Over 800 Educators Gather to Launch New Academic Year
More than 800 public school educators from across the Cayman Islands gathered on Friday, 22 August for the annual Education Professionals’ Welcome, a celebratory event marking the start of the 2025/26 academic year under the theme Educate, Inspire, Thrive.
Hosted by the Ministry for Education and Training, the event featured remarks from His Excellency, Acting Governor Franz Manderson, Premier André Ebanks, Minister for Education and Training Hon. Rolston Anglin, and keynote speaker Chief Nursing Officer Felicia McLean.
In a powerful address, Minister Anglin reaffirmed the government’s commitment to partnering with educators to strengthen the Cayman Islands’ education system.
“We will work closely with all educators to strengthen our education system—because the system does matter. We must have strategy, targeted interventions, quality teaching and learning, and strong leadership in our schools. The Ministry of Education and Training is committed to working closely with all educators to continue building a system that supports every child.”
Highlighting the critical role educators play in shaping the nation’s future, Minister Anglin added, “We have students from all walks of life. Sitting before you in your classrooms will be future doctors, lawyers, teachers, accountants, and politicians. What you do in the classroom matters. If we truly value education and our educators, then we as a country and community can achieve some of the greatest things together.”
With students returning to classrooms the following week, the event served both as a moment of recognition and a rallying call. Educators were encouraged to embrace the new school year with purpose, professionalism, and pride in the profound impact they have on the lives of young people.
Ms. Cetonya Cacho, Chief Officer for the Ministry of Education and Training, emphasised the vital role educators play in shaping the future of the Cayman Islands. She urged both returning and new educators to support one another and remain mindful of the profound impact they have on their students: “As we embark on this new academic year, I encourage you to support one another and to never lose sight of the influence you have. The work ahead will not always be easy, but it will always be worthwhile because in every lesson taught, in every act of patience, and in every word of encouragement, you are shaping the future of these Cayman Islands.”
Mark Ray, Director for the Department of Education Services shared the outlook for the 2025/26 academic year, emphasising consistency in care, quality and accountability. His presentation highlighted key initiatives, including policy reviews, mentoring for newly qualified teachers, staff training, and personalised learning pathways for students.
Keynote speaker Felicia McLean reflected on the value of education from her journey in healthcare leadership, inspiring attendees with a message of resilience and the importance of nurturing every student’s potential.
Both The Premier and His Excellency, Acting Governor Franz Manderson shared their appreciation and support, reaffirming the government’s commitment to investing in both the people and systems that drive educational success.
As the new academic year begins, the message is clear: by working together, the Cayman Islands can build an education system that not only supports every learner but strengthens the entire community and ensures they maximise their potential.
Watch the 2025 Education Professionals’ Welcome here.
