The Minister of Education gave a filmed address welcoming all of Bermuda’s students back to the classroom yesterday.

Crystal Caesar and Kalmar Richards, the Commissioner of Education, greeted families at some of the public schools which reopened to children, a week after the private schoolchildren returned.

This academic year, Harrington Sound Primary School and Elliot Primary School opened as parish primary schools, bringing the total to four, while Sandys Secondary School opened as the third senior signature school.

Ms Caesar made some announcements in her address including the introduction of an artificial intelligence assisted reading tutor and an updated code of conduct focusing on restorative practices.

She said: “It’s always an exciting time when a new school year begins. On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I’m delighted to welcome back all of our school communities — public, private and tertiary.

“To students, parents, teachers, staff and principals, welcome to the beginning of the new school year.

“Looking ahead, the Department of Education will be introducing several important initiatives this year — an updated code of conduct that establishes our schools as restorative spaces, a new AI reading tutor that supports students on their learning journey and a refreshed Gifted and Talented Programme to nurture student potential.

“At the Ministry of Education, we remain committed to creating policies that support the whole child, and foster world-class teaching and learning in safe environments.

“Just as importantly, we will continue expanding opportunities for parents and the wider community to be active partners in our schools. We need you.

“Over the coming weeks, I will make a series of important announcements that will focus on education transformation and system improvements.

“As your education minister, it is my great pleasure to welcome you and your families back to school back. I wish each of you a safe healthy and successful year ahead.”

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