The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports has named the top primary and secondary school students for 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

The Territory’s top-performing Grade 6 student is Layla Zoe Dulapo Saniana (left) from Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, followed closely by Sofia Kaylee Rampersaud (right), also from Ebenezer Thomas Primary School. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

According to the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, a total of 248 students successfully met all graduation requirements, achieving an impressive graduation rate of 97 percent for 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

According to the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, a total of 248 students successfully met all graduation requirements, achieving an impressive graduation rate of 97 percent for 2026. 

Notably, 100 percent of male students met graduation requirements, while 95 percent of female students graduated. Additionally, 69 percent of graduates earned either Honours or High Honours, highlighting the strong academic performance demonstrated throughout the Territory.

Among the 248 graduates, 134 students—representing 54 percent of the graduating class—were dually enrolled at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), earning college credits while completing their secondary education. 

The Ministry stated that the increasing participation in dual-enrollment programmes at HLSCC reflects a culture of academic ambition, giving students a significant head start in their tertiary education.

Top performing students 

The Ministry also acknowledged the top-performing students from other public secondary schools:

- Bregado Flax Educational Centre: Leanfer Hernandez (Valedictorian) and Kyle Alexander (Salutatorian)

- Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies: Ethan Faulkner (Valedictorian) and A’nyah Thomas (Salutatorian)

- Claudia Creque Educational Centre: Aisha Varlack (Valedictorian) and Anjuliena Smith (Salutatorian)

Chief Education Officer Mrs Orlandette R. Crabbe commended the Class of 2026 for their achievements, stating, “The accomplishments of this graduating class are especially commendable because our students successfully balanced rigorous academic requirements, extracurricular involvement and personal responsibilities while remaining committed to excellence.” 

The ministry stated that students are required to earn a minimum of sixty credit hours within their selected programme of study by attaining grades of C or better, complete at least eighty hours of approved community service, and achieve passing scores on the Exit Proficiency Examination in both English and Mathematics to graduate from the Virgin Islands public secondary school system.

2026 class exhibited increased commitment 

Mrs Crabbe remarked that the Class of 2026 not only met these requirements but also exhibited an increasing commitment to pursuing advanced academic opportunities while still in secondary school.

She added that the achievements recorded this year reflect the hard work of principals, teachers, support staff, parents, guardians, and community partners who continue to guide and support students throughout their educational journeys.

The Chief Education Officer emphasised that the success of the Class of 2026 illustrates that excellence is attained through perseverance, discipline, and a willingness to embrace opportunities for growth.

Grade six students also performed well

The Ministry is also celebrating the accomplishments of Grade 6 students across the Territory’s public primary schools as they prepare to transition into secondary education. 

During the 2025–2026 academic year, a total of 291 Grade 6 students were enrolled. Of these, 280 were promoted, while 11 transitioned through alternative educational pathways and support mechanisms designed to meet their individual needs.

The Territory’s top-performing Grade 6 student is Layla Zoe Dulapo Saniana from Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, followed closely by Sofia Kaylee Rampersaud, also from Ebenezer Thomas Primary School.

Notably, seven of the Territory’s Top Ten Grade 6 students are female, while three are male. Ebenezer Thomas Primary School produced four of the Top Ten students, while Enis Adams Primary School accounted for three.