CHRISTIANSTED — Some of our most vital occupations are being celebrated nationally this week and Senate President Kenneth Gittens has expressed his appreciation to Virgin Islands corrections officers, nurses and teachers.
May 5-11 is recognized as National Correctional Officers Week, May 6-12 as National Nurses Week and May 6-10 as National Teachers Week.
“I thank all the dedicated corrections officers, nurses and teachers here in the U.S. Virgin Islands for their hard work and commitment to our people,” Senator Gittens said. “These are all challenging and often thankless professions, but today I am expressing my deepest appreciation to each and everyone of you. Thank you!”
Senator Gittens, a career law enforcement officer, said he has a special understanding of the challenges faced by those working in all three fields as he has had the opportunity to work closely with each group being recognized this week.
“I know the difficulty of your tasks and I trust you will continue to operate with the patience, diligence and compassion that these demanding jobs require,” Senator Gittens said. “I would like to start by recognizing each of my brothers and sisters at the Bureau of Corrections for their many efforts this and every week.”
The St. Croix senator had special praise for Virgin Islands nurses.
“When we are at our lowest point with illness or injury, nurses are there to provide aid and comfort,” he said. “I ask that all Virgin Islanders join me this week in thanking the nurses who care for us so well.”
The Senate President said it was most fitting that his legislation to formally honor the territory’s Teachers of the Year was heard Monday in the Committee on Education and Workforce Development.
“Each day our teachers are shaping the future of these islands and we must better highlight the value of their work and ensure that they have the tools required to be effective,” he said.