Educators from across the U.S. Virgin Islands gathered on St. Croix earlier this month for a dynamic professional development workshop aimed at transforming the way history is taught in the classroom by making it more personal.
Hosted by American Ancestors, the workshop “Genealogy in the Classroom: Bringing History to Life with Family History” took place on April 18 at the University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park. The program highlighted genealogy as a powerful tool for connecting students to history, culture, and geography through their own lived experiences and family stories.
Hosted by American Ancestors, the workshop “Genealogy in the Classroom: Bringing History to Life with Family History” took place on April 18 at the University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park. (Photo by Sophia Aubin, Caribbean Genealogy Library)
By all accounts, the workshop was a strong success. A total of 26 educators participated, including 20 from St. Croix and six from St. Thomas, representing grades four through 12 across social studies, English language arts, and school library programs. The initiative is part of a broader, multiyear effort, with workshops held in 2024, continuing this year, and planned again for 2027.
The program was funded through a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, in partnership with the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, reflecting a broader push to expand humanities education and culturally relevant curricula across the territory. It was presented in collaboration with the Caribbean Genealogy Library and the Virgin Islands Department of Education.
Led by Dustin Axe, School Programs and Curriculum Manager at American Ancestors’ Brue Family Learning Center, the workshop focused on equipping teachers with adaptable strategies rather than traditional content delivery.
“Genealogy offers students a personal entry point into the past,” Axe said. “When students investigate their own family stories, history becomes meaningful, relevant, and deeply engaging.”
Participants explored how to move beyond basic family tree assignments to incorporate deeper historical inquiry, teaching students to ask questions, analyze evidence, and connect personal narratives to larger historical themes. The approach emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and cultural awareness.
Educators participate in a hands-on genealogy activity during the “Genealogy in the Classroom” workshop on St. Croix, where teachers explored ways to incorporate family history into their lessons. (Photo by Sophia Aubin, Caribbean Genealogy Library)
Educators were provided with classroom-ready materials, including lesson plans, case studies, teaching strategies, and research tools. They also received access to genealogy databases and local archival resources, expanding their ability to bring authentic, place-based learning into their classrooms.
A distinguishing feature of the program is its ongoing support. Teachers will continue working with facilitators through one-on-one virtual follow-ups, helping them develop personalized lesson plans and track student outcomes over time.
Organizers say this sustained engagement is key to long-term success, ensuring that the workshop translates into meaningful classroom impact rather than remaining a one-time experience.
Equally important was the collaborative effort behind the initiative. Local partners played a central role in shaping the workshop to reflect the unique history and cultural landscape of the Virgin Islands.
The Virgin Islands Education Department, through its Division of Virgin Islands Cultural Education, helped coordinate teacher recruitment and will continue supporting implementation in schools. Meanwhile, the Caribbean Genealogy Library provided critical access to region-specific historical materials and expertise.
Stephanie Chalana Brown speaks during the “Genealogy in the Classroom” workshop on St. Croix, highlighting strategies for integrating cultural education and genealogy into classroom instruction. (Photo by Sophia Aubin, Caribbean Genealogy Library)
The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands played a pivotal role in securing and managing grant funding, with representatives on site observing the workshop and supporting its continued growth.
That collaboration created what Axe described as a uniquely powerful experience, bringing together educators, historians, and community organizations in a shared mission.
“To see everyone come together from local partners to teachers across islands was incredibly meaningful,” he said. “It’s about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating something sustainable for the future.”
The workshop also addressed real challenges educators face when introducing genealogy in the classroom. Facilitators acknowledged that family history can be sensitive, particularly for students with limited access to information or complex family backgrounds. Teachers were given inclusive strategies to ensure all students can participate in meaningful ways.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with educators showing strong enthusiasm for incorporating genealogy into their teaching. Organizers noted that the Virgin Islands’ deep cultural roots and emphasis on heritage make it an especially receptive environment for this type of learning.
Teachers work together analyzing historical documents during the “Genealogy in the Classroom: Bringing History to Life with Family History” workshop held at the University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park on St. Croix. (Photo by Sophia Aubin, Caribbean Genealogy Library)
The initiative builds on the success of previous workshops in the territory, where teachers reported increased student engagement and more meaningful classroom discussions after introducing family history projects.
With another workshop already planned, organizers hope to continue expanding participation and building a network of educators committed to culturally relevant, inquiry-based teaching.
Beyond lesson plans and resources, the program’s broader goal is to empower teachers – building confidence, encouraging innovation, and helping students see themselves reflected in the broader story of history.
Glennor Lee Smith, of Estate Mon Bijou, passed away on April 17, 2026. She was 82 years old.
Glennor Lee Smith
She was preceded by her mother, Lorretta Braderick-Wallace, and father, Wilbert Wallace.
She is survived by her adopted daughters, Annette Rawlins, Patsy Sweeney, Medisa Rodney; stepchildren, Bernadette Smith, Christine Hodge, Olga Smith; adopted grandchildren, too numerous to mention; adopted sisters, Hyacinth Saddler, Margaret Saddler, Lorna Saddler; adopted brother, Castro Saddler; close family, Challenger and family, Godfrey Simon and family, Mr. Linton Joseph and family, Mr. Rodney Thomas and family; special friends, Mr. and Mrs. Lopez, Pastor Perry, Pastor Anita, and the Victorious Believer’s Church Family, Sister Sutton and family, Agriculture Market Family, Pastor Grey and the New Testament Church; precious friends and other relatives too numerous to mention.
Funeral service will be held on May 5 at Victorious Believer’s Church, #15 Peters Rest, St. Croix, VI 00824. Viewing begins at 9 a.m., with service at 10 a.m. Interment will be held at Kingshill Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Stephen “Tex” Glasgow, a good father, an accomplished businessman, a respected community leader, and a visionary co-founder of an organization. He departed this life on April 11, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, leadership, and dedication to those he loved and served.
Stephen Glasgow
Stephen was the foundation of strength for his family, along with his wife, Aldeen Glasgow (Deceased), who, together for over 60 years, raised four children and two stepsons. As a father, he provided guidance, love, and steadfast support, shaping his children’s lives with strength and purpose.
In his professional life, as the owner of Tex Welding Services, he distinguished himself as a successful businessman whose work ethic, innovation, and commitment to excellence earned him the respect of colleagues and peers alike. As a co-founder of Mothers and Fathers Group of the Virgin Islands, he created opportunities centered around family activities that brought people together, inspired change, and made a lasting impact on the community he so deeply cared about.
He is survived by his four children, Sharon Glasgow-Cob, Lennox Glasgow, Gerard Glasgow, and Gail Glasgow; stepsons, Ricaldo Swift and Rick Warner; grandchildren, Jamarl Cobb, Kareem Cobb, Latifah Glasgow, Leneisha Glasgow, Damara Glasgow, Chance Glasgow, Derrick Dormer, Miasia Glasgow, Malcom Glasgow, Davon Glasgow, Blake Glasgow, Kylany Anduze, Kyarra Anduze, Tanya Warner, Makeda Warner, Ayana Warner, Leah Warner, Isaiah Warner, Amirah Warner;great-grand children, Apryl Johnston, Alayna Johnston, Laylani Anduze, Jhavon Cobb, Jaelen Cobb, Jordan Cobb, Sade Cobb, Jamari Cobb, Sade Dormer, Sanai Anderson, Damian Anderson, Damani Anderson, Soleil Osorio-Cruz, Daman Glasgow, Nasir Glasgow, Nina Glasgow, and Mahogany Glasgow; a host of extended family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched.
A celebration of his life will be held, with a family and friends viewing on May 6th from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the James Memorial Funeral Home Inc. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, leadership, and service will forever remain in our hearts.
Services will be on May 7 at the Original Pentecostal Church in Kingshill. Viewing at 10 a.m. and service at 11 a.m. Interment at Kingshill Cemetery.
Professional arrangements entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.
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Qualified residential and commercial water customers who let WAPA come test their pipes for lead and copper will get a $50 water account credit. (Source photo by Mat Probasco)
Dozens of St. Croix residents could get $50 toward their water bill, the Water and Power Authority announced this week.
Qualified residential and commercial water customers who let WAPA come test their pipes for lead and copper will get a $50 water account credit, WAPA officials said. The sign-up deadline is May 31.
The Lead and Copper Testing Program is a routine requirement of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency designed to ensure the continued safety and quality of drinking water. That doesn’t mean it’s without adventure, however.
“WAPA also acknowledges that in previous years, initial test results led to concern within the community. While the situation was resolved, the authority understands the concern it caused and remains committed to transparency, accuracy, and maintaining public trust through consistent monitoring and clear communication,” WAPA said in a press release this week.
WAPA crews completed testing St. Thomas and St. John water earlier this year, the release said.
“Out of the huts of history’s shame
I rise
Up from a past that’s rooted in pain
I rise
I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide,
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.
Leaving behind nights of terror and fear
I rise
Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear
I rise”
Whether or not the exhibit that opened April 23 at Fort Frederik Museum was inspired by the iconic Maya Angelou poem “Still I Rise,” “Still We Rise: Art Behind the Walls” clearly expressed themes that Angelou celebrates in her poem: the indomitable resiliency of the human spirit and its capacity to triumph over adversity.
Artwork on display at the exhibit. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)
Taken as a whole, the exhibit’s vivid display of bright colors and playful designs conveyed a sense of quirky, multilayered creativity at work, celebrating the grace and inherent beauty of our living world. Bright flowers blossom from the branches of deeply rooted trees, calabash gourds glow with vivid pointillistic strokes, and technicolored butterflies abound. The exhibit showcased the artwork of a group of incarcerated men and women who are participating in a volunteer-led creative literacy and art program.
Artwork on display at the exhibit. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)Artwork on display at the exhibit. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)
Much has been written about the link between illiteracy and incarceration in the United States, and what started as a volunteer literacy program at the John A. Bell Correctional Facility has blossomed into an arts program that has shown remarkable rehabilitative promise. The program’s directors, Mary Mingus and Sally Rodriguez, initially volunteered at the prison to help inmates improve their reading and math skills. Speaking at the opening reception, Rodriguez explained that in the course of implementing the literacy program, “one Friday we decided to have a ‘fun day’ and we gave them paints and canvas and from there it just evolved into this,” she said, gesturing toward the room that houses the exhibit and brims with the inmates’ brightly colored creations.
DPNR Territorial Art Curator Monica Marin and Art Behind the Walls Program Director Mary Mingus. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)
In her introductory remarks, Mingus described the familial sense that has evolved among the group over the course of the program and explained how surprised and proud the participating inmates were upon discovering latent talents they had no idea they possessed. Many had never even picked up a paintbrush before. The program, it seems, taught them not to narrowly define themselves based on their incarceration. “They’re learning that they are more than the worst thing they ever did, and that there is so much more to them. They are growing and rehabilitating,” Mingus said.
As much as the prisoners seem to benefit from the program, the directors seem to get back as much as they give. “Sally and I find this work incredibly rewarding, and we look forward to going every time we meet.” Every Wednesday and Friday when they do meet, explained Rodriguez, “the participants proudly come and show us what they’ve been working on and the progress they’ve made.”
Artwork on display at the exhibit. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)
In addition to the animated paintings that line the walls, several displays drew one’s attention to another unique feature of the exhibit: the use of locally sourced calabash gourds as an artistic medium. The gourds, a Department of Planning and Natural Resources press release explained, “have been transformed into compelling works of art that reflect the cultural heritage of St. Croix while giving voice to each artist’s individual story.” As a symbol of African heritage, the calabash has enjoyed a longstanding and multivalent role inspiring the Crucian imagination and functioning as a medium for expressing the relationship between the Crucian people and their landscape. Among the many ways the calabash has found its way into Crucian art and folklore, the gourd’s shape and design made it ideal for instrument making during the colonial period of the Danish West Indies. In the hands of and filtered through the unique sensibilities of the inmates participating in this program, the calabash gourds have been fashioned into brightly painted ornaments, bowls, and bird feeders.
Calabash art on display at the exhibit. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)Artwork on display at the exhibit. (Photo by Joshua G. Canning)
The dazzling, imaginative flight paths of the diversely colored butterflies featured in the exhibit suggest the ways in which, through the mysterious medium of art, this program has enabled its participants to transcend the circumstances of their incarceration. As a newly winged butterfly rises from its chrysalis and triumphantly takes to the air, so has the spirit of the artist in each of these men and women discovered wings and taken flight, rising from behind the prison walls and into the same air that we all share.
Anyone interested in viewing the exhibit can do so Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the museum. Admission is $10 for adults, while students under 18 are free. For more information, please contact monica.marin@dpnr.vi.gov.
It is with profound sadness that we share the peaceful passing of our beloved Richard Augustus Schrader Sr. on April 9 at the age of 90. A Virgin Islands culture bearer, father, husband, scholar, mentor, author, historian, Veteran, and a man of unwavering faith.
Richard Augustus Schrader Sr.
He was preceded in death by his parents Hezekiah Schrader and Veronica Allick; his siblings, Donald Ross, Edith Schrader Archibald, Joseph Schrader, Ann Schrader, and Elvina Schrader Harris; his daughter-in-law, Valerie Schrader; his nieces, Yvonne Muckle Christian, Magnolia Glitten Williams and Marcia Archibald Reid; and his nephews, Lew Muckle, Elroy Ross, Jonathan Ross and Alphonso Ross.
He is survived by his wife, Claudette Schrader his children, Lenore Schrader, Richard Schrader Jr., Patricia Schrader-Cooke, Joseph Schrader, and Dr. Claudia Schrader; sons-in-Law, Kirk Francis and Vincent Doward; sister, Teresa Goodridge; sister-in-law, Janice Hewitt Schrader; grandchildren, Ayinde Gomez, Ababa Isabie Gomez, Ama Gomez, Abimbola Gomez, Michaela Cooke, Ashley Schrader, Alexis Schrader, and Adrianne Schrader; great grandchildren, Sumyah Armstrong, Safiya Smith, Yami Salis Jameson, Basshemaqua Delsol, Marsa Hefenti Stapleton, Romero Mason Ross, and Azim Gomez; nieces, Rita McIntosh, Joyce Archibald-Hodge, Debra Clarke, Carron “Tracy” Goodridge Anderson, and Sharon Goodridge Bryant; nephews, Lloyd Archibald Jr., Ray “Butch” Goodridge, Mitchell Lawrence, Dale Ross, and Jackie Ross; great-nieces, Arlene McIntosh, Sha’Von Hodge, Nikia Curtis, Jade Reid, Liah Reid, Tyla Anderson, Yvette Lawrence, Taylor Goodridge, Angie Muckle, Cyd Christian Smith, Jasmin Frett-Hodge, Kenya Frett-Rowe, Keema Frett-Newsome, Khaliah Frett-Teal, Dehlia Ross, Kamilah Ross, Jacklyn Ross, Kila Carter, Latasha Ross and Jasmine Ross; great nephews, Le Shaun Hodge, Dean McIntosh, Quron Clarke, Walter Alexander Bryant, Michael Lawrence, Jamel Ross, Kareem Ross, Lydelle Browne, Charles Ross, Terrell Ross, Elroy Ross Jr, Delroy Ross, Antoine Mondesire and Reginald Spencer; special cousins, Sylvan Charles, Valberg Allick Krauser, and Gwendolyn Allick Frorup; special friends and relatives, The Allick Family, The Samuel Family, The Francis Family, The Ross Family, The Farrelly Family, The Archibald Family, The Williams Family, The Byron Family, The Powell Family, The Drummond Family, The Bermudez Family, The Soto Family, The Johannes Family, The Hector Family, The Calquohoun Community, Yvonne Hunt Liburd and Family, Jeanette Springle and Family, Ezra Nanton and Family, Hollis McIntosh, Gretta Schrader, Sonia Neale and Family, Chester Williams and Family, Tyrone Hazelwood (Doc), Leroy Cooke and Family, Alma Roberts and Family, Janice Schrader and Family, Col. Carolyn Fawkes and Family, The Virgin Islands National Guard, St. Ann’s Parish Community, American Legionnaire’s Post VI133 and countless other family and friends that he loved dearly.
The funeral services will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, with the viewing at 9 am and the services at 10 am. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. Attendees are asked to wear shades of blue in celebration of his life and legacy.
The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority is excited to announce a new partnership with RePlastic Recycle that will introduce plastic recycling services to Peter’s Rest Convenience Center beginning Monday, April 27. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in VIWMA’s commitment to expanding recycling opportunities and reducing the volume of waste entering the territory’s landfills.
Plastics recycling (Shutterstock image)
Through this partnership, residents will now be able to drop off clean plastics #1, #2, and #5 at a designated RePlastic Recycle station located within the existing household trash disposal area at Peter’s Rest Convenience Center. The service will operate Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with trained RePlastic Recycle attendants on-site to guide residents in proper preparation and sorting—making recycling easier, clearer, and more accessible for every household.
This initiative directly supports VIWMA’s long-term strategy to increase diversion of recyclable materials, extend the lifespan of the territory’s landfills, promote responsible resource recovery, and strengthen a culture of environmental stewardship across the U.S. Virgin Islands. By expanding convenient recycling options, VIWMA continues to promote the vision of a modern, sustainable, and community-centered waste management system.
“We are committed to providing residents with more accessible and environmentally responsible options for managing waste,” said Executive Director Hannibal “Mike” Ware of the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority. “This partnership with RePlastic Recycle strengthens our shared mission to protect our islands, reduce plastic pollution, and support a cleaner, healthier Virgin Islands for generations to come.”
For more information, contact us at customer_care@viwma.org or communications@viwma.org, or call 340‑715‑9100 for St. Thomas or 340‑712‑4962 for St. Croix. Stay connected with VIWMA on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn for updates.
The Department of Public Works reminds the public of the upcoming road closure on Spring Gut Road in St. Croix to facilitate temporary repairs to the Spring Gut Bridge.
Beginning Saturday, April 25, DPW contractor – Marco St. Croix, Inc. – will begin repairs to the bridge and approaching roadway. Work will continue through Thursday, April 30. During this time, the bridge will be closed to all vehicular traffic.
Motorists needing access to Tulipan Mount Welcome south of the bridge should use designated detour routes via Catherine’s Rest Road (Route 83) and Bugby Hole Road (Route 622). Detour signage will be posted throughout the Bugby Hole subdivision to guide motorist via Bay Point, Haven Court, Diamond View, and Summit Crest Roads. Seemap for details.
The Department of Public Works acknowledges the inconvenience to Tulipan Mount Welcome residents and appreciates the public’s patience as these necessary repairs are completed.
Beginning Saturday, April 25, DPW contractor – Marco St. Croix, Inc. – will begin repairs to the bridge and approaching roadway. Work will continue through Thursday, April 30. During this time, the bridge will be closed to all vehicular traffic.
Motorists needing access to Tulipan Mount Welcome south of the bridge should use designated detour routes via Catherine’s Rest Road (Route 83) and Bugby Hole Road (Route 622). Detour signage will be posted throughout the Bugby Hole subdivision to guide motorist via Bay Point, Haven Court, Diamond View, and Summit Crest Roads. Seemap for details.
The Department of Public Works acknowledges the inconvenience to Tulipan Mount Welcome residents and appreciates the public’s patience as these necessary repairs are completed. 
