Good afternoon, Members of the Media:Attached are the two press conference statements presented today by the Minister of Education, Senator, the Hon. Crystal Caesar and the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP.Photos of Minister Furbert and Caesar are attached.Press Conference BudgetPress Conference Budget Remarks 

The Ministry of Education has extended the deadline to apply for scholarships and awards until after the holiday on Monday, April 21, 2025. That means students have more time to submit their applications.A spokesperson from the Ministry said, “We know how important it is to support Bermudian students, and we’re proud to offer a range of scholarships and financial awards, including the Further Education Award for those in postgraduate studies. We encourage all students pursuing post-secondary education to take advantage of these opportunities to help lighten the financial load for themselves and their families.”Whether you’re currently studying abroad, planning to attend Bermuda College, or heading to a school overseas, there’s still time to apply online, and the process is simple.For detailed information on the applications and award categories, visit www.bermudascholarships.com, listed under the Ministry of Education. For questions regarding the Ministry of Education Scholarship and Awards, please email scholarships@moed.bm.

The Education Reform Unit's (ERU) School Transformation Teams (STT) have been diligently working, meeting weekly in preparation for the September 2025 opening of two new parish schools: Devonshire Parish School, which will open at the current Elliot Primary School site, and Smith's Parish School, which will open at the Harrington Sound School site. These teams are pivotal in redesigning Bermuda's public education system to prepare young learners for a successful future. Meeting weekly, the teams are engaged in prototyping new features of their parish school,  gathering feedback, and refining key foundational documents, including each school's Case for Change, Vision For Learning, and overarching Blueprint Statements. In addition to developing curriculum and learning experiences for Years 1 and 7, the teams are designing innovative learning spaces and unique school features tailored to meet the needs of students and the broader community. They are also innovating and co-developing advanced strategies to redefine modern teaching and learning.  Since September 2024, the teams have conducted prototyping sessions with stakeholders, including students and parents, ensuring that their voices help shape the future of these schools. The School Transformation Team members include Principals Kimberly Creighton (Elliot) and Cindy Weeks (Harrington Sound); Deputy Principals; Department of Education Officers, Teachers; Paraeducators; Counsellors; Encore Teachers; Education Reform Unit Leads for Parish Primary Schools, ERU, Dr. Jana Pitcher and Luann Wainwright-Dill; School Transformation Co-Lead, Acting Director of Accountability and Standards, Department of Education, Terry Cox. STT Co-Leader Luann Wainwright-Dill said: "The Education Reform Unit wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the late Ms. Beverley Issac (pictured) for her invaluable contributions to the Smith Parish School STT. As a dedicated and passionate member of the Team, Ms. Issac devoted countless hours to advancing education reform. Her commitment and service leave a lasting impact. She will be deeply missed." Beyond the work at Elliot and Harrington Sound, the School Transformation Teams are also making strides in the continued transformation of the current parish school in Hamilton Parish School at the Francis Patton School site and Warwick Parish School at the Purvis Primary School site. For more information on the Parish School transformation process at Elliot and Harrington Sound, visitlearningfirstbda.com. 001: Devonshire Parish STTLeft to right seated: Anthony Crichlow, Makese Gilbert, Denise McCrary, Shiquita CarrLeft to right standing: Alana Wilson, Terry Cox, Kimberly Creighton, Jenna Bean, Daltonell Minors, Arnold Manders, Shannalee Aberdeen, Luann Wainwright-Dill O04: Smiths Parish STTLeft to right seated: Jana Pitcher, Cindy Weeks, Beverly Isaac, Kennelyn Smith, Carmelita TrottLeft to right standing: Luann Wainwright-Dill, Karen Bramlett, Terry Cox, Kim Ashby, April Roach-Maule, Terri-Lyn Talbot

The Government of Bermuda proudly congratulates Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene, Ph.D, the Department of Education's Acting Education Officer for Science, on being recognised as a Top Performer in the United Arab Emirates Digital Educator Global Academy, where over 11,000 educators participated globally. Dr. Goonewardene's achievement was honoured during a Suhoor gathering, a cherished tradition of the holy month of Ramadan, hosted by H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah, UAE Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Sharing. The event brought together representatives of 32 countries participating in the UAE's Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP) in the spirit of collaboration and unity. Bermuda's Special Representative for the Middle East, Ms. Alexia Hefti, accepted the award on Dr. Goonewardene's behalf. The Digital Educator Global Academy is a fully-funded UAE initiative designed to equip more than 11,000 educators from around the world with cutting-edge skills in areas like e-learning and artificial intelligence. Participants engaged in interactive training to enhance digital learning environments and drive innovation in their home countries' education systems. The Minister of Economy and Labour, Hon. Jason P. Hayward, stated: "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Goonewardene on this outstanding achievement. To be recognised by the UAE during Ramadan—an occasion dedicated to reflection and community—makes this honour all the more meaningful. His award is a testament to Bermuda's ability to shine on the world stage. It highlights the dedication of Bermudian educators to embracing digital transformation and educating a future-ready Bermuda." The Minister of Education, Senator Crystal Caesar, said: "We are pleased to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Dr Rajeev Goonewardene, who excelled amongst the 11,000 worldwide to take the top honour in the UAE's Digital Educator Global Academy. Dr. Goonewardene has set a new standard of excellence. His achievement inspires us and significantly contributes to the future of learning in Bermuda and the global education community." Minister Caesar added, "We are delighted that over 70 Bermuda Public School system educators also enrolled in the UAE's Digital Educator Global Academy; the course was self-paced and had to be completed by January 31, 2025. "On behalf of the Ministry of Education, we extend our congratulations and look forward to the integration of this professional development opportunity." Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene shared: "I am truly honoured and humbled to have represented not only Bermuda but also my dedicated Curriculum and Assessment team at the Department of Education in the Digital Educators Global Academy training programme." He added: "This has been an enriching experience, allowing me to expand my expertise. It is a privilege to contribute to Bermuda's reputation as a leader in digital education, demonstrating that despite our small size, we continue to make a significant impact on the global stage." Bermuda's participation in the Digital Educator Global Academy is part of a broader engagement in the UAE's Government Experience Exchange Programme, following the Partnership Agreement signed on July 10, 2024, between Minister Hayward and H.E. Abdulla Lootah. This partnership continues to offer Bermuda valuable opportunities for knowledge-sharing in governance, education, and innovation. Dr. Rajeev Goonewardene, Ph.D His Excellency, E Dr. Waleed Al Ali, Secretary General of the Digital School; Alexia Hefti, Bermuda's Special Representative, Middle East and Africa (accepting on behalf of Dr G), and His Excellency Abdulla Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange. 

The Minister of Education, Senator the Hon. Crystal Caesar, and the CedarBridge Academy Board of Governors have issued a statement today addressing the video about students fighting at the senior school.  "I have seen the video, and I am gravely concerned about the appalling behaviour of the students involved and the inaction of those who stood by without intervening. Incidents like these are not only alarming but entirely unacceptable. The Ministry maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward violence on our school campuses," said the Minister of Education, Senator Crystal Caesar. "I will work closely with the school to take swift and decisive action in addressing this matter, and we will utilise every measure available under the legislation to address this matter swiftly and decisively." The CedarBridge Academy Board of Governors Chair, Senator Lindsay Simmons, JP stated, "CedarBridge Academy is fully aware of the videos circulating regarding recent altercations among students. This behaviour violates the values and standards of our institution. We have commenced the necessary steps to address this unacceptable behaviour per our policies, and the issuing of consequences has also commenced. "Violence has no place at CedarBridge Academy. Our priority is to provide a secure, respectful, and orderly environment where students can focus on their education. We are actively working with students, parents, and staff to reinforce expectations, enhance disciplinary measures, and prevent any recurrence of such incidents. CedarBridge Academy is committed to maintaining a school community built on respect, unity, and accountability. Those who disrupt this environment will be addressed appropriately."

The Minister of Education’s Debate Challenge 2025 concluded with resounding success on Sunday, 16 March, 2025, at the CedarBridge Academy Cafetorium. Young debaters captivated the audience by showcasing excellence and eloquence. Since October 2024,  34 talented young debaters have participated in the weekly training sessions. These students competed in the preliminary, quarter, and semi-final rounds, culminating in the finals on Sunday, 16 March 2025.  The grand final students in the 10-11 age group debated the motion “This House would ban social media”, while the 12-14 age group tackled the complex topic “This House believes that major tourist destinations should significantly limit the number of tourists that can visit.” After fierce and compelling debates, the following students emerged victorious: • 10-11 Age Group Champions:• Russian Thompson, Connor Faries and Xela Hall • 12-14 Age Group Champions:• Nylah Matthews, Rudy Puhekker, and Etana Holdipp-Lynch Additionally, the top individual performers from the preliminary rounds were recognised:• Russian Thompson was named Overall Winner in the 10-11 age category.• Annabelle Nelson claimed the Overall Winner title in the 12-14 age category In attendance at the finals were, the Minister of Education Senator, the Honorable Crystal Caesar, JP and Commissioner of Education, Kalmar Richards, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Senator the Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP, commended the students for their poise, intellectual agility, and public speaking prowess. They emphasised the significance of debate as a critical tool for youth empowerment and expressed their pride in seeing public school students excel on such a grand stage. Debate leader and coach Gladstone Thompson stated, “I am so proud of our students and how they demonstrated their ability to engage in meaningful, well-researched discussions. The level of research, critical thinking, and articulate argumentation displayed by the participants left the audience and adjudicators in awe. The future of Bermuda is undoubtedly in capable hands.” Minister of Education, Crystal Caesar stated, “Today, we have witnessed something extraordinary. We have been in the presence of young minds who have challenged, inspired, and electrified us with their eloquence, conviction, and confidence in articulating their points.  Minister Caesar added, “As we bring this phenomenal event to a close, I want to acknowledge that this is not just an ordinary debate tournament. It is a historic and unforgettable moment that will be etched in the memories of all who have witnessed these talented students. “We owe gratitude to those who laid the foundation for this event. The former Minister of Education, the Hon. Diallo Rabain, was the catalyst, inspiring the creation of this tournament and encouraging Mr Gladstone Thompson to bring this vision to life. Because of their leadership and foresight, we have had the opportunity to experience the joy, pride, and inspiration these young people have brought to our community. The success of this year’s Minister’s Debate Challenge would not have been possible without the dedication and leadership of Gladstone Thompson, the Dynamic Debater’s team, and Kim Jackson and the Mirror’s team.” “If we remain committed to the triad of success—the parent, the educator, and the student—and if we work tirelessly to strengthen that partnership, ensuring it is free of distractions and negative influences, then Bermuda will be well-equipped to face the challenges of the future with strength and confidence. “As we close this chapter of the Minister’s Debate Challenge 2025, I extend my deepest appreciation to everyone who has played a role in making this tournament a success—the organisers, educators, parents, and most of all, our phenomenal debaters.” For information about future debate opportunities, contact Mr. Gladstone Thompson – dynamicgladstone1@gmail.com

The Ministry of Education has announced the revised transition plans for Year 8 and M2 students for September 2025.  The Minister of Education, Senator, the Hon. Crystal Caesar, emphasised the collaborative nature of the decision-making process, stating that this follows her meeting on 28 January with the senior school leadership teams from CedarBridge Academy, The Berkeley Institute, and Sandys Secondary Middle School. This meeting was a crucial step in reviewing their progress and assessing their readiness for September 2025, and it was a testament to the collective commitment to the students' education. To highlight the scope of the work that the senior school teachers are engaged in, Minister Caesar stated, "The senior school teams are working on the essential tasks of completing Signature Learning Programmes (SLP) courses for S4 students for 2025, preparing for incoming S1 students for September 2025 - who are currently M3 students and preparing for both internal and external examinations in the next few months." The Minister emphasised, "This complexity of these critical tasks has created some unreadiness. The senior school teams have been working long hours to accomplish these demands. I appreciate their time and commitment.  Minister Caesar continued, "Following the meeting on 28 January, the Commissioner of Education facilitated meetings with parish primary school principals from Francis Patton and Purvis Parish Schools, middle and senior school principals, the Department of Education and the Education Reform Unit. The following changes were agreed:  • Current M2 students will NOT physically move to the senior school site in 2025. However, they will remain at their respective middle school sites and complete a Y9 Senior programme. These students will be on track and have the credits necessary to transition to Year 10 Senior School in September 2026.  • Year 8 students at the Parish schools will transfer to a middle school site in September 2025 to complete the Y9 Senior programme. Minister Caesar added, "The Middle School Principals have provided sound leadership around the changes and are prepared to lead and ensure a successful Y9 Senior programme at their respective sites."  Minister Caesar concluded, "I have carefully listened to the concerns and insights of school leaders, teachers, and parents. Understanding that this transition impacts students and families directly. The Department of Education leadership team is now prepared to meet with the 20 parents of current Year 8 students from Francis Patton and Purvis Parish Schools and 222 parents of the current M2  students from Dellwood, Sandys and Whitney to share the framework and logistics for Y9 students for September 2025. The parent presentations include information on the components of the Y9 program and address questions raised by parents to date. The presentations are tailored to meet the needs of each parent group. The meetings will take place today, Tuesday, 11 March. We recognise that parents and students have many questions, and we are committed to keeping school communities informed. These are the first meetings, and a second one will be arranged before the end of the school term." 

Through their Signature Learning Program (SLP) courses, students at CedarBridge Academy are learning more than academics. Signature Learning Programs blend academics with real-world, project-based learning focused on technical and industry skills within and beyond school. Students from S1 and S3  Intro to Trades classes embarked on a unique and creative project. They joined the Textiles class to design and create custom toddler chairs for local preschools. The trades students applied their knowledge of plumbing systems, tools, and materials to construct the chair frames from PVC pipes, carefully measuring, cutting, and fitting the components to meet design specifications. The textile students taught their Trades classmates how to operate sewing machines, cut fabric, and sew skills not traditionally associated with trades courses. "We are grateful to the local businesses and entrepreneurs who donated fabrics and materials to make these projects possible," said Wilbur Lowe III, the Intro to Trades and Maker Space Resource teacher. "We plan to donate the chairs to local nurseries and preschools, giving back to the community while providing our students with real-world project experience." Last week, Minister Crystal Caesar visited the school to observe the Signature Learning Program. She interacted with the students in both classes and was impressed by their work."This project provides a snapshot of the awesome work and skills taught within our Senior School Signature Learning Programs. It was a pleasure to see the students enthusiastically working together on the design and construction of the toddler chairs," she remarked. Principal Kenneth Caesar expressed pride in the students and staff for their hard work and collaboration. "The Toddler Chair Project exemplifies CedarBridge Academy's commitment to fostering practical skills, creativity, and community involvement through its SLP courses. By integrating diverse disciplines like plumbing, design, and textiles, students gain valuable, hands-on experience that prepares them for future academic and career pursuits. " This collaboration is a shining example of the SLP's interdisciplinary approach in action," he said. "Mr. Lowe and Mrs Golda DeMattos, our Textiles teacher, are to be commended for spearheading this joint venture. The students have thoroughly enjoyed learning about trades, design, and materials, and the results speak for themselves." For more information about Signature Learning Programs, visit www.learningfirst.com

The application period for the Ministry of Education 2025 Scholarships and Awards is now open and will close on April 15, 2025. Acting Minister of Education Crystal Caesar stated, “We firmly believe that funding for post-secondary education should be allocated strategically and in alignment with our core values. Whether you are an aspiring student, a mature learner, or a dedicated teacher pursuing professional training, the Ministry is pleased to offer financial support to help you achieve your educational goals.”Minister Caesar also highlighted an expanded opportunity for students interested in studying within the Caribbean. “While we have always encouraged applications for the University of the West Indies (UWI) Scholarship, there has been a decline in applicants in recent years. To address this, we have broadenedthe scholarship criteria to include students attending other institutions within the Caribbean region.”Ms. Shanaye Smith, Ministry of Education Scholarship and Award Manager, encouraged students to apply early. “Students should give themselves ample time to gather all required documents and submit a strong, complete application before the deadline.”Minister Caesar reaffirmed the Government of Bermuda’s commitment to education through long-standing initiatives, including the highly competitive Bermuda Government Scholarships for top-performing scholars and the Further Education Awards for students requiring financial assistance to complete their degrees. “Last year, 67 students received scholarships across diverse fields and disciplines, and we will continue providing these life-changing opportunities,” she added.Since 2018, the Government has significantly increased funding and enhanced accessibility to Bermuda College by offering financial support to students in need. The College Promise Programme allows graduates of CedarBridge Academy and The Berkeley Institute to attend Bermuda College tuition-free, removing financial barriers to higher education. Over the past seven years, Bermuda College has received a $300,000 grant dedicated to supporting students through financial aid.Additionally, the Government has kept its promise to support the arts by awarding three Further Education Awards to students pursuing careers in art. Furthermore, 10 Further Education Awards are reserved for post-graduate students.The 2025 Ministry of Education Scholarships and Awards are:  1.    The Minister’s Achievement Scholarship helps high-achieving graduating students of CedarBridge Academy and The Berkeley Institute attend overseas post-secondary education. 2.    The Minister’s Exceptional Student Award for graduating students or school leavers with disabilities for local or overseas post-secondary study. Persons with disabilities up to the age of 25 who may be working, volunteering, or already attending college or university are eligible to apply. 3.    The Minister’s Technical and Vocational Award for public school graduates for local or overseas post-secondary study.4.    The Minister’s Applied Science Scholarship for graduating public senior school students who attended the Applied Technology Dual Enrolment Diploma Programme with Bermuda College and who plan to continue the programme to obtain an Associate’s Degree or certificate. 5.    The Further Education Award for current students who have completed at least one year at an accredited college or university for continued post-secondary study. Awards will also be given to students pursuing or attending post-graduate study.6.    The Non-Traditional Student Award for persons aged 25 and over pursuing post-secondary study.7.    The Teacher Education Scholarship for current college or university students for study of selected subjects and/or areas of teaching needed in the Bermuda Public School System. Applicants must graduate, complete their Teaching Practicum, and obtain a BEC Licence within three years of receiving this award.8.    The Bermuda Government Scholarship for well-rounded graduating senior school, college or university students up to the age of 25 who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. 9.    The University of the West Indies Scholarship provides funding for up to 3 years for either undergraduate or post-graduate students. 10. The College Promise Programme provides public high school graduates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher the opportunity to attend The Bermuda College tuition-free. 11. The Bermuda College Book Award provides funding for books for Bermuda College students in financial need.  For questions regarding the Ministry of Education Scholarship and Awards, please email scholarships@moed.bm. To apply visit bermudascholarships.com 

JANUARY 19TH UPDATEThe Department of Education has issued an update regarding the recent international cybersecurity breach involving unauthorised access to the PowerSchool Student Information System (SIS) customer data.Commissioner of Education Kalmar Richards emphasised the seriousness of the situation and the Department's measures."PowerSchool has confirmed that the breach included data from some Bermuda Public Schools families and teachers. The data extracted were in the student and teacher tables. The compromised information primarily consists of parent and student contact details, such as names, students' date of birth, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses."Additionally, PowerSchool has informed clients that more sensitive personally identifiable information (PII) was also affected for certain individuals. The Department captures PII information in the medical alert field, such as allergies and asthma.  Unfortunately, until PowerSchool recovers the Bermuda database logs files covering the period of the breach, we are unable to confirm whether PII specific to Bermuda Public Schools was compromised."Commissioner Richards continued, "We eagerly await a timeline for when we will receive confirmation regarding the impact on our students' PII. Upon receiving the update, the Department of Education will immediately inform affected individuals."Commissioner Richards reassured stakeholders: "Our other cloud-based services, such as Schoology, remain secure and unaffected. Furthermore, we have submitted the Personal Information Notification documents to the Privacy Commissioner and have been fully cooperating with them." "PowerSchool has been a trusted vendor for the Department since 2008, and this marks the first cybersecurity incident under their service. In addition to contact information for teachers and students, the Department utilises PowerSchool SIS tables to capture data on attendance, courses, enrollment history, grades, and behavior incidents. The Department remains committed to ensuring the security of all student and staff data and will take all necessary steps to safeguard any sensitive or personal data."She concluded with a direct line of communication for concerns: "Families and staff with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Office of the Commissioner via email at coe@moed.bmTo read PowerSchool's statement on the cyber incident, visit https://www.powerschool.com/security/sis-incident/ JANUARY 10thThe Department of Education was notified by its student information system provider, PowerSchool, of a recent cybersecurity incident affecting their clients. PowerSchool is a leading provider of cloud-based K-12 education software based in North America, providing these services in over 90 countries and to thousands of students and school organizations. This breach occurred on PowerSchool’s internal systems. The breach has not affected any of Bermuda Public Schools’ other systems or networks. This was an isolated incident specific to PowerSchool's infrastructure. According to PowerSchool, malware was not involved in this incident. PowerSchool has advised the Department that the incident has been contained and that their systems remain secure.  Here are the key details from PowerSchool: PowerSchool experienced a security breach when an unauthorized party gained access to its systems via a compromised credential. This means an individual’s username and password were used without authorization. The unauthorized access allowed the party to reach the management console of PowerSchool’s PowerSource tool.The data that may have been compromised includes family and staff contact information such as name and address information. PowerSchool has also indicated that for some individuals across their customer base, some personally identifiable information (PII) such as medical information may have been impacted. They are still investigating whether PII belonging to our students was included.PowerSchool believes that the compromised data has been deleted and will not be shared publicly. They are actively working to prevent further unauthorized access or misuse of data. The Department of Education Response:In keeping with Bermuda’s privacy laws, the Commissioner of Education, Mrs. Kalmar Richards, has informed the Office of the Privacy Commissioner. Additional information will be provided to the Privacy Commissioner’s Office and our staff and families as it becomes available.Mrs. Richards said: “We are in close contact with PowerSchool and are actively monitoring the situation. It is worth noting that this breach is on PowerSchool’s International system and has not affected any of the Ministry’s local systems."We understand that this incident may raise concerns and appreciate your continued understanding as we work to address this issue. The safety and security of our students' and staffs' data remains a top priority."PowerSchool has informed us that it has contained the breach and is working to prevent any further unauthorized access or misuse of the compromised data. They are taking steps to ensure the data will not be publicly shared. They continue to investigate the incident and will share information as it becomes available."Families and staff with any questions or concerns may contact the Office of the Commissioner by emailing coe@moed.bm."