The Bermuda Center for Creative Learning Foundation has appointed Tricia Lines Hill to its board of directors.
A spokesperson said, “With deep Bermuda roots and a passion for supporting education and community development, Mrs. Lines Hill brings a wealth of knowledge in global marketing, corporate communications and business development.
“Mrs. Lines Hill has a BA in History and International Development and a Master’s degree in International Business, as well as over 30 years of experience in international markets.
“She currently serves as an advisor for First Atlantic Commerce, a leading global payments solutions provider specializing in the Caribbean and Central America. Prior to this, he held the role of Senior Vice President, Marketing and Business Development at the company. In addition to his work with First Atlantic Commerce, he is also a director at Masters Limited, Bermuda.
“We are pleased to welcome Tricia to our board,” said Lisa Smart, BCCLF Patron. “His extensive experience in international business and his dedication to the community of Bermuda will be invaluable as we continue to expand and grow the Foundation’s impact on education and creative learning.”
Mrs. Lines Hill expressed her excitement to join the Board of the Foundation, saying, “I am honored to join the Bermuda Center for Creative Learning Foundation and look forward to empowering young minds through innovative and supportive learning environments. Look forward to contributing to its mission to create.”
The spokesperson said, “The mission of the BCCL Foundation is to raise funds to support the educational goals and mission of BCCL and to provide scholarships for those who require a special educational environment. With the appointment of Mrs. Lines Hill, the BCCLF Board of Directors reaffirms its commitment to advancing creative learning opportunities and fostering an inclusive educational environment in Bermuda.
But Cedarbridge AcademySome students shine not only in academics but also in practical, practical areas. Terry Charlemagne, a dedicated student with a passion for mechanics, is one of them. From turbocharged car projects to mastering vehicle handling, Terry has developed a unique skill set that sets him apart from his peers.
an initial spark of interest
Terry’s fascination with mechanics began at just seven years old, when his uncle introduced him to the world of performance vehicles with his Mazda RX-7. “I became interested in mechanics at a young age, when my uncle would ask me to do little things that needed doing on his car,” recalls Terry. This initial exposure sparked a passion that has only intensified over the years.
For Terry, the joy of mechanics comes from the learning experience. “Every time you get your hands on an engine, a machine or a component, you learn something new,” he shares. His enthusiasm for uncovering the complexities of mechanical systems leads him to accept new challenges with every project. Inspires to.
Building skills and tackling projects
Throughout his studies, Terry has acquired a wide variety of technical skills, from understanding vehicle mechanics to operating forklifts and both manual and automated vehicles. His practical experience has also highlighted the importance of teamwork. “Being a team player is essential,” admits Terry, understanding that collaboration is key to achieving complex mechanical objectives.
One project that stands out to him is Bermuda’s first turbocharged performance car. Terry and his teachers transformed a 2006 Daihatsu Sirion into a sports rally car, reworking everything from its engine system to its exterior design. “This project was particularly special because it allowed me to apply my skills to create something truly unique.”
facing and overcoming challenges
Like many students venturing into new technical fields, Terry has faced his share of challenges. The hardest? Welding. “Joining materials together requires specific techniques and knowledge,” he explains. However, with the support of his teachers, Terry mastered the intricacies of welding through hands-on practice and guidance. Took. “He shared all his knowledge with me, and I improved with practice.”
a vision for the future
Looking ahead, Terry is focused on pursuing a career in automotive engineering. “I have a deep passion for designing, building, and modifying cars,” he explains enthusiastically. One of his goals for the coming year is to build another turbocharged performance vehicle and share his knowledge with his classmates. This will help them feel the same thrill that they experience in the garage.
Support from CedarBridge Academy
Terry’s journey has been supported at every turn by her school community. From his instructors, Mr. Lindsay and Mr. Clark, to Maker Space teacher Mr. Lowe, the maintenance department, and Principal Kenneth Caesar, Terry has a dedicated team cheering him on.
In addition to the support around her, Terry has made the best use of limited resources by taking advantage of both personal and school tools. Despite some limitations, his creativity and determination have enabled him to succeed.
Advice for Aspiring Mechanics
For students who are interested in mechanics, Terry has some straightforward advice, “Build relationships with your teachers and demonstrate your genuine interest. They will provide you opportunities to showcase your talent. He emphasizes the importance of balancing mechanics with academics and other activities, mentioning that he often uses his free time after school or on the weekends to focus on his projects.
Terry Charlemagne’s journey demonstrates how passion, determination and community support can empower students to achieve extraordinary goals. As he continues to refine his skills and impart his knowledge to others, CedarBridge Academy can be proud to have Terry as one of their own – a future automotive engineer.
Bermuda College Library is set to host a Movie Night on Thursday, November 21 at 6.00pm featuring a screening of Bob Marley: One Love, followed by a discussion on peace hosted by Kareem Crary.
Trailer for Bob Marley: One Love
The event is in line with the Library’s annual theme, Promoting a Culture of Peace, inspired by the United Nations International Day of Peace. During the 2024–2025 school year, Bermuda College plans to host a number of events focused on this theme, with the goal of “promoting a peaceful mindset within the campus and the broader island community.”
In addition to the film and discussion, attendees can enjoy light refreshments and have a chance to win prizes in the event raffle. Admission is free, but attendees are asked to RSVP to spencer@college.bm to reserve a spot.
The Department of Education announced that online registration for the Bermuda Public School System’s 2025/2026 school year will open on Monday, November 18.
“Online registration for the 2025/2026 school year of the Bermuda Public School System will begin on Monday, November 18, 2024, and close on Friday, November 22, 2024,” a government spokesperson said, the Department of Education announced today.
“Open Houses will take place on November 12, 13 and 14 as follows:
open house dates
Tuesday, November 12, 2024 – Eastern Region Schools
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 – Central Region Schools
Thursday, November 14, 2024 – Western Region Schools
“Parents and guardians are reminded of the following general requirements for students registering at BPSS:
Online Registration Application Completed
Parental Verification 1 Residential Address – Must be in the name of the parent
i.e. utility bill [BELCO]/lease/bank details/internet [Cell phone bill is not accepted as proof of residence]
proof of guardianship
If the applicant is being registered by a non-guardian
Proof of diagnosis if the child is identified as having a special need
“Applications received after Friday, November 22 will be considered late and will be processed after all registration forms have been processed on time.
“For terms and additional information, see www.moed.bmEmail registration@moed.bm or call 278-3307 with any questions.
The Early Childhood Foundation of Bermuda is hosting a “Celebrating Early Childhood” event at Cedarbridge Academy on November 10.
A spokesperson said, “The Early Childhood Foundation of Bermuda is hosting a celebratory event focusing on early childhood education. Celebrating Early Childhood event will be held on Sunday 10 November 2024 from 2pm to 6pm in the Kalmar Richards Conference Room, Cedarbridge Academy, Devonshire. The event was rescheduled from September 8, 2024.
The theme “How do we reimagine early childhood” will include the following:
History of Early Childhood Education in Bermuda – Gwendoline Crary
Key Messages from Early Childhood – Dr. Julie Dunstan
Launch of Penny Saltus – Early Childhood Foundation of Bermuda
Celebrating contributors to early childhood in Bermuda
“Healthy relationships start in childhood. The day care provider/day care center staff and parents are the first line of defense for healthy relationships. The Zero to Three 2022 Healthy Steps program states, “Child well-being is dependent on the well-being of the caregiver. It is an evidence-based model that provides dyadic services in the pediatric primary care setting. Dyadic services in pediatrics can play an important role in behavioral health promotion, prevention, and early intervention for young children and their families. “Partnering with families to support their well-being, rather than waiting for problems to arise or worsen, can make a difference in the development of young children.”
“This event is designed for daycare providers, daycare centers and staff, preschool teachers, parents and community members committed to raising Bermuda’s next generation. Tickets for the event are $60, which includes refreshments immediately following.
“Come and join us for an exciting afternoon of information, inspiration and fellowship for the early childhood field. Tickets are available for purchase by direct deposit to account #200604120630011 in the name of the Early Childhood Foundation of Bermuda or by emailing ecfbda@gmail.com.
led by Remembrance DayHundreds of young Bermudians are gaining a deeper appreciation of Bermuda’s historical role through engaging presentations from the Royal Bermuda Regiment.
A spokesperson said, “A group of officers and soldiers have been visiting primary schools for the last two weeks ahead of November 11.
“Engaging and lively sessions are designed to help children – and sometimes staff – gain a greater understanding of the history of the regiment, along with the roles played by Bermudians during the World Wars.
“These presentations are part of a broader effort to engage the community with the regiment’s history and mission.”
Corporal Jolyza Vanderpool explains: “The Commanding Officer intends to have greater community engagement across the island and wanted to start in primary schools by Remembrance Day.
“The presentation provides key aspects of Remembrance Day, including where the Regiment came from and where we are now.
“With children, because their minds are so fresh, it’s easier for them to retain information.”
“As well as covering the origins of the conflicts and the symbolism of the poppy, the tours allow students to learn about the music played by the regiment’s Band and Corps of Drums,” the spokesperson said.
“The lessons come alive when RBR musicians perform under the direction of Band Officer Lieutenant Sheldon Fox and students get a chance to test their marching skills with the instruction of Lieutenant Leanne Tucker.
“Cindy Weeks, acting principal of Harrington Sound Primary School, where the regiment group gave a presentation this week, described the visit as ‘wonderful’.”
She said: “From the explanation about the band, to the instruments, to talking about the history of Remembrance Day, to talking about the poppy – I was stunned.
“Then the engagement with the students, where they could participate and put all these things into play – the students loved it, the staff really enjoyed it.”
The spokesperson said, “Ms Weeks believes the presentation allowed older students to broaden their knowledge, while it provided younger pupils with ‘essential exposure’ to some talking points.”
He added, “Now, when they see someone in uniform or in a parade, it means something.”
The spokesperson said, “Through these presentations, the Royal Bermuda Regiment aims to ensure that future generations not only understand Bermuda’s contribution to global peace but also pass on the spirit of remembrance.
“The soldiers of the regiment, including their bands, will join others on Front Street on Monday, November 11 to observe Remembrance Day and honor those who have gone before them.
“Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate in advance of the traditional parade, which will begin at 10:30 a.m.
“The Royal Bermuda Regiment will also march into downtown Hamilton to call for Parliament on Friday this week.”
Students from Somerset Primary School recently hosted an international dinner for students and parents, where students highlighted the culture and cuisine of countries including Japan, Mexico, India and Bermuda.
The event offered a variety of cuisine to attendees, celebrating diversity within the school community. In honor of Diwali, PTA also organized a miniature land fireworks display adding to the festive atmosphere and cultural celebration of the evening.
It is quite clear that Bermudians would like to see change in our education system. The point is not whether Bermuda needs education reform, it is what it looks like.
One Bermuda Alliance wants all students to receive a world-class education that will enable them to use their talents to keep Bermuda internationally competitive in business, sports, the arts, trade and other professional skills. We must foster innovation and reject stagnation.
We want teachers to hold a prestigious position in our society because of the impact they have on our next generation. We want parents who are engaged and feel heard when it comes to their children’s best interests.
The current government’s reform has been hampered by objections from several parent groups and teachers, as well as official votes of no confidence in the education leadership, several calls from the community for the minister’s resignation, and controversial school closures. However, our youth have won and this should be celebrated. We can acknowledge that we have issues that need to be fixed without impacting the entire public education system.
The current Education Minister takes responsibility for his reform plan, but he is not responsible for all the problems that exist in our public education system. Successive governments during their tenure implemented policies that they believed were right, resulting in the problems we have today. The education of our children is not the fault of any one person but is the responsibility of all of us.
One Bermuda Alliance believes that education should be a collective effort with an emphasis on accountability. Politicians should focus on policy to provide budget, equipment, and economic direction to teachers while maintaining our school facilities. This helps ensure we produce the workforce needed to move Bermuda forward and promote a healthy society.
We desire the implementation of an independent education authority that provides a national curriculum for all students, regardless of learning type and abilities, that evolves with global developments and sets professional teaching standards. This independent authority should consist of highly qualified teachers, education administrators, parents, artists, businessmen, farmers, fishermen, successful entrepreneurs and members of the private sector who collectively map out the long-term education of our children and the cultivation of our teachers. Can prepare. , without any political obstruction. Irrespective of which party is in power, this scheme will continue to serve the best interests of our students and teachers and provide stability in education. This institution will also maintain accountability and standards among teachers with less political interference.
One Bermuda Alliance envisions a national parent teacher association, so that common problems in our schools can be brought forward and tackled collectively rather than advocated for individually by parents. Bermuda should never again see schools pitted against each other, as we have seen again with this Minister’s education reforms. We want to encourage parents to have a voice, which will increase their involvement within the Bermuda public school system.
I am pleased to hear that the Minister has accepted the OBA’s suggestion regarding an Independent Education Authority and hope that it will be implemented as soon as possible to help propel our education system forward in these turbulent times. Unfortunately, we have seen no legislative movement on implementing an independent education authority, and when it was mentioned by the PLP, they kept missing a very important word…independent.
Our teachers are spread too thin, under-resourced and understaffed, and constantly adjusting to changing reform plans.
One Bermuda Alliance believes that our public education system must be a priority for all Bermudians. We need a culture of learning that promotes a national standard of engagement by all of us to uplift our students, value the roles of our teachers in society and help tackle the social issues of our society.
– Dwayne Robinson is an opposition senator and candidate for Constituency 30, Southampton East Central.
Bermuda Center for Creative Learning [BCCL] is hosting a free dyslexia awareness workshop and launching a screening event for parents on November 12.
A spokesperson said, “Building on the success of September’s Unlocking Potential: Dyslexia Awareness and Education Forum for Teachers, Bermuda Center for Creative Learning [BCCL]Mindset is expanding its support for families, with Bermuda and The Reading Clinic. On November 12 from 6 pm to 7:30 pm, BCCL will host a free educational workshop for parents to learn more about dyslexia and language-based learning differences. The event will also mark the launch of BCCL’s dyslexia screening program, helping parents identify if their child is at risk and whether further assessment is recommended.
“Dyslexia is a common language-based learning disorder that affects the ability to read, spell, write, and sometimes speak. It is characterized by difficulty with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and poor spelling and decoding abilities. Dyslexia and other language-based learning disorders can vary in severity and may coexist with other conditions, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. [ADHD]Despite these challenges, individuals with dyslexia can achieve high levels of success with the right support.
“Research shows that early intervention and targeted literacy instruction can lead to measurable improvements in reading fluency and comprehension, giving children the tools they need to succeed. However, through dedicated programs, students overcome barriers and can achieve academic success. For BCCL, parents will gain insight into the latest research on language-based learning differences, the signs and characteristics of dyslexia, and evidence-based strategies to support children’s literacy and academic success. Expert speakers from the October forum will return to share their knowledge with families, including:
“Vivian Gonsalves, PhD-Clinical Associate Professor in the Literacy Institute at the University of Florida, discusses dyslexia and the science of reading. [Virtual]
“Dr. Samantha Scott-O’Bannon, Psy.D. – Clinical Neuropsychologist at Mindset Bermuda, presenting on the Neuropsychology of Reading.
“Tina Harris – The Reading Clinic, discussing the tutoring services they offer.
“BCCL’s Dyslexia Awareness Parent Night is free to all Bermuda families, although space is limited. For more information about the upcoming workshop or to register for a dyslexia screening, please visit the BCCL website. www.bermudacreativelearnign.com
BCCL is dedicated to serving Bermuda’s children with learning differences by providing resources, education and practical tools for parents and teachers. “We are excited to expand our reach to families and help parents understand and advocate for the learning needs of their children,” said Cindy Corday, Head of School at BCCL. “This workshop and screening opportunity reflects our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community for every learner in Bermuda.”
A spokesperson said, “For those who are interested in screening their child, registration and information about the dyslexia screening program will also be available at the event. This screening uses a comprehensive, evidence-based methodology and is followed by a 30-minute virtual meeting to review the results with families. A detailed report will be emailed to the family. There is a fee for the screening.
“The story around school reform in Bermuda has long since reached a boiling point, and now enormous pressures are being placed on teachers in the Bermuda public school system [BPSS] This is clearly intolerable and completely unacceptable,” said Dante Cooper, general secretary of the Bermuda Teachers Union.
“Recent actions have highlighted the Department of Education’s failure to properly prepare for teacher absences by keeping a strong, or even adequate, substitute teacher list,” Mr. Cooper said. This is an ongoing concern and the association has expressed this concern several times in recent months. Blaming teachers for systemic failure is unfair, and we will not let it stand.
“Furthermore, safety, scheduling, contracts, staffing and air-quality issues continue to plague schools and school staff throughout Bermuda, and, for us, enough is enough. These are all systemic failures of the education department [DoE] There are plots to make teachers sick every day – and the powers that be are fully aware of these concerns. In fact, they have known about them for a very long time.
“Ministry of Education [MoE] And the DOE should be ashamed of itself for allowing this situation to deteriorate to such an extent. These are not new issues. BUT have filed numerous complaints about these exact issues – many years ago – yet nothing has changed. In fact, it’s even worse now.
“The highly publicized ‘Signature Schools’ program is not yet fully staffed. There are classes on the student schedule that have been teacher-less since they were created. At CedarBridge Academy, these classes are covered by internal staff, as there is no one providing technical skills classes. Therefore, technical and vocational courses – the ‘signature’ courses – are not being taught. Public discussion is very beautiful – the ideas are grand; But, at this point, the execution is significantly lacking.
“This union finds the inaction of the MOE and DOE to be disgraceful and highly disingenuous – why are we not appointing teachers to the brilliantly conceived ‘signature’ programmes? Why are we increasing our most valuable asset? [our highly qualified and competent Teachers] Are they reaching their limits just to outline a program that is clearly not ready to launch yet?
“In recent months, staffing and safety concerns at Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy, Dalton E. Tucker and Harrington Sound Primary highlight the need for urgent attention to ensure high-quality educational environments for students and staff Is.
“Meanwhile, the ministry’s press statements are defensive and deflective at best, and downright malicious and dismissive at worst,” he said.
“BUT believes in BPSS – but things have to be right. If a course is to be offered in a ‘Signature’ programme, it must have a teacher. If any legitimate security concern is brought to the attention of the relevant powers, it should be rectified. If a teacher, or other member of staff, is working without a contract, and is not being compensated fairly, this needs to be fixed. These are not unreasonable expectations!
“We urge the Ministry of Education and the Department of Education to work closely with us to ensure that our teachers and students receive the support they need to maintain a high-quality educational environment. We are determined and committed to supporting our teachers and advocating for changes that will enhance teaching and learning in the Bermuda public school system.
