CUL DE SAC:--- Under the inspiring theme, "Empowered to Excel—United to Overcome," St. Maarten Academy successfully hosted its highly anticipated Open House on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, welcoming ten elementary and one high school for an immersive look at the institution’s premier offerings. The event served as a powerful demonstration of the Academy’s resilient spirit and its unwavering commitment to "Excellence in Education."
During the visit, prospective students were sensitised to the institution's seamless academic transition. Students can matriculate from the CSEC (Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate) five-year program directly into the Senior Division: CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination). This two-year Associate Degree program is designed to bridge the gap between high school and university, exposing students to internationally accredited, college-level courses that often lead to exemptions from first-year university requirements.
In her welcome address to the visiting Grade 6 students, Vice Principal Joanna Trim encouraged them to strive for their absolute best to attain at least a 70% average in the upcoming Foundation-Based Education (FBE) Examination. She emphasised that achieving this standard earns them a coveted place at the St. Maarten Academy, widely recognised as the best high school on the island.
“The day’s seamless execution was a testament to a massive collaborative effort directed by the Management Team,” commented Principal Kim Lucas-Felix, who provided meaningful remote support and issued a commendation to the faculty, staff, students, and Management for their excellent collaboration and demonstration of "Academy team spirit." These sentiments were echoed by the Executive Director, drs. Tallulah Baly-Vanterpool, who stated, "The team truly came together to showcase our offerings with excellence and impact. Well done to everyone involved."
Vice Principal Trim, who also leads the school’s Public Relations, coordinated the day’s activities on the ground. "We celebrate our exceptional faculty, support staff, and our Facilities, Security and IT Systems teams," she remarked. "We also recognise the creativity of our decorating team led by Mrs. Sharon Layne-Lam and Ms. Denise Riley, the Photography Team led by Ms. Kester Small, Science Lab Technician–Mr. Jude Piper, and our Student Care Team, Mrs. Amanda President-Joe, Mrs. Shameda Delaney Weekes and Mrs. Lisa Wilson-Gittens, who coached our stellar Student Ambassadors as they guided our visitors through their various experiences.
The visitors experienced a holistic view of campus life, beginning with academic rigor in the Science lab showcase and moving into the vibrant world of the Expressive Arts department, which featured a visual arts gallery, drama and theatre arts, steel pan, and music. The energy shifted to the gym for Physical Education, where visiting students donned bibs to compete in spirited team sports. The extracurricular spirit was further highlighted through displays by the Science Club and various service organisations, including the Key Club, Builders Club, and Interact. There’s a club for everyone who chooses to serve or lead!
A special "awesome" thank-you is extended to Edsel's Hangout B.V. (the school canteen), which expertly catered to all guests, staff, and volunteers throughout the day. The Academy also expresses sincere gratitude to the School Inspectorate for their vital assistance with the necessary permissions for all participating schools.
All visiting students and teachers are encouraged to visit www.stmaartenacademy.com to complete the Open House Evaluation. For admissions and registration details, visit the website or contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via phone at +1 721-548-3412 | +1 721-550-4114.
Choose Academy—Choose Excellence in Education.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ombudsman has launched a systemic investigation into the administrative practices of Social and Health Insurance (SZV), following a complaint involving the suspension of medical treatment abroad, the forced repatriation of an insured person, and the imposition of financial consequences without a formal written administrative decision. The investigation has been launched by the functionally responsible government body, the Minister of VSA. This escalation to the level of the Minister follows SZV's lack of cooperation with the Ombudsman's queries, not only regarding the case but also its laws and policies.

The investigation stems from a complaint about an insured person who was referred abroad for medical treatment. The treatment was reportedly suspended, and the patient was repatriated before the scheduled procedures were completed. SZV indicated that the measure was based on an alleged violation of its Regulation on the Duties, Rights, and Responsibilities of the Insured during Medical Referral Abroad (RDIRA). However, despite repeated requests, no formal written decision outlining the factual basis, legal grounds, or available legal remedies was issued. Following the complaint lodged with the Bureau Ombudsman in December 2025, the Ombudsman formally requested information from SZV, including clarification of the legal basis for its actions and access to alleged evidence that supposedly justified the measures taken. Since that time, SZV's responses have been characterized by significant inconsistencies and procedural barriers.

The Ombudsman notes that under Article 3 of the Landsverordening administratieve rechtspraak (LAR), measures such as suspending medical treatment, repatriating an insured person, or imposing financial obligations constitute administrative decisions that must be issued in writing. The Ombudsman warns that allowing public bodies to impose measures with legal and financial consequences without formal written decisions undermines fundamental principles of good governance and the right of citizens to seek judicial review.
Although the investigation originates from an individual complaint, the Ombudsman notes that the issues raised may indicate broader structural concerns in the administrative practices applied in cases involving medical referrals abroad.
Persons who have experienced similar issues with SZV regarding medical treatment abroad, repatriation, or unresolved administrative decisions are encouraged to contact the Bureau Ombudsman at E.C. Richardson Street 13, by telephone at 542-1243, or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Sint Maarten Tax Administration, in collaboration with Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs (CDFHA), is pleased to announce the launch of the annual Senior Tax Assistance Program for the 2025 tax filing period, beginning March 9, 2026. The program offers seniors and pensioners free assistance with completing and submitting their Income Tax Forms and is open to those earning a maximum annual income of Cg. 18,000.

The program will be available at Community Helpdesks across the island from March 9 through April 30, 2026. Seniors who are unable to attend during this period may still receive assistance at the Tax Office by appointment only throughout May.

Appointments can be scheduled by visiting the nearest Community Helpdesk Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., or by calling St. Peters: 520-3418, Cole Bay: 520-4315, Dutch Quarter: 520-7651, and Hope Estate: 559-0819.

To qualify, seniors must bring the required documents, including their wage tax card, interest letter, and any other relevant documentation. This program ensures that seniors can file their 2025 Income Tax Form easily and on time, well before the June 1, 2026, deadline.

The Tax Administration and CDFHA remain committed to supporting seniors by making essential services accessible, simple, and stress-free. Seniors are encouraged to schedule their appointments early and take full advantage of this important annual service.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In light of recent public statements and the public concern that has followed, I wish to provide clarity regarding the construction of the new building of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC).
I fully understand the concerns raised by Members of Parliament and by the community. The construction of our new hospital is one of the most significant national infrastructure projects currently underway, and transparency and accountability remain essential.
Since the beginning of 2026, I have been in close and continuous contact with the management and Supervisory Board of SMMC, as well as with Social & Health Insurances SZV. Several meetings have been held since January as part of my broader Health-in-All-Policies approach for 2025 and beyond, through which I am placing increased focus on healthcare governance, financial sustainability, and system strengthening.

Just a few weeks ago, I personally conducted a site visit and tour of the new hospital building. During these engagements, discussions have covered not only construction progress but also known delays, financial considerations involving the contractor, the global rise in construction costs, operational sustainability, staffing matters, referrals abroad, and SMMC's overall financial position.

Based on the information provided by SMMC management, construction works have not stopped. From the Ministry’s labor perspective, this is further supported by the continued submission and processing of labor permit requests connected to the project.
Large infrastructure projects of this magnitude naturally encounter challenges. What is important is that these challenges are being addressed through structured dialogue and responsible oversight. I remain actively engaged in ensuring that all parties continue working toward viable and sustainable solutions.

Nonetheless, I want to assure the public that I am closely monitoring developments and exercising my responsibility with diligence and care. My priority remains clear: to safeguard public funds, protect the Government’s interests, and ensure that Sint Maarten ultimately benefits from a modern and sustainable healthcare facility.
The public will continue to be informed through official channels as appropriate.