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Connie George tipped to be new Chief Education Officer

- Has Jillian Douglas-Phillip been snubbed by Education & Culture Minister Hon Myron V. Walwyn?
According to information reaching our newsroom, Ms Connie George (right), an Education Officer within the Department of Education, is to replace Acting Chief Education Officer Jillian Douglas-Philip (left). Photo: VINO/File
Minister for Education and Culture, Hon Myron V. Walwyn (inset) has been criticised for taking $1M of public funds before the 2015 general elections to build a small wall around the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) that has not solved the safety issues at the school. Photo: VINO
Minister for Education and Culture, Hon Myron V. Walwyn (inset) has been criticised for taking $1M of public funds before the 2015 general elections to build a small wall around the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) that has not solved the safety issues at the school. Photo: VINO
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Word just reaching our newsroom from our well-placed sources within the Ministry of Education and Culture is that the controversial Minister for Education and Culture Hon Myron V. Walwyn has reportedly recommended through his Permanent Secretary that Ms Connie George, an Education Officer within the Department of Education, is to be named the new Acting Chief Education Officer.

The post was advertised and there was said to be about five applicants, including the current Acing Chief Education Officer Mrs Jillian Douglas-Phillip, who has been acting in the post from June 2012.

Officials at the Ministry of Education are tight-lipped on the possible appointment of the new acting Chief Education Officer (CEO).

It is also believed that Mrs Douglas-Phillip was snubbed by Minister Walwyn, as no Chief Education Officer would have been appointed without the approval of the subject Minister.

Our newsroom is investigating the fallout between Mr Walwyn and Douglas-Phillip as less than a year after Hon Walwyn took office [2011-current] he got rid of the then acting CEO Ms Beverlie Brathwaite and replaced her with the same Jillian Douglas-Phillip.

Education in the VI

Education in the Virgin Islands has begun to suffer from lack of funds and political leadership. In the past three years many parents, teachers, civil society and students have said the education system has gone to the dogs, as it has become too political, and that children can do as they please, while teachers’ morale are low.

Many complain that at some public schools in the territory there are lack of basic items such as water and toilet paper. Fights continue to dominate the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS), and teachers are forced to take funds from their pockets to purchase basic teaching supplies.

The Minister for Education, Hon Walwyn came under fire for taking $1Million of public funds before the 2015 general elections to build a small wall around the ESHS that has not done anything to address the safety issues at the school.

When this news site broke the story after Dr The Hon D. Orlando Smith told the public of the cost in an answer to a question in Parliament, Hon Walwyn first told the public that his Leader and Minister of Finance Dr Smith had misled the public on the figure in a House of Assembly answer to a question.

Later, the Education and Culture Minister changed his tune and admitted that the wall was a million dollars, but if it had been put to public tender it would have cost tax payers two (2) million dollars. Many in the intellectual and political class have scoffed at the attempt to justify what they have labelled as abuse of tax payers’ funds.

55 Responses to “Connie George tipped to be new Chief Education Officer”

  • school children (09/05/2016, 18:11) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    Hummmmmmmm thing to talk
  • Bad to worst (09/05/2016, 18:51) Like (35) Dislike (2) Reply
    The ministry of education gone from bad to worst. My prayers are with them now.
  • The Chairman (09/05/2016, 18:51) Like (30) Dislike (8) Reply
    Connie George is Good People! She has my support.
    • @The Chairman (09/05/2016, 21:13) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
      Do good people see wrong and do nothing about it when they can? Who know know....
      • The Chairman (10/05/2016, 06:35) Like (17) Dislike (0) Reply
        Never looked at it that way. You have a point there, but we all may be guilty of such, especially professing the god that we so like to serve. Nothing is never what it seems with the input of other perspectives. We all has some work to do; there is still hope for us so long as we decide to put in the work required to do so and not expect god to come and do it in the physical. We were given hands and brains for earthly work. That also goes for all those so-called “god fearing brothers and sisters in christ” as well. We have to Stop using god’s name in vain if we don't intend to carryout his will.
  • concern (09/05/2016, 18:54) Like (12) Dislike (4) Reply
    As an educator this news is quite entertaining as the replacement isn't any better. Sorry to say but not much change will happen as all the replacement good at is delegating and hope for praises in the end. My advice to you Mrs George is to please learn your role and responsibilities well as its not just a title.
    • jus sayn (10/05/2016, 06:38) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
      @concern. Very good advice for ms George it is Not jus a title She needs to be reminded it wont be any PRAYER MEETING. Either. This will be a test of her christian faith
      • Lol is back on home soil (10/05/2016, 09:57) Like (7) Dislike (1) Reply
        Let's run MVW out of office along with his cronies. Everyone laugh when I kept telling them to vote "None of the above!" Last election. Not only is new party needed. New people needed from top down
  • concern (09/05/2016, 18:54) Like (6) Dislike (7) Reply
    Wasn't there an interview process?
    Isn't the Minister acting on the advice of the PSC, after their deliberation?

    Isn't the Minister on the latter leg of the process?

    Why is he being blamed for choosing one over the other?

    • @ concern (09/05/2016, 19:13) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
      she could not get then job with ut he agreeing that who he wants fool
    • $$$$$$$$$ (09/05/2016, 20:14) Like (8) Dislike (1) Reply
      "The Minister for Education, Hon Walwyn came under fire for taking $1Million of public funds before the 2015 general elections to build a small wall around the ESHS that has not done anything to address the safety issues at the school.

      When this news site broke the story after Dr The Hon D. Orlando Smith told the public of the cost in an answer to a question in Parliament, Hon Walwyn first told the public that his Leader and Minister of Finance Dr Smith had misled the public on the figure in a House of Assembly answer to a question.

      Later, the Education and Culture Minister changed his tune and admitted that the wall was a million dollars, but if it had been put to public tender it would have cost tax payers two (2) million dollars. Many in the intellectual and political class have scoffed at the attempt to justify what they have labelled as abuse of tax payers’ funds." the real issue
  • wize up (09/05/2016, 18:56) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    Yea Connie; my old school mate & class mate...
  • speechless (09/05/2016, 19:12) Like (8) Dislike (1) Reply
    At a young age my mother taught me, when you don't have nothing good to say, shut your mouth. Thanks mom because there is nothing good here in this story. Speechless
  • cay (09/05/2016, 19:14) Like (19) Dislike (2) Reply

    He does fall OUT with all his friends you wait until he falls out with connie,..just power hungry

  • Observer! (09/05/2016, 19:19) Like (11) Dislike (1) Reply
    This is a STUPID IDEA!!!
    MW DESTROYED the house of asssebly ,NOW HE IS ABOUT TO DESTROY EDUCATION
    • @observer (10/05/2016, 23:01) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      I hate to be tbe one to tell you guys that education already gone to the dogs! I work in the classroom, where it all matters and if parents knew what was REALLY going on their jaws would hit the floor! A number of our students have migrated to CAHS in St. Thomas
      to finish high school, their parents had the sense and means to see the mess coming and get them out. There is no clear vision, no path to follow, no stability, and no money. If you do not fit into an NDP box you are removed. The media has been lied to repeatedly in one eay or the other about matters that I was fully aware of, and I know what was said was not the truth. As a government worker you are micromanaged with your hands tied, and your position and salary are in constant threat. We were told by out superiors to never tell the media anything, the ceo is to address the media. But the ceo is just a puppet. There are some ministers in this government that have no compassion. They are only concerned with how their achievements look on paper so they can have bragging rights and fool you people into voting for them. There are days my son comes home with feces in his drawers becaus his school has no toilet paper for the millionth time. Don't be fooled by the fancy talk and flashy new buildings that have us so in debt we can't even buy toilet paper for our children to clean themselves when they use the bathroom. So much for DEMOCRATIC rights.... And as for Connie being CEO... the plot thickens....
  • @ concern (09/05/2016, 19:35) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    The PSC goes by the recommendations forwarded from the PS, who makes recommendations under the INSTRUCTIONS of the minister! Simple maths. If he decides he don't want you, you are gone. Civil servants get no representation from the heads (ps) . They only looking out for themselves. Let's start a pity party. Interviews are just a sham. She was hand picked without a doubt
  • Teacher (09/05/2016, 19:42) Like (11) Dislike (9) Reply
    We were glad when she leave high school! Now we DEAD
    • Teachers (09/05/2016, 21:01) Like (19) Dislike (1) Reply
      Look speak for yourself...I'm not in any agreement with you and that..ESHS is in a mess right now as we speak.. Is the Lower Estate friends and family what have the school in shabby
  • ------------------------- (09/05/2016, 19:53) Like (18) Dislike (3) Reply
    About 72% of teachers and parents DO NOT care who the CEO is as nothing will get better as long as Myron is Minister
  • answer (09/05/2016, 19:54) Like (7) Dislike (1) Reply
    Vino can I answer your question? Yes Jillian Douglas has been snubbed! Answer
  • Angel (09/05/2016, 19:55) Like (12) Dislike (7) Reply
    Mrs. George is a great educator with morals..
    Congrats..
    • @Angel (10/05/2016, 23:12) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply

      I feel sorry for you if you think Connie George is the answer. I am not happy if this is our next ceo, but like everything NDP has done, we will all have to grin and bare it.

  • Ohh La La (09/05/2016, 20:13) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    That is the case for all of us practitioners, that does not excuse years and years of delay...what about others who was in the sytem for years? Dr B knew why she did not take the JOB
  • Peer Park (09/05/2016, 20:52) Like (11) Dislike (2) Reply
    If Connie is the new CEO and so what..what about those who rob million of dollars and left the country broke. She is perfectly qualify and with a BA degree mean a Born Again Christian she will be ok...
  • Please no (09/05/2016, 21:09) Like (9) Dislike (7) Reply
    Big Mistake. She and the others have made a shambles of the curriculum. Jillian is a way better choice. In addition she is not a people person
  • @Peer Park (09/05/2016, 21:24) Like (12) Dislike (3) Reply
    Born Again Christian doesn't mean a thing. Some of those Christians are just as crooked or worst than people who do not profess to know Christ. They know better, and should do better, but they just like everyone else hide things under the rug and pretend everything is right.
  • Principal (09/05/2016, 21:52) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    Madam CEO, go with God and may God go with you. I am not eligible to choose the CEO but now that you are my boss, I will fall in line and support you and the system as much as I can.

    "Yeah, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. For thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."
    Remember, 'You never back down when God is backing you up!'




    • Peer Park (10/05/2016, 06:00) Like (8) Dislike (1) Reply
      Well said Principal...though she walk though the valley of dead Connie do not fear evil..God is with you...he have the final say...NOT BLOGGERS
  • Charley Rose (09/05/2016, 23:06) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Well. I do hope that we will see a change for the better. My suggestion is for whoever becomes CEO is for that person to leave the office and visit ALL the schools regularly and see for his or herself what needs to be done to improve the standard of education. After all without a good education system the country will be better off dead.
  • Just saying (09/05/2016, 23:30) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
    Those of you who are without sin should cast the first stone AND if by chance you can't do that, then you need to reserve your comments and stop from being so critical. The two ladies in question are equally qualified and they have both done an excellent job in the education system. Jesus has the FINAL SAY and NOT the Minister, PS, TSC, PSC, or else.
  • need a bi election (09/05/2016, 23:31) Like (11) Dislike (2) Reply
    Myrom a sick man
  • boy (10/05/2016, 00:57) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    Hlscc down the drain to.....friends in position and not doing a darn thing. They need to appoint a new board and move it back under the premier.
  • concern (10/05/2016, 07:37) Like (9) Dislike (1) Reply
    What happened to the Chalwell-Brewley women? She has her PHD.
  • Really? (10/05/2016, 08:17) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    BVI education has begun to suffer? Really, you only just now noticed? A thing to tell da king...IMHO, the leaders of the BVIs have totally abdicated their responsibility towards the future generations of the BVIs. Can anybody name one valid rational reason why the BVIs should not be the leader in education in the Caribbean? We have the funds, or at least used to. Who will replace the present leadership? They're all in the BVI educational system now, so what can we expect? Again, where there is no vision, the people will perish, as Mr. Stout was fond of saying.
    • wow (10/05/2016, 10:32) Like (8) Dislike (3) Reply
      BVI Education isn't suffering because of Government but rather poor parenting and kids being left to fend for themselves in every way shape and form. Nobody wants to take responsibility for their actions around here! Ask yourselves why there's always a set of kids that, no matter which Government School they attend, they get good grades, have manners, turn out to be productive people in society, why? Because their parents take responsibility and raise them well, not using the School and Government as a crutch. Government has a responsibility to put our tax dollars to the best use when it comes to Education and everything else. But we as parents and a society have a major role to play as well and we are falling short in a major way. Stop with the excuses and step up, this is our Country.
  • AHH (10/05/2016, 08:58) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    6, 1 way 1/2 dozen the next. More of the same
  • The Bible!!! (10/05/2016, 09:12) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Proverbs 29:18King James Version (KJV)

    18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
  • So Blessed (10/05/2016, 10:41) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    Connie, be encouraged! You are more than qualified for this position and God is with you. 1 Peter 3:8-22
  • SPEAKTHETRUTH (10/05/2016, 11:32) Like (9) Dislike (1) Reply
    Speak the truth, man. Ah say, speak the truth. The education system is not bad because of Myron, Douglas, Connie or the 'relse. If it is bad, it is because all the trushies who fulling up our schools and where our monies should be spent to better the infrastructure and improve the teachers, it has to be spent elsewhere. Look nuh. Education's resources are stretched and ready to bus because we got too many non-Virgin Islands churren in our schools. You come to work, leave them where you mek them. Don't burden our system.
  • tola (10/05/2016, 14:38) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply
    If a person is good to act for 4 years they should be confirmed in the post. The prime minister should see that the appointment is made..
  • E.A.P.S Parent (10/05/2016, 19:08) Like (4) Dislike (12) Reply
    Congrats Mrs. George

    We have serious problems up at Meyers that need to be address immediately,and the biggest problem is the principal.. She need to go!!!!! She is running the school down hill very fast... Is like government is turning a blind eye to the serious situation.. So I hope Mrs. George address the problem before next school year...
  • Jack-B-Quik (10/05/2016, 21:04) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    There are many bloggers on here who will not agree with me, and that’s fine. It really doesn’t matter and the truth is the truth. First of all, what our country needs more than anything is to be led by true, God-fearing Christ-like folk. We need men and women with good Christian ideals who know and understand that there is a higher power to whom they are responsible at the end of all age. Knowing Mrs. George personally as a God-fearing, Christian woman with great vision, I have no doubt that she will do a tremendous job, and accomplish tremendous things under His leadership. We need to stop with the belief that it will all be the “same old, same old”, and spouting foolishness about “cronies”. I can promise you that Mrs. George is not the “crony” nor “puppet” of any minister or leader of this government. She works for the Almighty, as she knows she has a greater responsibility, and Him to answer to when all of this is over and done.
    • Peer Park (10/05/2016, 22:47) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      Well said..Jack -B-Quit Connie sure will do a great job..
    • @jack b quik (10/05/2016, 23:37) Like (2) Dislike (4) Reply

      Correction she will be working for US, also known as Myron Walwyn. Keep God out of this mess. No one is challenging her Christianity. Only she knows about her relationship with God. What we challege is her inability to associate with people. Saying that someone does not deserve a position that they have worked for because they are a 'single mother' is disgusting. So much for morals!

      • Jack-B-Quik (11/05/2016, 08:55) Like (2) Dislike (2) Reply
        I will NOT keep GOD out of anything! Maybe that IS our problem. If we'll busy ourselves putting GOD in EVERYTHING, there'd be NO mess!
  • question (10/05/2016, 21:05) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Who is the Chief Education Officer?
  • Mrs. Phillip (10/05/2016, 22:51) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Connie is the new CEO for the Ministry of Education we do not want her to go in there to be acting..
    • @mrs. Phillips (15/05/2016, 06:52) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      It appears that all of us have been unclear dear......we don't care if she acts or she is genuine....WE DON'T WANT HER AS CEO of education,Dr. Brewley is a better choice hands down, but she won't take the post bc she does not agree with a lot of the decisions that she will be forced to make.


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