Ministry of Education and Youth Issues Guidance in Preparation for Hurricane Beryl

The Ministry of Education and Youth (MoEY) is closely monitoring Hurricane Beryl as it approaches the Caribbean.

Following the Government of Jamaica’s (GOJ) issuance of a Hurricane Watch for Jamaica, conditions indicative of a hurricane are possible within the next 48 hours.

Hurricane Beryl, now in the eastern Caribbean, is anticipated to impact Jamaica on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

With varying weather conditions expected across different regions, schools may face unique challenges, particularly with scheduled activities such as graduations or first-form orientations.

School boards and administrators are urged to assess local conditions and make decisions that prioritize the safety of students, staff, and community members.

The Ministry empowers school boards to conclude the summer term earlier than planned, closing schools on July 3, 2024, instead of the previously scheduled date of July 5, 2024.

As we brace for Hurricane Beryl, it is imperative to undertake necessary precautions.

If your school or residence is in a flood-prone area, activate your disaster preparedness plan.

Key measures to implement include ensuring that school communication channels are active to disseminate information and respond to queries, arranging for students to be picked up or dismissed with parental knowledge if normal operations change, and stocking up on non-perishable food items.

It is also important to coordinate early with your Parish Disaster Committee or the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) for evacuation procedures, secure all important documents and electronic equipment with waterproof coverings, and clear drains and waterways of debris.

Schools should secure buildings with shutters or plyboards for doors and windows, activate emergency shelter plans as per the attached National Shelter

Listing, and avoid crossing bridges, fording rivers, or streams during flooding, using recommended routes. Communication lines should be kept clear for emergency use, telephone use limited to essential communications.

It is crucial to supervise children at all times and limit their outdoor activities, ensuring their safety. For schools designated as emergency shelters, the following guidelines are crucial.

Shelter support is a critical component of the national crisis response plan, aiming to save lives and provide relief.

School leaders must accommodate relief efforts, prioritizing community safety. Immediate contact with designated shelter managers should be established for coordinated safety measures.

All important educational materials and resources should be protected and secured in shelter areas, and access to security posts should be provided for shelter managers to conduct inspections and manage relief supplies.

Schools should ensure that alternative water systems and bathrooms are accessible, and kitchen access available if necessary. Contact the Regional Director for any uncertainties.

Effective collaboration with Centre Managers is essential to ensure the efficient management of shelters and the safety of all involved.

For more information and updates, please follow our official channels and stay tuned for further advisories as Hurricane Beryl progresses.