The third annual Education Expo on Saturday was loaded with information booths and an exciting line up of speakers.

Dr. Randall Tankard, a Bermudian at Howard University, in Washington, DC., said: "A shift in educational development strategy in addition to a shift in National development strategy is necessary if we are going to bring out the best in our students."

Dr. Tankard addressed a small audience of parents and educators in Ruth Seaton James Auditorium at CedarBridge Academy about bringing out the best in Bermuda's youth.

He said that our education system was based on colonialism and that "isms" such as sexism, classism, and racism will in entrenched if we do not reform.

He added that Bermuda's public education system is entrenched in politics and cannot be separated from it.

Dr. Tankard also said that a system should be established where students have confidence and realize their potential and responsibility. He added: "It is not happening at the moment."

Dr. Llewellyn Simmons also addressed the audience and said: "Informal education shapes formal education."

He added that the teachers we have are excellent but the problem is that we do not research our excellence.

The expo offered a host of sessions and workshops throughout the afternoon for parents, teachers, and students.

Student sessions included Strategies for Success and a debate on whether or not the local community is responsible for youth violence.

Parents and educators were also able to debate the same topic but it was divided into groups.

School Survival for Parents: Helping Young Children Cope with School discussed how parents can help their children with their primary school education.

The Expo was filled with information booths ranging from The Bermuda College to the Department of Health.

And there was even something for the toddlers to do.

The little ones entertained themselves in the Kids Zone with paints, books, and games.