An interesting topic was raised during the ongoing budget 2026 debate by Member of Parliament (MP) Ludmila de Weever (PFP). She asked (see Monday newspaper) more attention to special needs support for children under the age of seven.
The coalition member said she already discussed this with Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport (ECYS) Melissa Gumbs, who indicated that the special needs policy needs to be expanded. According to the MP, in the meantime problems such as learning difficulties are not adequately dealt with in an early phase.
She reported having received about 40 letters signed by parents on the matter. Moreover, since being posted on “The Daily Herald” Facebook page, her story surpassed 15,000 views within two days.
It was therefore encouraging to note in Tuesday’s edition that Finance Minister Marinka Gumbs (DP) is open to exploring fiscal incentives and government assistance for institutions serving students with special needs. MP Chris Wever (URSM) had suggested lowering the tax bracket for such entities and also looking into subsidies so they could invest in special needs teachers.
St. Maarten is not the only one dealing with this issue. Curaçao’s Parliament will start handling a draft National Ordinance on Special Founding Education during a general assembly on Friday, August 28.
This law proposal is intended to be an important step in the modernisation and structural strengthening of special education in the Dutch Caribbean country. The sector must be given a full and structural place within the education system.
It’s just an idea, but locally perhaps a school board specifically for special education rather than it falling directly under Division Public Education within MECYS might be an option. It could make use of mental health and other medical expertise available on the island to ensure the students involved get education that aligns with their specific needs and abilities.
They deserve no less.
