DLP statement on ongoing challenges at Lester Vaughan School

The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has expressed its deep concern about statements made by Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Bradshaw-Archer regarding the Ministry of Education’s awareness of the health issues affecting students at the Lester Vaughan School.

Felicia Dujon, DLP Shadow Minister for Education, said the revelation that the Ministry of Education was unaware of students falling ill until it was reported in the media last week is unacceptable.

Below is the full statement issued by Dujon:

In response to recent developments regarding the Lester Vaughan School’s ongoing challenges and the Ministry of Education’s handling of the situation, I, Felicia Dujon, Shadow Minister for Education, issue the following statement:

I am deeply concerned by the statements made by Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Bradshaw-Archer regarding the Ministry of Education’s awareness of the health issues affecting students at the Lester Vaughan School. It is alarming that despite ongoing environmental concerns and significant financial investment, the problems persist, endangering the health and well-being of our students and educators.

The revelation that the Ministry of Education was unaware of students falling ill until it was reported in the media last week is unacceptable. It underscores a lack of proactive communication and transparency from the Ministry, raising serious questions about its ability to effectively address the challenges facing our education system.

Furthermore, the expenditure of $2 million since 2018 on remedial work at the Lester Vaughan School without satisfactory resolution is deeply troubling. Parents rightfully demand accountability and answers regarding the allocation of these funds and the efficacy of the measures taken to address the environmental issues plaguing the school.

It is imperative that the Ministry of Education takes immediate and decisive action to address the concerns raised by parents, teachers, and students of the Lester Vaughan School. This includes conducting thorough air quality assessments, implementing appropriate remedial measures, and ensuring open and transparent communication with all stakeholders.

As Shadow Minister for Education, I call on the Ministry to prioritize the health and safety of our students and educators and to provide timely updates on the steps being taken to address the ongoing challenges at the Lester Vaughan School. Our children deserve nothing less than a safe and conducive learning environment, and it is incumbent upon the Ministry to deliver on this fundamental obligation.

I stand in solidarity with the parents, teachers, and students of the Lester Vaughan School in their pursuit of answers and solutions, and I will continue to advocate for the resources and support needed to ensure the well-being and success of all students in our education system.