CHARLOTTE AMALIE — Virgin Islands Department of Education Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin has tested positive for COVID-19.
Berry-Benjamin underwent COVID-19 testing on Friday, after experiencing symptoms overnight on September 9, the Department of Education said.
Berry-Benjamin did not perform any official duties following an emergency press conference she hosted on Thursday, according to the DOE.
Assistant Education Commissioner Victor Somme III will serve as Acting Commissioner while Berry-Benjamin recuperates.
Berry-Benjamin has been fully vaccinated since February 2021, the department said in a prepared statement.
During a telephone call to staff on Friday evening, Berry-Benjamin said employees and the community should continue to follow all COVID-19 safety protocols, as the coronavirus remains prevalent, and all are susceptible to it.
The Department of Education said it “extends best wishes for a speedy recovery to Commissioner Berry-Benjamin and thanks the community for its support.”