Today, the Minister of Education, Senator, the Hon. Crystal Caesar, JP, reiterated the Government's commitment to education transformation and to maintaining open communication with school communities. Minister Caesar stated, “There is no announcement planned for Friday. None was ever scheduled. Engagement with internal stakeholders will continue as we progress toward a two-tier school system.”
“Education transformation is not a single event; it is a journey that requires honesty, flexibility, and a clear focus on what matters most: student success, family stability, and confidence in our educators. In September 2025, in my Ministerial Statement at the start of the 2025/26 school year, I reaffirmed the Government’s firm commitment to stabilising and transforming Bermuda’s public education system. At that time, I was clear that education transformation is not merely aspirational; it is an active commitment, with tangible actions already underway to move away from a three-tier to a two-tier school system.
“Over the past several years, the Government of Bermuda has undertaken one of the most ambitious efforts in our history to re-imagine public education. This work has affected all levels of the system, including middle school transformation, the Department of Education, and the Ministry Headquarters. While complex, it has progressed through careful planning, coordination, and close collaboration with key partner Ministries, including Public Works, Finance, Health, Youth, Social Development, and Seniors. Public education is a shared responsibility, and meaningful change requires collective effort.
“Throughout this process, we have listened to parents, teachers, principals, unions, and students; examined data; tested models; and learned important lessons about what is working, what requires adjustment, and what must be strengthened.
“As of January 2026:
- The Ministry and Department are continuing to move towards a two-tier system.
- Signature Learning Programme is continuing.
- Four Parish Primary schools are operational.
- The Code of Conduct has been revised and is operational.
- Third Story completed their contract in December 2025. The government now has the data, models, and lessons needed to move forward independently. This is Bermudian ownership of the next phase.
- Work has commenced with the Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy Transformation team.
“Our key priorities are: improving literacy and numeracy; strengthening teaching and learning; supporting student wellbeing; and ensuring stable, safe, and inclusive school environments. As we move forward, we remain focused on system stability and classroom-based improvements that directly benefit students.
“Decisions will continue to be informed by evidence, infrastructure needs, and ongoing feedback from parents, teachers, staff, administrators, and unions. While decisions will be made internally in collaboration with stakeholders, the public will be kept informed through formal updates. There is no announcement planned for Friday. None was ever scheduled. Engagement with internal stakeholders will continue as we progress toward a two-tier school system.
“Change on this scale is complex, but our commitment is simple: to build a public education system that prepares every child in Bermuda for opportunity, purpose, and success.”