ROSEAU, DOMINICA – In response to emerging concerns within the educational sector, the Government of Dominica has issued an official clarification regarding salary management practices at government-assisted schools. This statement comes following the circulation of a letter from St. Mary’s Academy staff on February 4, 2026, prompting governmental intervention to ensure factual accuracy and public transparency.
According to the clarification, government-assisted institutions operate as independent entities while receiving monthly grants specifically allocated for staff compensation. The government emphasized that with the notable exceptions of St. Martin Primary, St. Luke’s Primary, and St. John’s Primary Schools, educators at these facilities are not classified as government employees. Consequently, the administration of salary disbursements falls under the purview of individual school authorities rather than central government management.
The Ministry of Finance maintains a established protocol ensuring that financial assistance to these educational institutions is distributed no later than the final business day of each month, provided all necessary requirements have been satisfactorily met. Although staff members at these schools do not hold public officer status, the government has consistently facilitated their compensation through structured grants, recently including negotiated salary enhancements of 3% and 2% in collaboration with the Dominica Association of Teachers, along with corresponding back-pay adjustments.
Government officials acknowledged the critical contribution of both government-assisted and private educational institutions within the national framework. While maintaining their independent operational status, these schools are strongly encouraged to promptly collect available grants to ensure timely remuneration for their educational professionals.
The Dominica Government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting all educational sectors, emphasizing the importance of continuous dialogue and cooperative engagement to address concerns effectively, ultimately prioritizing the best interests of both students and educators throughout the nation.