V.I. Dept. of Education Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin By. D.O.E.
V.I. Dept. of Education Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin has tested positive for Covid-19, D.O.E. announced Friday night. Ms. Berry-Benjamin underwent Covid-19 testing on Sept. 10 after experiencing symptoms overnight on Sept. 9, according to the release.
The commissioner did not perform any official duties following an emergency press conference she hosted on Sept. 9, D.O.E. said.
Assistant Education Commissioner Victor Somme III will serve as Acting Commissioner while Berry-Benjamin recuperates.
D.OE. said Ms. Berry-Benjamin has been fully vaccinated since February 2021.
During a telephone call to staff on Friday evening, the commissioner said employees and the community should continue to follow all Covid-19 safety protocols, as the coronavirus remains prevalent, and all are susceptible to it.
D.O.E. extends best wishes for a speedy recovery to the commissioner and thanked the community for its support.