PHILIPSBURG — As students across Sint Maarten return to the classroom for the new academic year, Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina is calling on the entire country to recognize that the responsibility for their success extends far beyond the school gates.
“The first lesson our children receive this school year will not come from a textbook,” Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina stated. “It will come from us which from the patience of a driver near our schools, the encouragement of a teacher, the sacrifice of a parent, the leadership of a principal, and the decisions we make as a Government. Before a child opens a book, we must open the way.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that the beginning of the school year should not be treated merely as a return to routine, but as a renewal of Sint Maarten’s national commitment to its children.
“Education is not the quiet work taking place inside a collection of buildings. It is the clearest statement a country makes about the future it intends to create,” the Prime Minister said. “Every classroom holds future leaders, innovators, caregivers, entrepreneurs, public servants and nation-builders. What we invest in them today will determine the strength and character of Sint Maarten tomorrow.”
Prime Minister Mercelina encouraged students to enter the new school year with confidence, discipline and curiosity, reminding them that their present circumstances do not determine the limits of their future.
“To every student: you are returning to school for more than grades, examinations or promotion to another class. You are returning to discover what you are capable of becoming,” the Prime Minister said. “There may be subjects that challenge you and days when progress feels difficult. Do not allow one difficult day, one mistake or one disappointing result to become the definition of your life. Ask for help, remain focused and keep moving forward.”
The Prime Minister also extended special appreciation to the teachers, school managers, administrative personnel, counsellors, bus drivers, security officers, cleaners and other professionals whose work makes education possible each day.
“Our educators are entrusted with far more than the delivery of lessons. They help children recognize their worth, develop their voices and imagine possibilities they may not yet see for themselves,” he stated. “Their contribution cannot be measured only by what is written on a report card. It can also be found in the confidence of a child who finally understands, participates or begins to believe.”
Parents and guardians were encouraged to remain actively engaged throughout the academic year by establishing routines, communicating with schools and creating an environment in which children feel supported and accountable.
Prime Minister Mercelina further appealed to motorists to reduce their speed, remain attentive near schools and school buses, and exercise additional patience as traffic increases.
“A child arriving safely at school is more important than any appointment, deadline or moment of impatience,” he said. “The few seconds we save by speeding can never outweigh the value of a young life.”
The Prime Minister concluded by urging the community to ensure that no student feels invisible or alone during the school year.
“The strength of our education system will not be measured only by how far our highest-performing students rise, but also by how firmly we stand beside the child who is struggling,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated. “When every child knows that someone believes in them, education becomes more than preparation for life, it becomes the place where a new life becomes possible.”
Prime Minister Mercelina wished all students, educators, parents and school communities a safe, productive and inspiring academic year.
