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Aug. 28, 2007 – Senate Vice-President Senator Shawn-Michael Malone extended a warm welcome back to all teachers, support staff, administrators and, most importantly, students and parents across the territory.
"Another school year has begun and as I said at the start of last school year, take full advantage of the education you will receive. Congratulations! Standardized test sores have improved across the territory once again! Therefore, I encourage you to continue improving your reading, writing, comprehension and speaking skills and become life long students of learning," Malone said to students.
Malone also made sure to address parents, as he believes they are a critical part in the equation to our children's education. "Parents, be the example you want to see in your children and GET INVOLVED! The US Virgin Islands PTSA is asking males to take the proactive step to take children to school on the first day. It is time that the men in our community step up to the plate. We are severely failing our children. Remember, Act 6124 gives all parents and guardians two hours each month to visit schools and keep abreast of their children's progress. Take full advantage to make sure that you are involved in your children's education and your tax dollars are being well spent," Malone said.
"Education is the key to the success of our community and the opportunity is before us to combine our actions with our words. Let all of us, together, make the Virgin Islands a success by getting involved in education! Towards this end, I encourage all students in grades fourth through sixth to join my "Reading to Achieve" Book Club Program. I wish you a blessed and successful school year," Malone concluded.
