Minister in the Ministry of Education with responsibility for Special Schools, Danny Butcher, has completed visits to all five Special Education Institutions across Saint Lucia, underscoring the need for a dedicated department within the Ministry to address the unique needs of students and educators in the sector.
During his engagements, Butcher expressed appreciation for the commitment of teachers and staff working within special education, often under challenging circumstances.
“First of all, I want to thank all the teachers, all the educators who are working at our special ed institutions,” he said.
“They are doing an excellent job, and some of them are doing a very, very good job underneath very tough conditions, and we really appreciate you and appreciate what you’re doing.”
The minister noted that the visits provided him with a deeper understanding of why special education requires focused oversight at the national level.
“I have a better appreciation of why the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers in Saint Lucia would want to have a special ministry designated for special education in Saint Lucia,” Butcher stated.
He emphasised that teacher preparation must be a central priority if the sector is to advance.
“We have to look at the training of our teachers, ensuring that our teachers are not only educated in general education but also in special education,” he explained.
Butcher also highlighted the need to review and improve the physical and organisational structures under which students receive instruction.
“We also have to look at the various structures under which our children receive instruction. Some of those structures must change,” he said, noting that several facilities are in urgent need of improvement. “I know some of our schools, they deserve a brand new school.”
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the minister said the administration remains focused on improving learning environments for all students.
“The Government of Saint Lucia is really dedicated in giving our children the best conditions under which instruction must be given,” Butcher concluded.