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VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFICE OF DISASTER RECOVERY Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority S “XZ. Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority 14A & 14C Strand Street “4 8000 Nisky Center Suite 1 Frederiksted, VI 00840 } St. Thomas, VI 00802 Phone (340)202-1221 Wo\s Phone (340)202-1221 A Message from the V.I. Office of Disaster Recovery The Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services on this momentous occasion of constructing a new Head Start facility dedicated to fostering the early educational journey of St. John’s children. The Office of Disaster Recovery’s mission is to create a safe and resilient community by strengthening the Territory's infrastructure through strategic planning, collaboration, and dedicated project execution is embodied in this endeavor. This educational facility stands as a symbol of our commitment to transform and reinforce the Territory's capacity to serve its communities effectively. Such construction projects, especially on St. John. require not only technical expertise but also robust partnerships, precision, and determination. This Head Start facility, designed to support the education and growth of St. John’s youngest learners, was made possible by the generous support and recognition of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Head Start. A total of $42 million in federal funds was received by the Territory to restore Head Start facilities post-Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Of this amount, $5.1 million has been utilized on this project to enhance educational opportunities and positively shape the future for the residents of St. John. This collaborative effort showcases the very essence of recovery work. It is the collective determination of “building a resilient Virgin Islands” that empowers our communities and will do so for generations to come. Congratulations once again to the Department of Human Services and thank you to everyone involved for your tireless dedication and commitment to building a brighter future for our children and our Territory. ien “Building a Legacy of Resilience” Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Office of the Commissioner On behalf of the Department of Human Services, it is my distinct honor to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the grand opening of the Cruz Bay, St. John Head Start facility. This new beginning is a shining example of our collective efforts to create a brighter and more promising future for the children of our territory. The establishment of this Head Start facility in Cruz Bay stands as a testament ——EEEE— to the unwavering commitment of the Office of Head Start, DHS, the Bryan- Averil E. George Roach Administration, community leaders, parents, educators, and all those Commissioner who worked together to make this day possible. This moment marks a VIDHS significant step forward in ensuring that every child in St. John has the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing, supportive, and enriching environment. Early childhood education is the bedrock upon which we build a thriving society, and this Head Start center reflects our dedication to providing the best possible start for our youngest learners. With this new facility, we continue to affirm our belief that every child, no matter their circumstance, deserves access to high-quality education and resources that will set them on the path to lifelong success. To our Head Start Teachers, Staff, Head Start Administrator, Assistant Commissioner Carla Benjamin, and all who have contributed tirelessly to this achievement, I express my deepest gratitude for your passion, hard work, and dedication to shaping the minds of our future leaders. I would also like to thank the Office of Disaster Recovery, the Department of Public Works, the Department of Property and Procurement,other supporting staff and agencies, and of course, J Benton Construction LLC who played a key role and did an amazing job in bringing this project to fruition. Your collective efforts have been instrumental in making today’s celebration possible. To the parents, thank you for placing your trust in this program and investing in your children’s bright future. And to the children who will fill these classrooms with curiosity and joy, we look forward to watching you grow, learn, and achieve great things. The Cruz Bay Head Start is more than just a building—it is a symbol of hope, progress, and the boundless potential that lies within our community. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter, stronger St. John, one child at a time. Congratulations on this wonderful achievement, and may this facility continue to inspire and uplift future generations. Warmest Regards, Averil E. George Commissioner of Human Services Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands Knud Hansen Complex STE | * 1303 Hospital Ground * St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802-6722 » (340) 774-1166 3012 Golden Rock * Christiansted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands 00820 « (340) 718-2980 SUZ Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES lature of the Virgi _. _ Office of the Commissioner _—- ats ae Health, Hospitals & ee! ae Homeland Sec., Justice & Public Safety MEMBER : November 6, 2024 From the Office of Budget, Appropriation & Finance The Honorable Senator Housing, Transportation & Telecommunications | : RAY FONSECA Gov't Operations & Consumer Affairs rom the Office of the Assistant Commissioner and 4 a I nner canner crn area ; on behalf of a_ thankful community, I extend i a October 15, 2024 : heartfelt gratitude to each of you whose ; 3 The Honorable Averil George Bee eee See unwavering support and dedication has brought this new Cruz Bay Head 3 Commissioner, Start Center to fruition. The site before you demonstrates the power of Department of Human Services collaboration, resilience, and a shared commitment to serving our 3012 Golden Rock community's youngest members. St. Croix, 00820 ; ; . ; ; RE: Congratulation Letter- New Head Start Development for St. John After seven long years without these essential services, the opening of this new facility marks a profound moment for us all. The return of the Head Start Dear Commissioner George: Center will not only restore early learning and developmental opportunities for our children but will also provide a foundation of support for families who The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services is to be applauded for the successful effort d d } ral to establish a Head Start Center in Cruz Bay, St. John. Not only is this critical advantage for pCR an ERESE Dy resauireee. children expanded for the residents of St. John, but it also enhances the prospects for excellent student achievement during their regular academic careers. We recognize the immense work that went into every step of this journey—from planning and design to construction and completion. We now have a beautiful, state-of-the-art center that will serve as a safe and nurturing environment for children and families, as well as a much-needed hardened space in times of Given the documented advantages of early education opportunities, all Virgin Islanders should be encouraged by this development, brought about by the hard work and determination of the Commissioner and staff of the Department of Human Services. disaster. We are excited to see the positive impact this center will have for As Chairman of the Legislature’s Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services, I am years to come, creating lasting benefits for our community. extremely pleased with this achievement. It is with a sense of great satisfaction that I join in thanking and congratulating all who have helped to advance our progress in educational development. The entire Virgin Islands community will benefit for years to come from this We extend our deepest appreciation to the Administration for Children and needed Head Start for future generations of the children of St. John. Families, Office of Head Start, the Bryan-Roach Administration, our local government and nongovernmental stakeholders and Team DHS for your partnership and for believing in the importance of this project. We look forward to continuing our work together to support and uplift the families and se children who will benefit from this facility. — With sincerest appreciation, Senator, 35" Legislature of the Virgin Islands Sincerely, Knud Hansen Complex STE 1 * 1303 Hospital Ground ¢ St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802-6722 * (340) 774-1166 Accountability, Transparency and Experience 3012 Golden Rock ¢ Christiansted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands 00820 » (340) 718-2980 SENATOR NOVELLE E. FRANCIS, JR. 35TH LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS PRESIDENT Message from the Senate President On behalf of the members of the 35" Legislature, it is my distinct honor to congratulate Department of Human Services Commissioner Averil George and her team on this occasion of the ribbon cutting of the Head Start facility in Cruz Bay, St. John. Thank you for your commitment to the early education of the youngest residents of St. John. I commend the Department of Human Service and the Office of Disaster Recovery for bringing this project to fruition. This Head Start is more than a facility — it is a significant investment in our children’s futures. The thought and effort that has gone into this new facility is clearly intended to support how children will learn and grow, ultimately contributing to their educational success. Education can change the direction of a child’s life, and this Head Start is a symbol of our collective commitment to lift these children and their families towards brighter tomorrows. By providing welcoming classrooms, exciting play areas and a community space, the Department of Human Services has created an institution that will benefit and serve St. Johnians now and in the future. I look forward to seeing our young learners thrive at this Head Start and be provided with the tools needed to successfully transition into kindergarten. My congratulations to all on this accomplishment. Sincerely, ofan x Novelle E. Francis, Jr. Senate President, 35" Legislature of the Virgin Islands read INVESTMENT AND IMPACT The Cruz Bay facility is one of six new Head Start centers under construction across the territory, representing a $42 million investment from the federal Office of Head Start Disaster Recovery Funds. This investment is part of a broader vision to strengthen our community by prioritizing the education and well-being of our youngest residents, building resilience and opportunity from the ground up Early childhood education is the foundation of a successful society. By providing modern, safe, and supportive learning environments, we are ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the tools they need to excel academically and socially. This facility in Cruz Bay will stand as a beacon of hope © and opportunity, serving generations of Virgin Islanders.” . Head Start MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS 2 07/09/24 CONCORDIA HEAD START FACILITY 07/09/24 ANNA'S HOPE HEAD START ADMINISTRATION BLDG. 07/11/24 MINETTA MITCHEL HEAD START FACILITY x Re eae oe $42M DISASTER RECOVERY FUNDING 07/11/24 CRUZ BAY HEAD START FACILITY - oe ve 07/11/24 BOLONGO HEAD START FACILITY. 07/11/24 LINDBERGH HEAD START FACILITY. wy, ae 2059 RAYBURN BUILDING STACEY E. PLASKETT VIRGIN ISLANDS WASHINGTON, OC 20515 Congress of the United States House of Representatives Washington, BE 20515 A MESSAGE FROM CONGRESSWOMAN STACEY E. PLASKETT On behalf of the Members of the 118th Congress, my family, and my staff, it is an honor to congratulate the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Government of the Virgin Islands on the ribbon-cutting ceremony of our new Head Start facility in Cruz Bay, St. John. From 1965, Head Start has been creating positive impact in our communities. A comprehensive early childhood education program, Head Start has been proven to help break the cycle of generational poverty and provide children with the skills necessary to build confidence and resilience. Research shows that one of the most effective ways to build broad-based prosperity is to invest in children — providing benefits in the immediate term and over the course of their lives. In the Virgin Islands, Head Start invests in the development of our future generation by providing families with the resources necessary to not only survive but thrive. The importance of this program for the health and wellbeing of our young ones cannot be overstated, that is why I have no doubt that the new Head Start Program facility in St. John will be a major, driving factor in the school readiness of our infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, providing critical support and resources for our family systems. I commend DHS Commissioner George and her team for the awesome work of investing in our children through the opening of our new Head Start facility on St. John. Congratulations again! Sincerely, ss Z 7) Stacey E. Plaskett gf er Delegate to Congress _ 8 . is, OFFICE OF THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS MESSAGE FROM THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR It is my distinct honor to join the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new Head Start facility on Cruz Bay, St. John. The opening of this state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in the Territory as we continue to improve and expand early childhood education opportunities to our families in the Virgin Islands, and in this instance, particularly to the residents of St. John. The Cruz Bay Head Start is one of six Head Start projects being constructed simultaneously throughout the Virgin Islands. These facilities will provide modern, safe, and creative learning environments for children of low-income families, giving them equal access to comprehensive development services. Most notably, the completion of the Cruz Bay Head Start will offer foundational learning for twenty students, offering parents a more convenient option for early childhood education, without the daily commute to St. Thomas. I applaud Commissioner Averil George and the dynamic team of the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, as well as the Office of Disaster Recovery for overseeing the new Head Start projects. As public servants, we recognize the importance of the comprehensive mental, social, and emotional development of preschoolers, who will become our future leaders. I trust that with this new facility, our St. John children will thrive and grow in a happy and healthy environment while we prepare them for success. I pray for God’s guidance and protection for the Head Start students, facilitators, and families and extend best wishes to all for a successful program. ipa At Revel Trege “Roach, Esq. Lieutenant Governor O. 315 PRINCE STREET, FREDERIKSTED, ST. CROIX, USVI 00840 ¢¢ Tel: 340.773.6449 #¢ Fax: 340.773.0330 . BLO. 5049 KONGENS GADE, CHARLOTTE AMALIE, ST. THOMAS, USVI 00802 ¢@ Tel: 340.774.2991 ¢¢ Fax: 340.774.6983 P www.ltg.gov.vi SSK ME ‘ENUSTART Head Start is recognized nationwide as a primary empowerment program for low-income families, involving them in all aspects of service delivery and decision-making for the program. Head Start encourages the role of parents as their child's first and most important teachers and _ facilitate building relationships with families that support positive parent-child relationships, family well-being, and connections to peers and the community. Head Start and Early Head Start programs have a profound impact on over 100,000 children from diverse communities, offering vital early childhood education that prepares them for academic success. These programs are essential to breaking down educational barriers and creating equitable opportunities for every child to thrive. THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE A MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR On behalf of the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands, it gives me great pleasure to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the grand opening of the Cruz Bay, St. John Head Start. This remarkable milestone is not only a testament to the unwavering commitment of our educators, parents, and community leaders but also a pivotal moment in our collective effort to provide the youngest members of our community with a strong foundation for their future success. The grand opening of this Head Start facility points to the commitment of the Bryan-Roach Administration, through the Office of Disaster Recovery, to working, with our federal partners to improve the quality of life of Virgin Islanders. Early childhood education is the cornerstone of a thriving society. The opening of this Head Start facility in Cruz Bay represents our dedication to ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, has access to the tools and resources they need to excel both academically and socially. This new facility will serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come. To Department of Human Services Commissioner Averil George, the Head Start teachers, staff, and all those who have worked tirelessly to make this day possible, I offer my sincere gratitude. Your dedication to our children’s growth and development is deeply appreciated. To the parents, thank you for entrusting your children to this program. And to the students, I look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish as you embark on this exciting journey of learning and discovery. Together, we are building a brighter future for St. John, one child at a time. Congratulations, once again, and may the Cruz Bay Head Start be a shining example of what is possible when a community comes together for the benefit of its children. Sincerely, VOSS, Albert Bryan Jr. Governor Ryan Nugent & Masikia Lewis Rev. Charles Brown Jr. Shikima Jones-Sprauve Shikima Jones-Sprauve Semone Rey -George Commissioner Averil George Commissioner Derek Gabriel, Department of Public Works James Benton, President, J. Benton Construction LLC Director Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Office of Disaster Recovery The Honorable Stacey E. Plaskett, Delegate to Congress, Esq. The Honorable Novelle E. Francis Jr., Senate President, 35th Legislataure The Honorable Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach, Esq. The Honorable Governor Albert Bryan Jr. Rey. Charles Brown Jr. acer Lp THANK YOU ! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a success. Special thanks to the Department of Public Works, the Department of Property and Procurement, J. Benton Construction LLC, the Office of the Governor, the Office of Disaster Recovery, the Bryan-Roach Administration, Head Start Region II, the Administration for Children and Families, Former Commissioner Kimberley Causey-Gomez, our Head Start Administrators, Teachers, and Staff, and the Department of Human Services. Your dedication, support, and partnership have been invaluable. Together, we continue to build a brighter future for our community. 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