With Special Education being a focus of his ministry, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Science and Technology, the Hon. Chester Cooper paid a special call on the Beacon School while in Grand Bahama on June 4, 2026 on what was his first official visit since taking on his new portfolio.
Minister Cooper and his delegation were given a tour of the campus, which included the classrooms, playground and farm area. He also met the teachers and students and was particularly impressed with the educational and vocational programmes.
“The Ministry of Education proudly proclaims that every child counts. What I saw here today is a demonstration that there are many committed souls in this country, in the classrooms who are giving of themselves who are dedicated to the cause to ensure that every child has an opportunity for dignity, for improving their station in life and to be able really to function after school,” Minster Cooper said.
The minister also presented Principal Titi McKenzie Moss with a $2,500 gift voucher on behalf of Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources, the Hon. Jomo Campbell to assist with the school’s Agricultural Programme.
While noting that there was more to come, Minister Cooper revealed that the school is also pegged to receive a donation of chickens, beginning this September.
“I was able to see a beautiful farm out back where they are actually growing herbs, tomatoes and there’s a chicken coop ready for occupancy,” he said, adding that he hopes to see the donated chicks in active form and he anticipates receiving a few eggs on his return in a few months, after school reopens.
The Minister of Education was overjoyed with the overall experience while learning of the diverse offerings at the special-needs institution.
“What I saw here today from the creation of craft, to the sporting facility, to T-shirts; there’s a nice little craft shop, there’s a restaurant serving a healthy menu, and a car wash. I truly didn’t know The Beacon School existed in this form. I am delighted to have come,” he said.
At present, the school caters to 117 students and has an additional 50 students on its waiting list.
Principal Titi McKenzie Moss noted the faculty, staff and students were elated to host Minister Cooper and his delegation who were also eager to learn of the challenges the institution faces and how they can assist.
She expressed how grateful they are for the assistance to the Agriculture Programme and assurance that the parents whose children are on the waiting list will be aided in short order, as the school will receive the needed specialist and trained personnel.
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