ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Committee on Education and Workforce Development, chaired by Senator Kurt Vialet, convened at the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall to and voted to hold in committee measures impacting public education in the Virgin Islands. Among the proposals discussed were bills to require the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the Virgin Islands Motto at the start of each school day, to lower the kindergarten entry age from five to four years old, and to mandate a daily morning exercise routine in all public schools. 

Lawmakers voted to hold in committee: Bill No. 36-0067, an Act amending Title 17, Chapter 5 of the Virgin Islands Code by adding Section 41j, which would require the Pledge of Allegiance and the Virgin Islands Motto to be recited at the beginning of each school day in public schools. The measure, sponsored by Senator Alma Francis Heyliger, includes a provision allowing students to opt out of participation.

During the discussion, Senator Vialet cautioned lawmakers to proceed carefully, noting that the Legislature must be mindful of the type of legislation being enacted. He stated that the Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) should create a policy addressing the matter rather than codifying it into law. Similarly, Senator Avery Lewis and other senators acknowledged the positive intent of the bill but maintained that such initiatives should be policy-driven rather than legislatively mandated, even with the inclusion of an opt-out option.

Weighing in on the measure, Virgin Islands Department of Education Commissioner Dr. Dionne Wells-Hedrington expressed the Department’s support for Bill No. 36-0067, noting that it aligns the Virgin Islands with 47 U.S. states that uphold similar practices. However, she emphasized that participation must remain voluntary, citing the 1943 U.S. Supreme Court ruling West Virginia vs. Barnette, which prohibits compelling anyone to recite the pledge or salute the flag. Dr. Wells-Hedrington recommended that the legislation include clear exemptions for students and staff who wish to opt out. She also proposed incorporating The Virgin Islands March into morning school activities to enhance cultural awareness and comply with existing laws requiring instruction in Virgin Islands and Caribbean history. According to VIDE, the initiative can promote unity, civic pride, and cultural identity, while also cautioning that its implementation must be handled sensitively to prevent social pressure or marginalization of those who choose not to participate.

Policymakers voted to hold in committee: Bill No. 36-0069, An Act amending Title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 9, subchapter 1, section 82, subsection (a) by changing the age a child begins kindergarten from five years of age to four years of age. 

The bill sponsor, Senator Heyliger explained that lowering the starting age for kindergarten would help children be better prepared when entering school. She emphasized that providing an earlier educational option allows students to develop foundational learning skills, absorb information more effectively, and begin their academic journey sooner. The measure, she noted, would also motivate parents to ensure their children are fully prepared; including being potty trained before starting school. Offering VIDE’s perspective, Dr. Wells-Hedrington cautioned that research indicates earlier access alone does not guarantee improved outcomes, especially when factors such as readiness, equity, and system capacity are not adequately addressed.

Lastly, senators voted to hold in committee: Bill No. 36-0080, An Act amending Title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 5 mandating a daily morning exercise routine for students in all public schools in the Virgin Islands.  The measure was sponsored by Senator Alma Francis Heyliger. 

Senators present at today’s Committee hearing included Kurt Vialet, Avery L. Lewis, Dwayne M. DeGraff, Novelle E. Francis, Jr., Marise C. James, Kenneth L. Gittens, Franklin D. Johnson, and Carla J. Joseph.

The Division of Public Affairs is committed to providing the community with accurate information on legislative proceedings and other events at the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. Visit legvi.org. 

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Press Contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan

Email: aharrigan@legvi.org