School Leaders Revitalized at the National Institute of Advancement’s 2025 Leadership Summit

The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) Department of Education initiated preparations for the 2025-2026 academic year with the launch of its annual School Leadership Summit. Held at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, the three-day workshop brought together principals, deputy principals, and education officers from both public and private schools across Nevis. The summit serves as the official kick-off to the back-to-school season and sets the tone for the educational journey ahead. This year’s theme, “Own the Journey: Reclaiming Purpose, Restoring Passion, Renewing Practice,” resonates throughout the summit and will guide the entire academic year, emphasizing the importance of dedication, commitment, and continuous professional development for educators.

The opening ceremony featured remarks from key figures within the Nevisian education system. Honourable Troy Liburd, Minister of Education, expressed his gratitude for the unwavering commitment of school leaders and encouraged them to approach the new school year with renewed purpose, particularly in light of the recently released CSEC results. He emphasized the crucial role educators play in shaping young lives, highlighting the importance of each contribution, from teachers to principals. Minister Liburd stressed the need for ongoing dedication and a willingness to embrace the challenges inherent in education, urging school leaders to find ways to renew their passion and truly “own” their roles in shaping the future generation.

Principal Education Officer, Ms. Londa Brown, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, sharing her vision for the upcoming year and outlining expectations for the summit. She expressed hope that the summit would invigorate and motivate the participants, equipping them to effectively lead their schools through the year ahead. The summit is designed to be a springboard for the academic year, providing an opportunity for principals to collaboratively plan and prepare for the return of students and staff. It allows school leaders to align their strategies with the overall theme and create a roadmap for their respective schools.

The 2025 School Leadership Summit serves as a crucial platform for professional development and collaboration amongst Nevisian educators. It underlines the importance of continuous learning and adaptation within the education system. The chosen theme emphasizes the critical need for educators to reconnect with their core purpose, reignite their passion for teaching, and refresh their practices to effectively meet the evolving needs of students. By focusing on these key areas, the summit aims to empower school leaders to create dynamic and supportive learning environments for all students.

The comprehensive approach taken by the NIA Department of Education, with its focus on leadership development and strategic planning, highlights its commitment to fostering a robust and thriving education system. The summit acts as a vital link between the previous academic year and the new one, facilitating a smooth transition and providing a framework for continued growth and improvement within the educational landscape of Nevis. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and preparation in setting the stage for a successful school year.

Following the summit, teachers and staff are scheduled to officially return to duty on August 25, 2025, commencing with the annual Back-to-School Convocation. Students will return to classrooms on September 1, 2025, marking the official start of the 2025-2026 academic year. School leaders expressed their anticipation for a productive and fulfilling year, emphasizing the importance of purpose, passion, and renewed practices within the education system. They look forward to welcoming students back to a learning environment primed for success.