Moko Jumbies at the 2021 Limpricht Park Christmas tree-lighting event in downtown Christiansted. By. V.I. CONSORTIUM
In honor of Virgin Islands History Month, the V.I. Department of Education's Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education has launched the "We Are All Stewards of Our Culture and Heritage" campaign. This initiative seeks to weave the rich tapestry of the islands' culture into the fabric of education by encouraging the integration of the Kallaloo Framework into daily lesson plans.
With a focus on making cultural education accessible, the department has provided district-level lesson plans on its curriculum portal #GoOpenUSVI. This enables educators to easily incorporate cultural standards into their teaching methodologies. "This campaign is more than just a slogan; it's an inclusive invitation to parents, teachers, and students. It serves as a gentle reminder that preserving our cultural heritage transcends history class—it applies to every subject and grade level," said Stephanie Chalana Brown, director of the Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education.
To further engage the community, VIYA has partnered with the division to introduce three interactive challenges aimed at both students and teachers throughout the territory:
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Students Digitized Storytelling Challenge: This initiative encourages students to become the narrators of Virgin Islands heritage through digital storytelling. Participants are invited to explore and document the legacy of the islands from historical anecdotes to family tales, using digital tools and interviews. Winning entries from both the St. Croix and St. Thomas - St. John districts will be awarded a choice of a Samsung or iPhone mobile phone, complete with a year of free service from Viya. Submissions are due by April 12, 2024.
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Environmental Stewardship Program Challenge: Under the theme "Cultivating Our Culture, Conserving Our Land," classrooms are tasked with developing projects that address local environmental concerns while underscoring the cultural and historical value of the territory. Winning classrooms from both districts will receive exciting prizes from Viya, with submissions due on April 19, 2024.
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Teacher's V.I. History Door Challenge: Dubbed the "Guardians of Our Heritage," this contest invites teachers to decorate their classroom doors or designated spaces to reflect the campaign's theme. Winners from each district will receive a MIFI Device with a year of free service from Viya, with submissions due by April 12, 2024.
Entries for all challenges should be submitted via email to [email protected].
