Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Education has begun consultations with parents and stakeholders as it moves forward with plans to merge Glanvilles and Pares Secondary Schools ahead of the new academic year.
At a packed town hall meeting on Monday, Education Minister Daryll Matthew and senior ministry officials sought to address concerns about the transition.
Director of Education Clare Browne assured attendees that the process will be smooth, and that the facilities at Pares Secondary—where students from Glanvilles will be accommodated—will be improved before the school year begins in September.
The merger follows a Cabinet-endorsed recommendation made in June, prompted by declining enrolment figures. Glanvilles currently has 163 students and Pares 178, numbers officials say have led to underused classrooms and limited subject offerings.
Some parents, however, have criticised the Ministry for making key decisions before engaging in public consultation.
Dr Jonah Greene, who presented the merger proposal to Cabinet, said staff would be reassigned or retained within the education system. He added that the move would not disrupt students or teaching staff.
The now-vacant Glanvilles Secondary will be repurposed as the new School of Agriculture, in line with the government’s push to improve food security and expand agricultural training.
The facility already houses a science lab, home economics department, hydroponic unit, farm plots, and animal pens.
Assessment teams are currently reviewing both campuses to ensure all necessary upgrades are completed in time for the September reopening.