MOVE TO REMOTE LEARNING AHEAD OF MELISSA
All schools have been directed to suspend face-to-face classes and transition to remote learning.
This decision was announced by way of a news release issued after 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
The release did not state when the suspension would take effect, but it was understood that there would be no face-to-face classes as of Thursday morning, October 23.
The Ministry of Education said the decision had been made “out of an abundance of caution due to the expected effects of Tropical Storm Melissa.”
The release said:
“The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoESYI) wishes to advise the public that all schools have been directed to suspend face-to-face classes and transition to remote learning out of an abundance of caution due to the expected effects of Tropical Storm Melissa. Where remote learning is not possible, schools have been asked to prepare take-home worksheets and other at home learning activities to ensure learning continues.
“This decision was taken following consultations with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), as heavy rains and possible flooding are expected in some areas tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon.
“The safety and wellbeing of our students, teachers, and staff must always come first.” — Senator Dr. The Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information.
Minister Morris Dixon also noted: “There is some uncertainty about the trajectory of Tropical Storm Melissa. Based on current forecast, we expect to feel the effects of the system on the Eastern Parishes in the late afternoon tomorrow. As a result, out of an abundance of caution we have directed schools to transition to remote learning. All schools are encouraged to make full use of virtual platforms, and where that is not possible, to provide take-home materials so that every child can continue learning safely from home. We will continue to monitor the weather conditions closely and provide timely updates as the situation evolves.”
