Education Minister Randy Horton has thanked educators and union members for attending information sessions organised in conjunction with the Interim Education Board.

The discussions last week updated participants on the progress of the reforms to the public schools as recommended by the Hopkins Report.

The Ministry of Education will hold public meetings across the Island next week. These will see the Minister joined by Consultant Executive Officer Henry Johnson, Ministry staff and representatives of the Interim Education Board for formal presentations followed by question and answer sessions.

They will be held on the following dates at 6 p.m:

• Monday, May 12, St. James Church Hall, Middle Road, Sandys.

• Tuesday, May 13, World Heritage Centre, Penno's Wharf, St. George's.

• Wednesday, May 14, Cathedral Hall, Church Street, Hamilton.

Mr. Horton said of the first week of meetings: "I am pleased with the attendance at each meeting and the discussions generated have been helpful.

"I believe those who attended asked the questions they wanted to and are clearer on the workings of the Interim Education Board, the reform process and how the reforms will affect them.

"I listened, and many of the suggestions offered at the meetings will be taken into consideration.

"I believe that we are closer to fully understanding that true substantive reform can only be achieved if we work together."