The Ministry of Education has noted a public notice issued by the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT) concerning the commencement of the 2026-2027 academic year.
The ministry is concerned that this communication may create uncertainty among parents, students, teachers, and the wider public, particularly as the official reopening date has already been communicated.
For the avoidance of doubt, schools will reopen for students on Monday, 31 August 2026. This remains the official reopening date communicated by the Ministry of Education.
This decision was taken after careful consideration of the relevant provisions of the Education Act, the prescribed vacation periods, the school calendar, and the public interest, including the importance of maximising instructional contact time for students.
The ministry is mindful of the definition of “academic year” contained in the Education Act. Importantly, the interpretation provisions of the act are expressly qualified by the words, “unless the context otherwise requires.” The ministry therefore considers that the provisions of the act must be read together and in their proper context, including those relating to school terms, vacation periods, and the administration of the education system. The statutory definition of the academic year should not, by itself, be construed as determining the date on which schools may officially reopen following the prescribed vacation period.
The ministry respects the right of the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT) to express its views and advocate on behalf of its membership. However, such advocacy must not be confused with the authority to determine or announce the official commencement of school.
That authority rests with the Ministry of Education and the minister responsible for education, acting within the powers provided by law. The ministry is responsible for the administration of the public education system and for the official determination and communication of the school calendar and reopening dates.
Parents, students, teachers, and members of the public are therefore asked to be guided by official communications issued by the Ministry of Education.
The ministry looks forward to the cooperation of all stakeholders as we work together to ensure an orderly reopening of schools and maintain a continued focus on the education and well-being of the nation’s children.
Ministry of Education
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