On Friday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh commended the Camp Shriver student volunteers, staff, and participants on a successful 2010 summer season. The three-week camp is currently running in the St. Thomas-St. John District, based at Antilles High School, and provides sports and other team-building opportunities for youth with intellectual disabilities, ages 8-18. On St. Thomas, the camp is run by Jackie Nelthropp, Director, and Therese Hodge, Sports Coordinator.

Camp Shriver student volunteers, staff, and participants pose for a photo at the Antilles High School gymnasium on St. Thomas on July 16, 2010.

In 2007, First Lady de Jongh met with National Camp Shriver Creator and Founder of the Special Olympics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, to initiate bringing the camp to the Virgin Islands. Now in its fourth year in the territory, the sports camp program continues to provide recreational opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. Campers enjoy sports coaching in basketball, kickball, soft ball, soccer, swimming, and volleyball and participate in arts and crafts and cooking classes. The camp also organizes a weekly field trip.

“Camp Shriver evokes the spirit of the Special Olympics and its founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, a long-time disabilities advocate whose incredible vision of inclusiveness for people with intellectual disabilities will always be remembered. The camp brings Virgin Islands youth together in a learning, positive environment that develops camaraderie, teamwork, and sportsmanship. I am pleased at the continued interest in and success of the camp in both districts,” the First Lady said. 

De Jongh shares Shriver’s vision of creating opportunities for youth that challenge them to reach their highest physical limits; develop physical fitness; and experience the joys and friendship that come from attending a summer camp. 

Camp Shriver focuses on developing long-lasting, positive relationships by creating an atmosphere of understanding, learning, and sharing. Campers are partnered with a student volunteer and new friendships are developed and cultivated.

Camp Shriver is funded by Catholic Charities, which received funding through the generous donations of private entities, including: Cruzan Viril, Ltd.; Golden Eagle Financial, LLLP; Hovensa LLC; Financial Trust Company, Inc.; AH Riise; Active Concepts, Inc.; The West Indian Company, Ltd.; Scotiabank; International Capital & Management Company; Rix Ski’s; and Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands.

The camp began on July 6, runs through July 23, 2010 and is free.

The Virgin Islands Children and Families Council met last week to continue its work advancing Governor de Jongh’s agenda of improving the welfare of the territory’s children and families. The working meeting was an opportunity for department and agency heads, as well as community-based non-profit partners, to provide updates on a wide array of current projects of the Council, including efforts prioritizing education, security, health, and overall wellness for Virgin Islands residents. 

First Lady Cecile de Jongh and members of the Children and Families Council discuss agenda items at the Government House meeting on St. Thomas on July 15, 2010.

“Thursday’s meeting outlined the Council’s current initiatives, with a focus on providing leadership on the key issues facing the territory’s children and families. Together we continue to proactively address ways to assess community needs and safeguard our most precious resource, our children,” First Lady Cecile de Jongh said after the meeting. 

In June 2008, Governor de Jongh signed an Executive Order creating the Children and Families Council and tasked its appointed government and civic leaders to explore new ways of improving the delivery of services to families, bettering the health of the territory's children, and preparing them to succeed in school and in life. Since the Council’s formation, as led by Chairperson First Lady Cecile de Jongh, members have proposed novel ideas to fulfill the EO’s mandate “to study, plan, and recommend changes to improve the delivery of services to children and families.”

In referencing the Council’s efforts to uplift and assist the community, the First Lady also noted, “We are able to target, track, and train high-risk and other youth, providing additional safeguards and opportunities that simply didn’t exist before. I am delighted at the success of the collaborative efforts underway, and commend the Council’s stakeholders on its achievements and mandate in continuing to reach its goals.”

Council members provided updates on current, inter-agency initiatives, including: an anti-bullying program; youth gang prevention efforts; and graffiti removal from public locations, especially in the housing communities.

Regarding skills and employment training, the Council discussed the success of the Jobs for America’s Graduates and Youthnet programs, both initiatives that are identifying, mentoring, and educating Virgin Islands at-risk youth. 

With a strong focus on early learning and early childhood education and care, the Council continues to assess best practices to assist children’s social and educational development, particularly for ages 0-5. Council members discussed programs in place for tracking and data collection of childhood experiences prior to entering primary school; providing incentives and rewards for quality improvement in childcare through a star rating system for daycare centers (QRIS, the Quality Rating Improvement System); and surveying childcare staff to determine current training levels and training needs. 

Human Services Commissioner Christopher Finch also gave a summary on the expansion of the early Head Start program, which will double in size due to ARRA funding available.

Echoing the First Lady’s Healthy VI initiative, the Council, through the Department of Education and the University of the Virgin Islands, heard updates Thursday promoting the establishment of school gardens and school-based gardening classroom instruction to improve children’s eating habits by encouraging the consumption of fruits and vegetables. The initiative is focused on implementing health and wellness programs in the schools.

Thursday’s Council agenda also provided an opportunity to review the appropriation of existing grants and the submission of applications for new grants. Council members formalized plans to follow-up on the successes of a recent summit the governor convened to better involve the territory’s business leaders in promoting early childhood education. The summit, which was held in both districts, presented data proving the long-term benefits of private sector investment in childhood health and wellness programs. 

Family Connection Director Ellie Hirsh discussed the Council’s Early Childhood Advisory Committee’s (ECAC) Strategic Plan to assist all children in the Virgin Islands to thrive, grow, and learn through a coordinated system of supports and services. Hirsh also outlined a plan to promote the “Virtues Project,” an initiative focused on building peaceful and caring communities aligned to 52 virtues, one for each week of the year. The campaign teaches positive behaviors and attitudes and engages the community in discussion and awareness of the “virtue of the week” in schools, child care settings, home, and at the workplace.

As liaisons to the Council for the Leadership in Action Program (LAP), First Lady Cecile de Jongh and Education Commissioner Dr. LaVerne Terry updated members on the program’s progress, a results-based effort created to provide community organizations with hands-on training to build leadership and provide motivation. With the goal of preparing all children to be healthy and ready to succeed in school, De Jongh and Terry reviewed measures in progress, including efforts to support educational programs for stay at home parents to help their children succeed in school; and planning a Nurse Family Partnership Program to encourage maternal and childhood health.

The Council’s keen focus on at-risk and high-risk youth also spurred the Virgin Islands Housing Authority’s involvement in a youth development program, “My Brother’s Workshop” for ages 16-24. Based out of the St. Thomas Reformed Church, the initiative is a vocational and mentoring outreach program that focuses on male youth that have dropped out of school, who are marginally literate and live in poverty. Workshop participants share a desire to take steps to change their future. With this effort, the VIHA will contract with the faith-based, non-profit corporation to train VI youth in various skills, including carpentry, electronics, and other trades and pledges to secure employment opportunities for them.

Council members also used Thursday’s meeting to discuss potential legislation that affects the territory’s young children and families, and discussed future plans for a family conference to be held in mid-October in recognition of “Families Month.” 

Children and Families Council representatives include: First Lady Cecile de Jongh; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor Pamela Berkowsky; Attorney General Vincent F. Frazer, Esq.; Education Commissioner Dr. LaVerne Terry; Housing, Parks, and Recreation Commissioner St. Claire Williams; Police Commissioner Novelle E. Francis, Jr., also represented by Ray Martinez; Labor Commissioner Albert Bryan, Jr.; Health Commissioner Julia Sheen-Aaron, MPH; Human Services Commissioner Christopher Finch; UVI President Dr. David Hall, also represented by Chief of Staff Dr. Noreen Michael; Family Connection Director Ellie Hirsh; and Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands President Dee Baecher-Brown. Thursday’s meeting was also attended by additional members of the Governor’s Executive Staff.

The Children and Families Council seeks to identify community concerns and form collaborative partnerships between the government, private sector, and community organizations towards creating real and meaningful progress for Virgin Islands residents.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to participate in a special award and prize presentation ceremony on Sunday at the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral for the Blessing of the Flowers event on St. Thomas. The event simultaneously declared the opening of the Festival of Flowers, a first-time occasion for the Cathedral. The First Lady praised the various organizations and individuals who presented floral exhibits, showcasing their talents and artistic abilities.

His Excellency Herbert A. Bevard, Bishop, looks on as First Lady Cecile de Jongh presents the Second Prize Award for “Originality” to Ms. Carmen Grant, Member of the Catholic Daughters of America (Court 2049) at the Festival of Flowers at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral on Sunday, June 27, 2010 on St. Thomas.

“This event was a unique opportunity for Virgin Islanders to celebrate spirituality and nature’s beauty. Today’s exhibit featured a variety of flower arrangements, all expertly created, and it was a pleasure to join Bishop Herbert A. Bevard in recognizing the talents of all the participants,” the First Lady said. 

Parishioners and friends from the general community were treated to various floral exhibits at the Cathedral, as well as an afternoon of live music and prayer, including hymns, guest solo performances on violin and organ, and choir singing. 

Fr. Louis Kemayou, Rector, Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, St. John, delivers remarks at the Festival of Flowers at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral on Sunday, June 27, 2010 on St. Thomas. Sts. Peter and Paul Altar Servers received First Prize, “Most Decorated Floral Exhibit,” for the featured statue and flower arrangement. The statue was crafted in Germany during the 15th century and is 557 years old. It is located at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, St. John, USVI.

The First Lady presented awards in the categories of: Originality; Most Creative Exhibit; Best Decorated Exhibit; and Exhibit Relevant to the Theme. The overall winning arrangement received the Bishop’s Trophy and was presented by His Excellency Herbert A. Bevard, Bishop.

The Blessing of the Flowers is expected to be an annual event at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral symbolizing the strength and power of Virgin Islanders working together in harmony. This year’s special activity recognized the many outstanding talents and expertise of Virgin Islands residents, especially in flower arranging, and signifies the many ways that we can appreciate God’s beauty in all its forms.

Exhibitors at Sunday’s event included: Sts. Peter and Paul Decorating Committee and Altar Guild; Catholic Daughters of America (Court 2049) & Magnificat; Sts. Peter and Paul Altar Servers; Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral Choir; Sts. Peter and Paul Usher Ministry; Sts. Peter and Paul Lectors & Eucharistic Ministry; Sts. Peter and Paul Door Choir; St. Anne’s Chapel; Holy Family Parish Church; and Mount Carmel—St. John.

Florists included: All Occasions Flower Shop; Blooming Things Flower Shop; Forever Flowers; Roses Two; and Springette Flower Shop. 

First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to participate in special Mother’s Day activities Sunday at an event organized by the St. Thomas chapter of the Virgin Islands Hispanic Democratic Club in observance of Mother’s Day in the Dominican Republic, as celebrated on May 30. The event was held at the de Jongh/Francis campaign headquarters office on St. Thomas. Governor and First Lady de Jongh congratulated the Club, all mothers, as well as other guests for participating in this special, community-based event.

Governor and First Lady de Jongh and honorees Carmen Dennis, Rosa Delgado, and Iluminada Manzueta with members of the V.I. Hispanic Democratic Club at Dominican Republic Mother’s Day activities on May 30, 2010.

“Today is an important time for the community to unite in recognition of all that mothers do for us, every day. We are proud to recognize the contributions of Virgin Islands mothers in tribute to an important, Dominican Republic tradition and are especially pleased to celebrate this special day with Governor and First Lady de Jongh, a first couple with a strong sense of family and community spirit, ” Sophia D. Rosario, V.I. Hispanic Democratic Club spokesperson said.

Along with the First Lady, Cheryl Francis, wife of the Lieutenant Governor, was also honored at the Sunday ceremony, as well as honorees: Carmen Dennis, Rosa Delgado, and Iluminada Manzueta. All mothers present at the event received a personalized certificate of appreciation for their individual efforts and outstanding contributions to family and community. Governor de Jongh presented the certificates, along with members of the V.I. Hispanic Democratic Club. 

The First Lady received a plaque and special meritorious recognition for her support and dedication to the entire Hispanic community in her role as First Lady. The plaque was presented by the Hispanic Democratic Club and Dominican mothers. 

Also present at the event Sunday were Senators Louis Patrick Hill, Celestino White, and Patrick Simeon Sprauve.

The V.I. Hispanic Democratic Club is comprised of Spanish-speaking Virgin Islanders from throughout the Caribbean region and globally.

A large-scale, community-wide celebration was also held in the Dominican Republic Sunday to honor mothers and their many wondrous and important contributions to society.

Earlier today, the First Lady was pleased to bring welcome remarks to all participants of the 12th Annual Best Beginnings Early Childhood Conference at the UVI Sports and Fitness Center on St. Thomas. The two-day session featured workshops and other activities focused on techniques, strategies, and guidelines for parents, educators, childcare providers and Head Start staff on early education and learning. A companion two-day session was held in the St. Croix District on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week at the UVI Cafetorium. 

The Children and Families Council hosted Friday’s day-long presentations and break-out sessions; as Chairperson of the Council, the First Lady brought greetings on their behalf, saying:

“It’s wonderful to see so many of you here, as you are the ones on the front line, working with the children. Today we look forward to hearing your suggestions so that together we can employ the best methods during the critical early years and provide as many resources as possible towards ensuring that all children are healthy and ready to succeed in school.”

The First Lady noted the overarching mission of the Council to “treat the whole child, focused on ages 0-8, with particular focus on ages 0-5, in order to deliver services in the most effective way, for the benefit of all Virgin Islands children.”

During her remarks, the First Lady thanked the Virgin Islands Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UVICEDD) and the Departments of Education, Health, and Human Services—along with the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, Lutheran Social Services, and the Children and Families Council for their important joint sponsorship of the annual conference. 

“Our work together is more visible and is making a difference for children and families, Territory-wide, thanks to your efforts and support.”

Additional remarks were delivered by Human Services Commissioner Christopher Finch, Human Services Assistant Commissioner for the St. Thomas/St. John District Mychal Rhymer-Charles, Family Connection Director Ellie Hirsh, and Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands President Dee Baecher Brown.

The First Lady also thanked all conference participants “for their dedication and time in investing in our most important resource – our children.”

Earlier this week, the First Lady addressed Caribbean Police Commissioners at the 25th Annual Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police Conference (ACCP) on the link between Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and criminal behavior. She spoke of the need for police and all members of the community to be aware of the ages 0-5 as the most critical during a child’s early developmental years and highlighted the importance of investing in early childhood education in order to help decrease crime.

The First Lady hosted a discussion group yesterday where she and other guests spoke on the links between Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and criminal behavior. The session was part of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police conference currently taking place on St. Thomas.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh leads a discussion on the links between Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and criminal behavior on May 26, 2010.  The session was part of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police conference currently taking place on St. Thomas.

The First Lady spoke frankly about her own challenges as the mother of a child with ADHD, and her involvement with Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), a non-profit advocacy group.

“The aim of this presentation is to highlight the critical importance of identifying and treating ADHD as an essential step in reducing the repetition of criminal behavior, especially amongst youth. We know that there is widespread prevalence of ADHD in the juvenile justice system. In fact, the prevalence of ADHD in the juvenile justice system is at least three to four times the 7% rate seen in the general population, conservatively estimated at 25%. These numbers are of great concern for our community, and it is critical that we employ preventative measures to help reduce criminal behavior and encourage kids to thrive in school and in life,” the First Lady said.

During the presentation, the First Lady shared personal insight from her work as Chairperson of the Children and Families Council and National Board Member of CHADD. She also noted the importance of taking steps to fight crime by investing in children from an early age.

“Providing high quality, early education and care, for ages 0-8 is critical to ensuring that all Virgin Islands children have a strong foundation for their later years. We know that in the first few years of life, children’s intellect and emotions are developing, which includes their ability to have concern for others. Getting the right start in life is the best way to prevent violence and criminal behavior,” the First Lady de Jongh added.

Also sharing information was Verian Aguilar, School Psychologist, who explained to those in attendance the medical basis of the neurological disorder, its symptoms and means of diagnosis. 

Aguilar works with students who struggle with the disorder and is currently Director of the Lower School Resource Program at Antilles School. She is responsible for all counseling, as well as designing programs to support children’s learning difficulties. Aguilar is also on the Board of Trustees of H.Y.P.E. (Helping Young People Excel), a non-profit organization for local, at-risk youth and is an active member of NASP (National Association of School Psychologists) and CHADD.

Beth Marshall, Education Specialist, also presented during the session and discussed the links between Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and crime. 

Most recently, Marshall served as the Director of Professional Development at The Family Connection, a resource center for early childhood educators and parents founded by the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands. In 2008, she completed her doctoral studies at the University of Pennsylvania in the Mid/Career Educational Leadership program. Marshall has been an adjunct professor at the University of the Virgin Islands for the past 12 years, teaching courses in the Inclusive Early Childhood Education program. 

Also speaking at the session were law enforcement officials from Jamaica and the British Virgin Islands, who thanked presenters for the information.

ADHD is a mental health disorder that affects 1 in 20 worldwide. The cause of ADHD is unknown, but scientists classify it as a neurological disorder. Genetic links indicate that the disorder runs in families, and it is the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder in children and adolescents. Symptoms include: trouble paying attention; distractibility; hyperactivity; impulsive behavior; disorganization; and learning difficulties. ADHD persists into adulthood in 65%-86% of cases diagnosed in childhood and can be associated with numerous life impairments. Interestingly, the ADHD brain also has tremendous capacity for high levels of creativity, innovative thinking, insightfulness, and even some aspects of genius. 

The First Lady and other speakers conveyed their messages and stories to police officials because they felt it important to explain that ADHD, when undiagnosed, makes children more vulnerable to a life of crime. To compensate, public safety officials must improve collaboration between police, educators and health officials in working to diagnose and treat these children, and in so doing, combat crime.

The top law enforcement officials from 22 Caribbean nations are attending the ACCP conference on St. Thomas, where they are exchanging information, sharing ideas, and finding new ways to forge mutually beneficial partnerships.

In recognition of National Children’s Book Week, as observed for May 10-16, the First Lady was pleased to visit with second graders at Lockhart Elementary School on St. Thomas today for a Where the Wild Things Are movie day, a film based on the greatly celebrated book by author Maurice Sendak.

The school visit was part of an effort to raise awareness on literacy and the importance of reading, especially amongst youth. The First Lady read the book Where the Wild Things Are to the second grade class earlier this year. After the film screening on Friday, she led an interactive discussion with the students about the movie’s characters and themes; refreshments were served, including mixed fresh fruit, freshly baked cookies, and juice.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh helps serve fresh fruit to second grade students at Lockhart Elementary School on St. Thomas as part of the Where the Wild Things Are movie day.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh discusses the Where the Wild Things Are movie with second grade students at Lockhart Elementary School on Friday, May 14, 2010 on St. Thomas.

At the Where the Wild Things Are movie day, First Lady Cecile de Jongh receives a gift from Lockhart Elementary School Librarian Merle Vanterpool for her dedication to children and literacy efforts, Friday, May 14, 2010 on St. Thomas.

The First Lady is the Big Read Spokesperson for the Virgin Islands and is outspoken on the importance of reading everyday for personal enrichment, and to help further one’s education and future success.

“Reading allows enormous opportunities for personal growth and entertainment while expanding one’s imagination and creativity. Studies consistently show that reading with children is one of the most important things we can do as parents, as family members, and as educators to bring about their future academic and personal success. It’s critical that we work together as a community to ensure our children’s progress and self-fulfillment,” she said. 

In his 2007 State of the Territory Address, Governor de Jongh indicated the Administration’s strong focus on making sure that all Virgin Islands youth learn to read, including the announced goal for all fourth graders to read at grade level within five years. 

Joining the First Lady at the Lockhart Elementary School activity on Friday were School Librarian Merle Vanterpool, Second Grade Teacher Desiree Estrada Petersen, and Government House Executive Staff. The First Lady previously donated two copies of the Where the Wild Things Are book to the school; one for the second grade class and one for the school library.

The First Lady will continue visiting with schools throughout the Territory to encourage reading and literacy.

As part of the Healthy VI--School Gardens Project, the First Lady was pleased to donate large composters to all St. Thomas public elementary schools this week. As part of her vision to increase health and wellness for all Virgin Islands residents, and with the need for conservation efforts more in focus, the First Lady developed a specialized program designed to assist elementary school children with composting, recycling, and gardening initiatives. 

During the event, the First Lady said:

“As a community we are focusing more and more on conservation efforts, especially given these tough economic times. Toward that end, in 2009 I launched the Healthy VI—School Gardens Project to talk to children about how to live healthier lives by taking an active role in their own daily food choices. With the donation of these composters, the hope is that as many students as possible are able to participate in a school gardening club and learn the basics of general gardening and nutrition, even entrepreneurship of harvested fruits and vegetables."

First Lady Cecile de Jongh visits with Students from the Ulla Muller School Gardening Club to donate a composter for the school’s garden.

A composter is a specialized gardening tool used to recycle natural food waste and create nutrient-rich soil as a fertilizer. Decayed or decaying organic matter is created by gathering plant material, such as leaves, grass, clippings, as well as fruit and vegetable peels into a pile or bin and letting it naturally decompose. The end result is what agriculturalists and farmers call “the gold” of soils: high quality soil for optimum gardening of fruits and vegetables.

Funds are being raised throughout the year so that additional compost bins may be donated to the St. Croix public elementary schools. “We are starting with the elementary schools and hope to work with other grade levels in the near future, Territory-wide.” 

The First Lady has been outspoken on the importance of maintaining good health and teaching children starting from an early age about its many benefits:

  “In light of the fact that there are an increasing number of Virgin Islands youth developing diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, as well as other chronic illnesses, it is critically important that we talk about some of the proven ways to decrease the onset of these diseases through proper diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits. Eating natural foods and learning more about gardening your own fruits and vegetables are important steps that the younger generation can take to be healthier and lead a positive lifestyle."

In cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, UVI, and Fintrac, Inc., the First Lady also placed composters at all three Government House locations so that employees may compost and recycle natural food waste.

First Lady thanked First Bank and MSI Sea Chest for their generous donations that enabled this important part of the Healthy VI—School Gardens Project to be possible. “I am grateful for their partnership and challenge other Virgin Islands businesses to match their contributions towards eventually establishing school gardens at each school, Territory-wide,” she said.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to attend the Third Annual Conference on Autism at the UVI Administration and Conference Center, St. Thomas on Monday. The conference was held on "V.I. Autism Awareness Day," as proclaimed by Governor de Jongh. 

First Lady Cecile de Jongh shares a personal note while at the Third Annual Conference on Autism at the UVI, St. Thomas campus on April 19, 2010.

Joining the First Lady at the conference were Dr. LaVerne Terry, Commissioner of the Department of Education; Stephanie Barnes, V.I. Territorial ADA Coordinator and President/Founder of the Virgin Islands Autism Network; Dr. Yegin Habtes, Executive Director for the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities; Dr. Noreen Michael, Chief of Staff and representing Dr. David Hall, President, University of the Virgin Islands; Dr. Brenda Smith Myles, Comprehensive Autism Planning System; Mr. Thomas Caffery, M.Ed., BCBA; and Dr. Sheila Smith. 

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First Lady Cecile de Jongh visited the Evelyn M. Williams Elementary School on St. Croix today to participate in the school’s “Day of Reading” program. She visited 4th and 5th grade classes, joining citizens from the public and private sectors in reading to students. She highlighted the importance of reading every day and donated books to students for their own personal libraries. As a passionate advocate for literacy, The First Lady encourages reading at all age levels, especially amongst youth, as part of a daily routine for education and entertainment.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh reads to Children at Community Methodist Complex Head Start on St. Croix on April 13, 2010

As the Big Read Spokesperson, an initiative of the V.I. Council on the Arts, the First Lady expressed her appreciation to spend time reading with the children during the Week of the Young Child, as proclaimed by Governor de Jongh for the week of April 11-17. The proclamation designates this week as a special time to celebrate the young children in our community and highlight the value of quality early education programs while building towards our children’s future success. 

Speaking at the event, the First Lady said:

“It’s important for us as parents, teachers, and community members to encourage the benefits of reading, especially amongst youth. Studies conclusively indicate that reading promotes better language development and substantially broadens opportunities for a child’s future success and self-fulfillment. While reading is unfortunately declining among all groups, the steepest decline is being felt at the youngest age levels. That’s one of the best reasons we have to engage young children as much as possible to read at home and in the classroom for enjoyment and personal enrichment. Reading is the perfect way to get children excited about books, literacy efforts, and education,” the First Lady said.

Joining the First Lady at the Evelyn M. Williams Elementary School today were School Principal Dr. Anastasie Jackson, 4th grade teacher Carol Carty, and 5th grade teacher Jonell Johnson. First Lady de Jongh donated copies of Judy Blume’s Double Fudge and Suzanne Collins’ Gregor the Overlander to each child in the 4th and 5th grade classes, respectively.

The First Lady also visited the Community Methodist Complex Head Start facility on St. Croix this afternoon to read the greatly celebrated book, Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak to the children.

She will visit other schools to read with students on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John throughout the year.

In observance of Women’s History Month, First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to host the “You Go Girl” Day of Empowerment for young Virgin Islands ladies Friday at Government House, St. Croix. The day-long series of workshops, panel discussions, and exercises was created to provide Virgin Islands female students, ages 11-18, from the big island’s public, private, and parochial middle and high schools with unique opportunities to receive mentorship and other training while learning lessons on leadership, empowerment, and etiquette. 

Jointly organized by Alicia Barnes, Assistant CEO of the Economic Development Authority and District Chair of the St. Croix District Committee of the Democratic Party and Sonia Boyce, Executive Assistant to the Lieutenant Governor and President of the New Horizon Women’s Democratic Club of St. Croix, the special event brought community leaders together for an inspirational tribute to women and girls.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh speaks to students participants in the "You Go Girl" Day of Empowerment on March 19, 2010 at Government House, St. Croix.

In her opening remarks, the First Lady set the tone for the day’s sessions:

 “Today is all about you. We want to help you overcome some of the unique challenges facing young ladies to help you reach your goals, secure happiness and find self-fulfillment. While we can’t do that in one day, we are starting here. As mentors, we hope to empower you by providing opportunities to celebrate your strengths and talents while utilizing a comfortable forum for personal growth and learning.”

The First Lady was joined by nationally recognized strategist and diversity expert René A. Redwood, CEO of Redwood Enterprises, LLC of Washington, DC. As the featured guest, Redwood facilitated the day-long event with active, participatory discussions on leadership, etiquette, confidence-building, and personal success. With a wealth of experience as a business owner and political leader at the national level, Redwood’s dynamic approach to empowerment actively engaged the students in skills training and seasoned guidance. She spoke of the “unconditional positive regard” needed to acquire leadership and personal success, and highlighted the paramount importance of having and maintaining respect for one’s peers. 

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Yesterday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh, as Chairperson of the Children and Families Council, commended all participants of the Leadership in Action Program on its fifth two-day session as recently held at the Arthur Abel Complex in Frederiksted, St. Croix. The session was an opportunity for LAP members to discuss next steps in the 14-month program to prioritize children’s health and education issues with the goal of ensuring that “all children in the USVI are healthy and prepared to succeed in school.”

“Through the Leadership in Action Program and its various leaders from throughout the territory, we are developing strategies and action plans to target the many complex issues associated with children’s success levels. As part of that approach, the LAP is identifying long-standing challenges and providing training in the methodologies that provide the greatest chances for success, especially towards increasing children’s reading proficiencies,” the First Lady said.

The LAP coordinates leadership from public, private, and non-profit sectors to ensure school readiness for all Virgin Islands children, especially those ages 0-8. “Lappers” include educators, early childhood development specialists, therapists, pastors, domestic violence counselors, business leaders, health professionals, and non-profit groups. LAP also includes the Departments of Education, Labor, Human Services, Health, as well as the hospitals, EDC companies, and non-profit organizations. 

The effort, as launched by the Children and Families Council, is supported by a grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the University of Maryland’s James MacGregor Burns Academy of Leadership, and the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands and was created to assist families, schools, and the entire community in preparing children to succeed in school, including the Administration’s goal of preparing all fourth graders to read at grade level. 

During the meeting, representatives of the LAP heard a presentation from Sarah F. Mahurt, Ph.D., Deputy Commissioner for Curriculum and Instruction at the Virgin Islands Department of Education. She provided an overview of the current intervention programs currently utilized in V.I. schools. A presentation was also given by Marla Matthew, esteemed St. Croix educator and former principal of Ricardo Richards Elementary School. Ms. Matthew provided an update on the commitment of educators to the LAP goals, and noted the increased innovation, creativity and energy experienced throughout the school in support of the LAP mission.

Projects in discussion and underway for VI LAP include: childcare training for stay at home and disabled parents; basic knowledge in nutrition and education; a school-based gardening program; increasing the number of children receiving meals from the federal meals program; helping low income parents develop and retain assets; financial literacy training; earning a GED; and job retension tips and strategies. 

Speaking about ongoing LAP projects, the First Lady said:

“The various strategies and activities supported by the LAP are providing new and updated models for children’s success in the classrooms and in the home. In cooperation with the public, private, and non-profit sectors, these efforts are creating additional foundations of support for children and families territory-wide. We look forward to the upcoming community-based trainings on all three islands as we continue to close the gap on the territory’s learning disparities."

The Leadership in Action Program began in August 2009 and runs through August 2010, with meetings held every 4-6 weeks in alternating districts. The next meeting is scheduled for April on St. Thomas.

To learn more about the Leadership in Action Program, visit www.usvilap.org.

Earlier this week, Governor and First Lady de Jongh were pleased to host student award ceremonies for the Healthy VI school video contest in both districts this week. The ceremonies highlighted the final results of a community-wide, online vote at the Ourstage.com web site for best videos on a healthy living theme. Over 35,000 votes were cast territory-wide to determine the first and second place winners for all V.I. public, private, and parochial schools. Ceremonies took place at Government House on St. Thomas and St. Croix on Tuesday, and Wednesday respectively.

Speaking at the ceremony on St. Thomas, the First Lady said:

“The Governor and I are incredibly proud of all the students who participated in the Healthy VI contest and congratulate the first and second place winners for placing so highly in the competition. One of the goals of the contest was to share the students’ perspective on healthy living with the broader community, whether they chose to focus on stopping violence, eating healthy, or staying away from drugs and alcohol. We applaud their initiative, and look forward to providing additional opportunities that highlight the skills and talents of Virgin Islands youth while ensuring a direct, educational benefit."

First place teams were awarded $750 to each student team member and $1,250 to the school. Second place teams were awarded $375 to each student team member and $625 to the school. Four schools were honored in total.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh presents a check to students and teachers from Bertha C. Boschulte High School as part of award ceremonies for the Healthy VI school video contest on February 9, 2009 at Government House, St. Thomas.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh presents a check to students and teachers from St. Croix Central High School as part of award ceremonies for the Healthy VI school video contest on February 10, 2009 at Government House, St. Croix.

The Governor and First Lady applaud the efforts of the following students:

For St. Croix Central High School (First Place, Public Schools): Ikedo Forbes, Kai Moolenaar, Kevin Moolenaar, Pedro Montes, and Shaquille Thomas. Special thanks are also extended to Principal Chermaine Hobson-Johnson. 

For Bertha C. Boschulte High School (Second Place, Public Schools): Aadillah George, Jamarie Ayala, Krystina Joseph, Keyan Francis, and Ro’Niqua Henley. Special thanks are extended to Principal Carver Farrow. 

For St. Joseph’s Catholic High School (First Place, Private/Parochial Schools): Enrique Arroyo and Verna Corbin. Special thanks are extended to Principal Debra Skalkos.

For Kingshill High School (Second Place, Private/Parochial Schools): Abigail Vidale and Dale Donowa. Special thanks are extended to Principal Janie Koopmans. 

The First Lady thanked the sponsors who generously donated funds towards the cash award prizes for the students and schools: First Bank, Cartier, and Hublot and noted the importance of educating children about healthy living, especially against chronic disease, including diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and other serious, life-threatening conditions.

She added:

“We are learning that children as young as 10 years of age are developing these crippling chronic diseases, often times as a result of poor diet, inadequate exercise, and unhealthy lifestyles. It’s important that we create opportunities to help children and families make better food choices, as well as encourage exercising, and balancing a healthier lifestyle overall.”

Referencing her personal motivation to start the Healthy VI initiative in the Virgin Islands, the First Lady also spoke of the critical and urgent need to act now in order to provide a benchmark of health and wellness for the next generation. 

“We are experiencing a healthcare crisis in the Virgin Islands and nationwide, particularly with obesity, and healthy living must start to be more of a priority for all of us. It is especially important that we educate children about good health so that they may lead long and fulfilling lives and so that they pass along these lessons for future generations.”

The First Lady visited Lockhart Elementary School on St. Thomas yesterday to read the greatly celebrated book, “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak to second graders. The school visit was part of an effort to raise awareness on literacy and the importance of reading throughout the territory, especially amongst youth. 

As the Big Read Spokesperson, an initiative of the V.I. Council on the Arts, the First Lady was delighted to visit with Lockhart’s second graders and expressed her appreciation to spend time reading with the children.

First Lady Cecile de Jongh reads "Where the Wild Things Are" to second graders at Lockhart Elementary School on February 8, 2010.

“Reading with young children is the perfect way to get them engaged and excited about books, literacy efforts, and education. Unfortunately reading is declining among all age groups, with the steepest decline being felt at the youngest age levels. Taking time to read with children is one of the most important things that we can do as parents, as family members, and as a community to combat this growing trend and work together towards ensuring our children’s future success, progress, and self-fulfillment."

In his 2007 State of the Territory Address, Governor de Jongh indicated the Administration’s strong focus on making sure that all Virgin Islands youth learn to read, including the announced goal for all fourth graders to read at grade level within five years.

 “This is the single most important step that we can take for our children, and for the future of our community. This charge continues to be carried out by the territory’s superintendents, principals, and teachers and is a central organizational and investment goal for our education system.”

Joining the First Lady at Lockhart Elementary were School Librarian Merle Vanterpoole, Second Grade Teacher Desiree Gumbs, and Government House Executive Staff. The First Lady donated two copies of “Where the Wild Things Are” to the school; one for the second grade class and one for the school library.

The First Lady will visit other schools to read with students on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John throughout the year.

As part of the Administration’s ongoing efforts to address the many socio-economic issues plaguing the territory’s children and families, First Lady Cecile de Jongh chaired the year’s first meeting of the Children and Families Council at Government House, St. Thomas today. This was the Council’s fifth quarterly meeting and was an opportunity for members to strategize on both short and long-term goals, with particular focus on early education initiatives, as well as poverty reduction and youth gang prevention efforts. 

As Chairperson of the Council, the First Lady spoke of the ongoing mission to protect the welfare of all Virgin Islands children and families, noting the critical need to empower residents by improving the delivery of essential services:

“Through the ongoing work of the Council, we are addressing many socio-economic issues, including teen pregnancy, truancy, graduation rates, and youth violence and we are giving a voice to our territory’s children as we continue to take steps to ensure their school readiness and future success.”

The creation of the various initiatives under the Council seek to identify community concerns and form a collaborative partnership between the government, private sector, and community organizations in order to help resolve issues facing children and families, territory-wide. This mandate follows Section 2 of Executive Order No. 440-2008 “to study, plan, and recommend changes to improve the delivery of services to children and families.”

During the Council meeting, members heard from Ellie Hirsh, Director of the Family Connection, who provided an overview of the Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC). Council members also discussed the Leadership in Action Program (LAP), with a particular focus on the need to ensure access to needed resources and treatment plans, especially for those in poverty and amongst youth. Additional presentations were delivered by Lavelle Campbell, School Safety Manager for the St. Thomas/St. John District and Sgt. Winsbut McFarlande of the Virgin Islands Police Department on youth violence and youth gang prevention initiatives in the Territory. The material was presented as part of the Virgin Islands Police Department’s territory-wide focus on these issues and in order to gather recommendations from Council members.

Additionally, Human Services Commissioner Chris Finch led a discussion regarding a plan to host a summit for business leaders in both districts later this year, an effort that would promote the benefits of direct, private sector investment in early education and care initiatives on behalf of the Council.

At the meeting, the First Lady pointed to the importance of graduating students who are self-sufficient and able to compete in the global workforce.

 “The Council’s efforts are targeted to help improve the standard and quality of life for all Virgin Islanders, especially those in poverty, or amongst youth. Together, we are taking important steps to create a positive environment for students while helping families guide their children toward a future of their own choosing and for a life of self-fulfillment. I look forward to continuing to work together as we invest in the health, education, safety, and overall livelihood of all of our residents."

Along with First Lady Cecile de Jongh, Council members present at the meeting included: Attorney General Vincent F. Frazer; Monica Carbon also representing the Department of Justice; Housing, Parks & Recreation Commissioner St. Claire Williams; Sgt. Winsbut McFarlande representing Police Commissioner Novelle E. Francis, Jr. of the V.I.P.D.; Health Commissioner Julia Sheen, Human Services Commissioner Chris Finch, Family Connection Director Ellie Hirsh, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands President Dee Baecher-Brown, St. Croix Foundation Chief Operating Officer Deanna J. James, Father Sampson of Nazareth Lutheran Church, and Government House Executive Staff. Additional Council members include: Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor Pamela Berkowsky and Education Commissioner Dr. LaVerne Terry.

The creation of the Children and Families Council fulfills a promise made in Governor de Jongh’s 2008 State of the Territory Address to develop a holistic approach to supporting children and improving their school readiness and early learning. This new approach is supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the National Governors Association. The Council is examining the effects of poverty, gang violence, and other socio-economic issues that affect children and families.

The Children and Families Council previously met in August and November of 2008, as well as May and September of 2009. This is the first meeting of the Council for 2010. The next meeting will be held in April of this year.