The Case for Pre-K in Sint Maarten

In Sint Maarten, we proudly recognize education as a fundamental right. Our Constitution is clear, every child has the right to education. Yet, in practice, many of our youngest learners begin their schooling without access to the most crucial stage: early childhood education, specifically pre-kindergarten (Pre-K).

The science is undeniable. The first five years of a child’s life are the most critical for brain development. Studies supported by UNICEF and UNESCO consistently demonstrate that children who attend Pre-K programs develop stronger literacy, numeracy, and social skills. They are more likely to succeed in school, less likely to repeat grades, and more prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.

When Sint Maarten does not guarantee Pre-K for all, we are not living up to the spirit of our Constitution, nor are we aligning ourselves with global commitments to provide quality education from the earliest years. Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, echoed by UNESCO’s Education 2030 Agenda, emphasizes that education must begin at the foundation stage. For small island developing states like ours, where human capital is our greatest resource, these principles are not abstract, they are urgent.

This is why Pre-K must be integrated into all public schools in Sint Maarten. It is not enough for early childhood education to be accessible only to those who can afford private programs or a subsidized school. Education is a right, not a privilege. By establishing Pre-K within the public system, we can ensure every child, whether from Dutch Quarter, Cole Bay, or Simpson Bay begins primary school on equal footing.

At the same time, we must acknowledge and strengthen our existing subsidized schools. They have carried much of the weight of early childhood education for decades, often with limited funding and resources.

Investing in Pre-K also aligns with Sint Maarten’s broader vision for resilience and sustainable development. As we work to recover from natural disasters, address the impacts of climate change, and build a stronger, more self-reliant country, we must remember that true resilience begins with people. A child who starts school prepared is more likely to grow into an adult capable of driving innovation, leadership, and progress for our country.

The benefits of universal Pre-K are clear. It reduces dropout rates, lowers the need for remedial education, supports working parents/guardians, and strengthens our society as a whole. Most importantly, it fulfills both a constitutional and moral obligation: to give every child in Sint Maarten the best possible start.

We stand at a crossroads. We can continue to treat Pre-K as optional, or we can embrace it as the essential building block of our education system. The choice should be clear. Investing in Pre-K is investing in the future of Sint Maarten because when our children succeed, so does our country.

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