Monday, March 17, 2025

Education

Participate Learning calls on Belizean educators to teach in the USA

Belizean educators interested in teaching preschool, elementary, and secondary education in the United States can do so through Participate Learning. This exchange program has been helping teachers worldwide experience the American education system since 1987. Currently, many Belizean teachers are teaching in American schools through this program.

The Island Academy to offer High School level education

This year, TIA is embarking on a new chapter by introducing its first form of high school, set to commence in August. This development is driven by a generous donation aimed at addressing the lack of resources for high school students in the area. Although the San Pedro High School is located on the island, many students commute to Belize City, highlighting the need for local educational facilities. The TIA high school will align its curriculum with existing standards while incorporating essential elements such as ethics and life skills.

Child Stimulation Month focuses on unlocking early potential in children

Every year, March is celebrated as Child Stimulation Month in Belize, a time dedicated to promoting the growth and development of preschool children through engaging and educational activities. The festivities began on March 3rd this year with a vibrant parade in San Pedro Town. The event brought together preschoolers, teachers, parents, and guardians from various institutions across the island, highlighting the importance of early childhood education.

Estelle Crawford from Caye Caulker wins the annual Spelling Bee Zone Competition

The annual Bowen and Bowen Spelling Bee Belize District Zone Eliminations once again featured a Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School student taking first place in the primary school competition. Estelle Crawford, a 10-year-old standard four student with autism, impressed organizers and judges, securing the top position on Thursday, February 20th. Naila Padilla from The Island Academy in San Pedro earned second place, while Jerome Sho from Holy Cross Anglican Primary School came in third.

Thousands of teachers protest for improved school management systems

On February 7, 2025, thousands of Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) members gathered in Belmopan to protest the Government of Belize's handling of their salaries and benefits. The protest was part of a broader campaign called "Value Teachers, We Matter," which aimed at highlighting systemic issues within the education system. Among the protesters were many teachers from San Pedro schools.

Job opportunity for Belizean teachers in the United States: Still Available in 2025

Teaching preschool, elementary, and secondary education in the United States is an attainable opportunity for belizean teachers. Through the Participate Learning program, educators can secure a legally backed employment contract to teach in American schools for up to five consecutive years.

Belize Chocolate Company Sweetens Education with $2,000 Art Supply Donation

The Belize Chocolate Company generously contributed to the local community on Tuesday, January 21st, by donating art supplies valued at over $2,000 to three primary schools in San Pedro Town. The supplies included paints, pencils, sketching pads, and various craft materials. This initiative is part of the company's ongoing commitment to support local education, which began with the launch of their ART Bar chocolate bar last year. The ART Bar features the work of talented Belizean artists, and a portion of each bar sold is allocated for purchasing art supplies for schools.

OAS establishes itself as a leading provider of Scholarships for Belizean Students

The Organization of American States (OAS) works in Belize in coordination with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology to fulfill the aim of transforming Belize to a more inclusive and sustainable country through Education. (#PlanBelize, Medium-Term Development Strategy, 2022 – 2026).

San Pedro teachers Pedro Garcia and Roberto Canche graduate with Master’s Degrees in Education Leadership

Pedro Garcia and his colleague, Roberto Canche, are dedicated teachers in San Pedro Town who have successfully earned a master’s degree in education leadership from the University of Texas Permian Basin. They are excited to share their accomplishment with their island community and are committed to using their new skills to continue guiding their students effectively.

Ten graduate from the San Pedro Institute of Culinary Education program

What began as a pilot project at Holy Cross Anglican Primary School in the San Mateo subdivision of San Pedro Town has successfully culminated in the graduation of ten students from the San Pedro Institute of Culinary Education (SPICE). Graduation celebrations were held on Friday, December 14, and Saturday, December 15. This successful fifteen-week culinary program, developed in collaboration with the primary school and Gaynor's School, provided participants with professional culinary techniques.

The advantages of teaching abroad with the assistance of Participate Learning

Since 1987, Participate Learning has been a leading cultural teacher exchange program, enhancing education by bringing teachers from around the globe to teach in the United States. Participants enroll in the program to learn about the U.S. education system, culture, and way of life. These teachers become cultural ambassadors for their home countries and, after a maximum of five years, return home to share their experiences and knowledge with their communities. Many educators from Belize have taken advantage of this opportunity. Anyone currently teaching and holding a bachelor’s degree in education can apply by visiting www.participatelearning.com.