The enrolment level at middle schools in Bermuda has remained consistent over time and the innovations in technology have become the envy of jurisdictions around the world.

That's reason to celebrate, Education Minister Terry Lister said yesterday during the official opening of the Annual Middle School Conference at the Fairmont Southampton Princess.

Mr. Lister told educators that middle schools in Bermuda had succeeded in the most important way ? retaining its boys.

He said one of the main reasons the Island moved in the middle school direction was to make a positive change in the lives of all children, but in particular, young black men.

"Let's face it, we're losing our sons and grandsons and to be honest, although we are still losing some, we are encouraging more young men to stay within school walls ? that is cause for celebration!" he said.

He congratulated middle school teachers on their success, adding that they could not afford complacency.

"We have gotten so used to the good life that we forget that we have to put effort into making ourselves better. Even if complacency does not kill it, it can sure do a lot of damage," he said.

Mr. Lister said that for some it was already too late.

"We all have a part in turning that around. As middle school educators, you are at the forefront of moving our children from complacency to challenge, and challenge is not a bad thing," he said.

He told educators to raise the bar of expectations, or remain faced with the same obstacles.

"We will receive the results that we have always gotten, but we can do better," he said.

Mr. Lister said not all middle school children performed at the level expected of them, adding that that was the challenge because children must learn to read before they can read to learn.

"Not all our middle school children are supported at home in the way which we believe will help them to grow and mature as they should. That's why the school has to help parents to recognise their place as their children's first and most important teachers," he said.

Mr. Lister ended by saying that it was important to reflect continually and re-assess constantly in order to ensure that educators do their part in making the Bermuda public school system the system of first choice in Bermuda.