demonstrating to the public the quality and high standards of work done in the schools, according to Chairwoman of Education Month Dr. Norma Hendrickson. The then-Minister of Education the Hon. Gerald Simons thought it was important the community be informed of what was happening in the schools. Minister of Education the Hon. Dr. Clarence Terceira agrees: "Education month gives the opportunity to show positive things in the education system. "There have been a lot of advances in education,'' he said, adding that negative aspects of education in Bermuda are always identified, often overlooking the positive sides of the system. This year's theme, Education -- we mean business, has been well supported by students as well as both local and exempt companies.

Many teachers said they were surprised at the willingness of businesses to participate in the schools' career awareness programme and were happy to report that most companies were extremely helpful. Throughout the month, various schools held open houses, musical programmes, and business-education-related activities. Special features from February 21 to 24 this year included lunchtime school choir and band performances on the steps of City Hall, noted Dr. Hendrickson. "It's always a thrill for the community as well as tourists to see these activities.'' The Royal Gazette also publishes a Schools Page once a week during Education Month which highlights children's writing and drawing skills, she said. "The paper has always been very helpful in allowing us to do this. And I think it really helps to show the public what the students are working on in our schools,'' he said.

Education Month culminates with the Main Event at the Stonington Campus of Bermuda College on Sunday February 26th from noon to 4:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Bermuda College, the event includes businesses, government agencies and non-government agencies, parents and students in a fun-filled educational day, said Dr. Hendrickson. Besides school displays and mathematics, computer, science and career activities, there will be an antique bike exhibit, gymnastics display, cosmetic makeovers, a book fair and art shows. The Bermuda Regiment Band, Bermuda Island Pipe Band, the Gombeys and the Bermuda Karate Institute will perform. As well, look for aquarium adventures, face painting, speakers' corner, custom bike and car painting, the fun castle and the Young Enterprise Marketplace. A variety of food at reasonable prices will also be available. Said Dr. Terceira: "The Main Event is a marvellous opportunity for students to display what they do.

The community is invited to see what is happening in our schools and what the students are working on.'' PHOTO EDUCATION MONTH COMMITTEE -- (from left) Ms Victoria Outerbridge, Ms Kalmar Richards, Ms Lavern Lau, Dr. Norma Hendrickson, Mrs. Janette Musson, Ms Michelle Gabisi and Ms Jan Doidge.