Assistant Education Commissioner Maria Encarnacion (right) seen with Education Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin. Photo Credit: The Dept. of Education
The Department of Education late Saturday announced the passing of Assistant Commissioner Maria Encarnacion, who died on December 21 following a brief illness.
In an email message to employees Saturday evening, D.O.E. Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin expressed her sorrow at the news of Encarnacion’s passing.
“We are deeply saddened, and our hearts are heavy,” Berry-Benjamin said. “Words cannot adequately express what Ms. Encarnacion has meant to the St. Croix District, the Department of Education, and to me personally. We send our love to her vast family, and personal and professional circles. The Department of Education will not be the same without Ms. Encarnacion, a consummate educational leader and our friend. She will be profoundly missed.”
Encarnacion had been employed with the Department of Education for almost four decades, serving in a range of capacities, including elementary teacher, assistant principal, principal, deputy superintendent, and district director of curriculum and instruction. She was appointed assistant commissioner under the Bryan Administration, according to D.O.E.
Encarnacion attended St. Joseph High School and studied Elementary Education at the College of the Virgin Islands, both on St. Croix.
Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
