricket Tournament which I assure you is here to stay on our sports Calendar of events,” declared Johnson.

Shortly after the official ceremony, Johnson also formally declared the tournament open Read more

Witu Proposes Adjustments To Salary Scales

— Laptops should be delivered soon —

Philipsburg The board of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) submitted a proposal for an adjustment to the Salary Scales of employees in Education.

The fight continues to ensure Education is truly prioritized in our Country as teachers should be respected and not be neglected, remarked Stuart Johnson President of the WITU.

Johnson submitted the proposal addressed to the Honorable Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs on Friday, 24thFebruary 2023 Read more

Witu Submits A Letter To Pm And Retells MlkS Reconstruction Origin

— No political agenda —

Philipsburg — ThePresident of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson stated, We want to see a genuine effort to truly ensure one of our nations greatest assets, teachers and staff in education are properly taken care of.

Johnson minced no words in expressing that the WITU is not being political, “I understand with our Country seemingly heading into yet another election, I expect some level of rhetoric, but I had hoped that there would be some improvements to the level of discourse and the rhetoric would be less especially from a Member of Parliament.”

The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) submitted a letter to Honorable Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs and the Council of Ministers on Friday, February 10th,2023.

In the letter,the WITU stated, The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) board attended a meeting with you and the Ministers of ECYS, TEATT, and Finance on Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 Read more

Witu Sends A Number Of Concerns To Pm And Minister Of Education

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — The President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson sent an e-mail earlier today to both the Honorable Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs and Minister of Education Rudolph Samuel covering a number of concerns affecting the education sector in St Read more

Witu Demands An Explanation From Doran

Philipsburg — President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson met with mainly WITU members of Government subsidized school boards on Wednesday afternoon.

“The reality of their hardship caused by the non-payment of the vacation allowance was brought forward,” Johnson said.

Present in the meeting were union colleagues of the WISCU/PSU, NAPB, SMCU, ABVO and WIFOL in soalidarity.

Johnson before delving into the outcomes of the general membership meeting referenced his concerns about the remarks made by Deputy Prime Minister Egbert Doran.

“I believe the Honorable Minister Doran owes teaching, non-teaching staff and by extension the nation an explanation or an apology,” Johnson stated.

In the spirit of transparency, Minister Doran should explain the outcome of the meeting held with the Minister of Finance Ardwell Irion regarding the solution of the vacation allowance payment which he alluded to during the Council of Ministers Press Briefing on August 10, 2022.

He added, “it seems to be obvious from listening to remarks made in the recent Council of Ministers Press Briefing that he not only misspoke but gave a false hope to educators.”

The WITU President expressed that, “in these challenging and financially difficult times you simply do not make such frivolous statements.”

However, if Minister Doran has a solution we are eager to hear such Read more

Witu Makes An Urgent Plea To Pm Jacobs Via Letter

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — On Tuesday, August 9th,2022 the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) submitted a letter addressed to the Honorable Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs titled, Discrimination created among the teachers with non-payment of vacation allowance to subsidize school.

President of the WITU Stuart Johnson stated in his letter, As President of the WITU, I would like to bring the following to your attention requesting your intervention in this matter to bring equality, peace, and tranquility among the teaching fraternity in our beloved country.

As we stand at the beginning of the new school year 2022-2023, the board of the WITU is deeply concerned about the fact that to date the teaching and non-teaching staff employed at the various Government-subsidized schools boards with the exception of the Protestant Christian Schools (3%), have not received their vacation allowance as yet.

Johnson continued in his letter stating, In representing and looking after the best interest of all concerned, WITU held various meetings with the stakeholders to come to a consensus and solution as it pertains the vacation allowance that was paid since June 15th, 2022 to civil servants and employees of the public education.

Needless to say that this has created a sense of discrimination and lack of equality in the education field to teaching and non-teaching staff.

Even though WITU can empathize with the school boards, the fact is that one school board has paid 3% Read more

Witu Host Creative Exchange Event

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) hosted a creative exchange for its members on Friday, August 5th. President of the WITU Stuart Johnson said, “Assisting our members in any way possible will remain one of the primary goals for our members.” Members of the WITU had the opportunity to make educational posters for their classrooms or offices with resources made available by the WITU. The event took place at the WITU’s office from 12 pm until 6 pm with complimentary snacks and drinks. “Preparing classrooms for the start of each school year is a costly out-of-pocket expense many teachers face; this has not gone unnoticed by WITU Read more

Witu Disheartened By The Nonpayment Of The Vacation Allowance

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson minced no words by conveying, “I am profoundly saddened by the overall handling of the vacation allowance payment affecting subsidized school board employees.” He further expounded, “The precedence set by Government and the clear inequity it has caused is truly affecting the quality of education in our country,” Johnson said. On July 8, the WITU participated in a meeting with school boards and the Minister of Education, Drs Read more

Witu And School Boards Submit Letter To The Minister Of Education

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) and the various school boards of St. Maarten submitted their letter to the Minister of Education drs. Rudolph Samuel on Monday afternoon concerning paying the vacation allowance for subsidized school board employees.

Now more than ever is not the time to even consider making any budget cuts in Education, on the contrary investments need to be made. Imagine in these economically challenging times, you would think relief would be granted Read more

Witu Urges Minister Samuel To Reach Out To Regional Ministers Of Education

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — On Tuesday, April 26th, 2022 the President of the Windward Island Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson dispatched a letter to the Honorable Minister of Education drs. Rudolph Samuel.

Johnson in his letter stated, The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) notes and with great disquiet that the timetable for the sitting of the CSEC and CAPE examinations has been released Read more

Witu Starts Petition For Payment Of Vacation Allowance 2022

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson said, today is the day we put the rights of teaching and non-teaching staff back as a priority in St. Maarten.

The WITU President outlined the contents of the petition that has nine points of motivation and all WITU members are being called to sign it in solidarity.

The nine points of motivation in the petition are:

That the Liquidity of the Government of St Read more

Witu Makes History At Cba

Philipsburg — President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson recently met with the staff of the Charlotte Brookson Academy (CBA). Johnson was accompanied by WITU Treasurer Robert Rawlins and WITU Board Member Silvy Ravenberg.

“I’m proud of this historical moment by you joining WITU but I wish it was under more positive work conditions for you,,” Johnson stated Read more

Mlk Was Never A Priority Says Witu

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Stuart Johnson is calling for the full disclosure of the Health Inspectorate report and all previous reports made for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary School since the passage of Hurricane Irma.

“All reports especially the latest report must be made public regarding the ongoing situation at school as the school was never a priority,” says Johnson.

Truth be told, it was the WITU that alerted the Health Inspectorate about the situation at the school and did so formally via an e-mail correspondence, stated Johnson.

Johnson added, I must dispel the misconception as if I simply appeared on the campus as I was called by the staff members of WITU which I represent.”

Notable to mention for the record was that on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, an email correspondence was dispatched to the Health Inspectorate from the WITU.

If it wasnt for the attention being brought to this ongoing issue by the WITU the matter would have remained unresolved by the Ministry of ECYS Read more