Aerial view of Carambola Beach Resort & Spa Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM.
The V.I. Department of Education has announced the launch of its inaugural Parent Retreat, a two-day initiative designed to strengthen family engagement and support parents and caregivers of public-school students across the territory.
According to the Department, the retreat carries the theme “Bloom Where You Are Planted: Cultivating Parent Power” and is intended to empower parents by building confidence, strengthening relationships, and equipping them with practical tools to better support their children at home and in school.
The event reflects VIDE’s broader commitment to reinforcing family engagement as a foundation for student success.
“Parents are our students’ first teachers and strongest advocates. When parents are supported and empowered, children are better positioned to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. This retreat reflects our belief that strong schools are built through strong partnerships with families,” said Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington.
The retreat will be held separately in both districts. On St. Croix, Family Fun Night is scheduled for Friday, February 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Buddhoe Park, followed by the Parent Retreat on Saturday, February 28, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Carambola Beach Resort. On St. Thomas, Family Fun Night will take place Friday, March 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, with the Parent Retreat scheduled for Saturday, March 28, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Westin Beach Resort.
The first evening of each retreat weekend is open to the public and will feature Family Fun Night, described as a welcoming and relaxed environment bringing together parents, children, and caregivers. The second day is reserved exclusively for parents and caregivers and will include sessions focused on parenting strategies, communication, wellness, and practical tools that support student growth.
“This retreat was intentionally designed with parents at the center,” said Dynel Lang, director of Parental and Community Engagement and event coordinator. “We want parents to leave feeling confident, supported, and empowered in the role they play in their child’s education.”
Participation is limited to 100 parents per district to maintain a meaningful and interactive experience. A registration request is required and is available online at vide.vi. Confirmation emails will be sent no later than February 20th, and once capacity is reached, registration will close. The Department stated that it is committed to equitable representation from schools across each district. Submission of a registration request does not guarantee placement until confirmation is issued.
For additional information, the release directs inquiries to Dynel Lang at [email protected] or (340) 773-1095 Ext. 7095.
The department described the retreat as a step toward deepening collaboration between schools and families, with a focus on empowering parents as key partners in student success.
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