Racquel Berry-Benjamin
Racquel Berry-Benjamin | |
|---|---|
 Official portrait, 2019 | |
| Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Department of Education | |
| In office April 2019 – June 2022 | |
| Governor | Albert Bryan |
| Deputy | Maria Encarnacion Victor Somme II |
| Preceded by | Sharon McCollum |
| Succeeded by | Dionne Wells-Hendrington |
| Deputy Superintendent of Schools from St. Thomas/St. John District | |
| Succeeded by | Syrma Dee Brown |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Racquel Berry May 1, 1983 St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Joseph Benjamin |
| Children | 1 |
Racquel Berry-Benjamin is a former Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Department of Education. She served in this role from 2019 to 2022, overseeing the territory's education system during significant challenges, including the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and the COVID-19 pandemic. Following her tenure as Commissioner, she transitioned into financial literacy advocacy and business development.
Commissioner of Education
[edit]Appointment and vision
[edit]Berry-Benjamin was nominated by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. in early 2019 to serve as Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Department of Education. Her confirmation process faced initial hurdles, as lawmakers expressed concerns about her readiness to lead the department, which manages a budget of nearly $200 million, including federal funds.[1]
Berry-Benjamin made a second Senate appearance in March 2019 and emphasized modernization and workforce development. Governor Bryan defended his nomination, stating that he was "going to take the risk" because "we require change and you need change to get change."[2] Following this hearing, her nomination was approved, and she assumed office as Education Commissioner.
Leadership and challenges
[edit]Berry-Benjamin led the Department of Education during school recovery efforts from Hurricanes Irma and Maria and the transition to virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, the department distributed thousands of Chromebooks and MiFi devices to students, ensuring access to online education.[3]
Berry-Benjamin's tenure also included the development of a five-year strategic plan for the department, which introduced "A Portrait of a Virgin Islands' Graduate", integrating financial and economic education into the curriculum. She emphasized employee appreciation and professional development, stating that staff were "the No. 1 asset of any company".[4]
Controversies
[edit]Berry-Benjamin faced criticism from lawmakers and educators regarding school conditions, department responsiveness, and student engagement. In April 2022, protests erupted across the territory, with educators and students citing inadequate classroom conditions, mold issues, and air conditioning failures.[5]
Resignation
[edit]On June 27, 2022, Governor Bryan announced her resignation, effective immediately.[6] Assistant Commissioner Victor Somme was appointed as Acting Commissioner.[7]
Post-Commissioner Career
[edit]Following her resignation, Berry-Benjamin transitioned into financial literacy advocacy and business consulting. She founded Pathway to Prosperity and Champions for Financial Literacy, Inc., organizations aimed at promoting financial education among underserved communities.[8]
References
[edit]- ^ "Bryan Announces Racquel Berry as His Choice for Department of Education Commissioner". The Virgin Islands Consortium.
- ^ "Berry-Benjamin Confirmed as Education Commissioner". The Virgin Islands Consortium.
- ^ "Berry-Benjamin Touts Record, Praises Staff, Students in Farewell Video". St. Thomas Source. 28 June 2022.
- ^ "Berry-Benjamin Reflects on Tenure as Education Commissioner". St. Thomas Source. 28 June 2022.
- ^ "Education Commissioner Racquel Berry-Benjamin Resigns". The Virgin Islands Consortium.
- ^ "Governor Bryan Accepts Resignation of Education Commissioner". Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands. 27 June 2022.
- ^ "Berry-Benjamin Resigns as Commissioner". St. Thomas Source. 27 June 2022.
- ^ "Cash for Candy Campaign Promotes Financial Literacy". National Financial Educators Council.