Joseph A. Gomez School News
![Important Announcement]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1773435659/videvi/rqmbo9gdc0zwmke38fxs/650445731_1375255877966166_5104645868300926817_n.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1773435659/videvi/rqmbo9gdc0zwmke38fxs/650445731_1375255877966166_5104645868300926817_n.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1773435659/videvi/rqmbo9gdc0zwmke38fxs/650445731_1375255877966166_5104645868300926817_n.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1773435659/videvi/rqmbo9gdc0zwmke38fxs/650445731_1375255877966166_5104645868300926817_n.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1773435659/videvi/rqmbo9gdc0zwmke38fxs/650445731_1375255877966166_5104645868300926817_n.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1773435659/videvi/rqmbo9gdc0zwmke38fxs/650445731_1375255877966166_5104645868300926817_n.jpg","width":2000}])
Due to unpredictable weather conditions, operational changes can occur. Weather will be monitored closely throughout the day.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) advises the public that following the 6:00 a.m. weather update from the National Weather Service, all public schools will open on their regular schedule today, Monday, April 13, 2026.
The Department has closely monitored weather conditions impacting the Territory and, based on the latest updates and recommendations, it has been determined that public schools can open for normal operations. Weather patterns and shifts can occur throughout the day. VIDE will remain vigilant in the event that operational changes are needed. At this time, the decision has been made to have public schools open on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Due to unpredictable weather conditions, operational changes can occur. Weather will be monitored closely throughout the day.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) advises the public that following the 6:00 a.m. weather update from the National Weather Service, all public schools will open on their regular schedule today, Monday, April 13, 2026.
The Department has closely monitored weather conditions impacting the Territory and, based on the latest updates and recommendations, it has been determined that public schools can open for normal operations. Weather patterns and shifts can occur throughout the day. VIDE will remain vigilant in the event that operational changes are needed. At this time, the decision has been made to have public schools open on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Important Reminder:Exercise caution during travel.
Be mindful of localized weather conditions.
Updates will be issued as needed by the VIDE, follow official platforms for accurate information.
Operational changes can occur depending on weather conditions.
The State Director of Special Education, Ms. Kathleen Merchant, announces that copies of the Special Education FFY 2026 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B Federal Grant Application are available for public review in both school districts for a period of 60 days.
Public comments will be accepted up to 30 days after the close of the public review period. Comments may be submitted to the State Director of Special Education via email at kathleen.merchant@vide.vi, or delivered in person to one of the following locations between March 16 and May 20, 2026:
- Frostco Building, First floor, St. Thomas
- State Office of Special Education, Main Education Complex, Hospital Street, St. Croix
The State Director of Special Education, Ms. Kathleen Merchant, announces that copies of the Special Education FFY 2026 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B Federal Grant Application are available for public review in both school districts for a period of 60 days.
Public comments will be accepted up to 30 days after the close of the public review period. Comments may be submitted to the State Director of Special Education via email at kathleen.merchant@vide.vi, or delivered in person to one of the following locations between March 16 and May 20, 2026:
- Frostco Building, First floor, St. Thomas
- State Office of Special Education, Main Education Complex, Hospital Street, St. Croix
Copies of the grant application, which includes a tentative State budget, may also be reviewed at the following locations:
- Offices of Special Education (State and District)
- Offices of the Superintendent of Schools both districts
- Offices of the Commissioner of Education in both districts
- University of the Virgin Islands campuses
- Charles W. Turnbull Regional Library, St. Thomas
- Florence Williams Public Library, Christiansted, St. Croix
- Julius E. Sprauve School, St. John
A copy of the application is also available on the Department’s website at www.vide.vi. Select the menu tab, then divisions, and choose special education.
For additional information, please contact the State Office of Special Education at (340) 773-1095 extension 7087 or (340) 774-0100 extension 8802.
![St. Thomas St. John 2026 Graduation Promotion Schedule]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1771964857/videvi/kdctddsj5lzegcgraxvz/STTJDistrict-2026GraduationandPromotionScheduleweb.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1771964857/videvi/kdctddsj5lzegcgraxvz/STTJDistrict-2026GraduationandPromotionScheduleweb.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1771964857/videvi/kdctddsj5lzegcgraxvz/STTJDistrict-2026GraduationandPromotionScheduleweb.png","width":790}])
The Virgin Islands Department of Education Announces the Graduation and Promotional Season: Save the Date! The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is pleased to announce the upcoming graduation and promotional ceremonies for the St. Thomas-St. John District and the St. Croix Districts.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education Announces the Graduation and Promotional Season: Save the Date! The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is pleased to announce the upcoming graduation and promotional ceremonies for the St. Thomas-St. John District and the St. Croix Districts.
![Stay informed]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758212061/videvi/dbazneghugcpkq0wev0f/STAYINFORMEDVIDEPLATFORMS.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758212061/videvi/dbazneghugcpkq0wev0f/STAYINFORMEDVIDEPLATFORMS.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1758212061/videvi/dbazneghugcpkq0wev0f/STAYINFORMEDVIDEPLATFORMS.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1758212061/videvi/dbazneghugcpkq0wev0f/STAYINFORMEDVIDEPLATFORMS.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758212061/videvi/dbazneghugcpkq0wev0f/STAYINFORMEDVIDEPLATFORMS.jpg","width":1414}])
VIDE provides information to the media and across its official platforms. However, as conditions change, updates may also change. For the most reliable information, parents and guardians should always check the official VIDE Facebook page and other official communication channels first.
Stay Connected ~ Stay Informed to ONLY OFFICIAL VIDE PLATFORMS
Stay connected through official VIDE channels. Follow and subscribe to our official communication platforms.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is reminding parents, guardians, and the wider community that only announcements issued directly by VIDE should be considered official. Increasingly, falsified information has been shared through various Facebook groups, WhatsApp messages, and other unofficial sources, often with the intent of creating confusion.
When dealing with unpredictable matters such as changing weather conditions, electrical service interruptions, or even false threats against schools, VIDE makes decisions in consultation with its official partners, including the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA), the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA), the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD), and Government House, among other entities. This process requires ensuring that accurate information is received first before it can be distributed. We recognize that immediate information is desired. Timely information is also a priority for VIDE. As decisions are made, the information is shared with the public.
Because these situations are fluid, unpredictable, and ever-changing, decisions may be adjusted as new information becomes available. For example, a decision to keep schools open may later be revised if conditions worsen, if electrical service is interrupted for an extended period, if on-campus assessments reveal safety concerns, or if a decision is made by the Executive Branch of Government.
VIDE recognizes the inconvenience that school closures may cause, particularly when government offices remain open. The Department does not take these decisions lightly, as every effort is made to protect instructional time while ensuring the safety of students, faculty, and staff.
We understand how frustrating last-minute changes can be for parents, guardians, and even students. VIDE appreciates the patience and understanding of its stakeholders. We ask for continued understanding as the dynamic nature of these situations sometimes requires adjustments to be made quickly.
VIDE strongly urges families to:
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Rely only on official VIDE platforms for accurate updates.
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Avoid following unofficial social media pages or chats that circulate misinformation.
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Exercise personal parental discretion when making decisions for your child, based on your own circumstances and comfort level.
VIDE provides information to the media and across its official platforms. However, as conditions change, updates may also change. For the most reliable information, parents and guardians should always check the official VIDE Facebook page and other official communication channels first.
Stay Connected ~ Stay Informed to ONLY OFFICIAL VIDE PLATFORMS
Stay connected through official VIDE channels. Follow and subscribe to our official communication platforms.
Registering is quick and easy: simply visit www.vide.vi/stayconnected and sign up today!
![Holiday Concert Series Thumbnail]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1765313392/videvi/qwep4qb6yht71ghpnhtu/HolidayConcertSeriesWebBanner_1x1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1765313392/videvi/qwep4qb6yht71ghpnhtu/HolidayConcertSeriesWebBanner_1x1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1765313392/videvi/qwep4qb6yht71ghpnhtu/HolidayConcertSeriesWebBanner_1x1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1765313392/videvi/qwep4qb6yht71ghpnhtu/HolidayConcertSeriesWebBanner_1x1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1765313392/videvi/qwep4qb6yht71ghpnhtu/HolidayConcertSeriesWebBanner_1x1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1765313392/videvi/qwep4qb6yht71ghpnhtu/HolidayConcertSeriesWebBanner_1x1.jpg","width":1991}])
The holidays are here and our talented students are ready to fill the Virgin Islands with the magic of music!
Public schools throughout the Territory will be hosting incredible holiday concerts featuring our music students and extraordinary educators. From classic carols to lively cultural selections, steel pan, band, orchestra, and choir arrangements you won’t want to miss these joyful celebrations of the season.
This is the perfect time to support our children, cheer on their hard work, and enjoy unforgettable performances that showcase the spirit of the Virgin Islands.
Let’s pack the seats!
Let’s celebrate our students!
Let’s get into the holiday spirit — together!
We encourage the entire community to attend: families, friends, alumni, partners, and supporters. Bring your holiday joy and join us for a concert… or attend them all!