On Sunday morning, a 57-year-old woman was robbed as she was walking along Guyana Street after shopping at Dickerson Supermarket in Orange Walk.
Reyes told the police that a male person on a bicycle approached her from behind and stole her black purse. She stated that the purse contained $350 along with other important documents.
Police reviewed surveillance cameras nearby, which quickly led to the identification and arrest of Raheem Eagan, who has been charged with theft. Police were able to recover Reyes’s purse and items.
Jose Shol says that his stepfather, Crisantos Chub, was a victim of a hit-and-run on Friday, October 11. Chub had just left Shol’s house at around 2:30 p.m. when he was struck by a driver on a motorcycle. The incident happened on the Thomas Vincent Ramos Highway. Chub suffered injuries to his face and arm.
Shol told News Five, “He was turning upside down like a dead chicken on the road. So I pick him up; I lift him up to carry him to his house. But one thing I understand is that he was hit by a motorcycle, which is an accident. If I carry him home, should something happen, and then police will do something to me.” Shol shared that he laid Chub on the ground until he was taken to the nearby clinic.
“So nothing they do; the doctor just gave him a drip and some medication and then told me to carry him home.” However, Chub’s condition worsened, and he was taken to the Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga and later to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City.
The driver of the motorcycle was heading towards Mango Creek.
If you have any information that can assist investigators, you are asked to call 911 or the family at 668-5144. The family is also asking for assistance in covering Chub’s mounting medical bill.
Unpacking the Rising Crisis in Belize’s Education System
The recruitment of Caribbean teachers is a direct response to the severe teacher shortage in the U.S. In August 2022, the Washington Post reported that “the teacher shortage has hit crisis levels—and school officials everywhere are scrambling to ensure that as students return to classrooms someone is there to educate them.”
The new school year began a few months ago, but many schools across Belize were also confronted with a teacher shortage crisis. Reports indicated that numerous teachers had resigned from their positions, leaving classrooms full of students but lacking educators to guide them.
In August 2024, Herman Ramirez, who is a member of the national executive of the Catholic Primary Schools Principals Association and principal of Our Lady of Lourdes RC School in Maskall Village, told News 5 that “We had two teachers that in the last minute they sent out, you know, information that they’re actually requesting to be released, requesting to be transferred, requesting to resign, and that sort of thing. And normally this would happen, especially in the rural areas, where you have teachers commuting to teach.”
Nadia Caliz, President of the Belize National Teachers Union, told News Five that many teachers are leaving the profession in favour of better-paying jobs elsewhere. She said, “We have different countries that have different teacher programmes. The salaries are attractive, and our teachers have decided that they want to explore those options.”
In September, Minister of Education Francis Fonseca cited the shortage as both a lack of available “qualified” educators and difficulties with license renewals. However, some educators have voiced dissatisfactions with the MOE’s required 120 CPD (Continuous Professional Development) hours for license renewal. The situation worsened when 130 teachers reported working without pay. This prompted the Ministry of Education to acknowledge yet another issue: an outdated salary processing system causing delays in teachers’ compensation.
Caliz explained that teachers are required to complete 120 hours of CPD to renew their teaching licenses. While some teachers have met this requirement, many are facing delays in receiving their certificates, which confirm their CPD hours. Caliz noted that teachers apply for these certificates through the Teacher Learning Institute (TLI) but are still waiting for the documentation. Without it, they cannot obtain a new license.
When asked where the certificates come from, Caliz clarified that they are issued by the Ministry of Education. Addressing concerns about potential delays caused by last-minute submissions, Caliz acknowledged that while a few teachers may wait until the last minute, the majority do not fall into that category, and the issue affects a broader range of educators.
Minister Fonseca recognised these compounding challenges and the allure of better salaries abroad, stating, “It is a serious issue.” He noted that developed nations actively recruit English-speaking Caribbean teachers who “can more effectively transition into the North American education system.” Fonseca pointed out that while many teachers do not wish to leave their homes and families, the attractive packages offered abroad can be hard to resist.
These developments have raised concerning questions about the future of education in Belize. Are the required 120 CPD hours a significant factor driving educators away from the profession? How do delayed salaries and limited resources contribute to this crisis? Are months of unpaid work worsening the situation? And do these challenges reflect a broader trend of teachers seeking better opportunities abroad?
Local Struggles: Why Teachers Are Leaving
One of the primary motivators for Belizean teachers to move to the U.S. is the significant pay difference. In Belize, teachers often face low salaries and limited financial growth. The U.S. offers competitive wages that can provide a more comfortable lifestyle and financial stability. Programmes like Participate Learning facilitate this transition by offering salaries equivalent to those of U.S. educators, along with additional benefits such as medical coverage and airfare.
During the Belize National Curriculum Framework in 2022, Education Minister Francis Fonseca addressed the sharp salary disparity between recruiting countries like the U.S. and Caribbean nations like Belize. He said, “We can’t compete with the salaries that they’re offering.”
The earnings of teachers in Belize are reflected in the new salary scales that were implemented on April 1, 2017. According to it, entry-level teachers in government and government-aided schools with a high school diploma start at pay scale level 5, earning an estimated annual salary of $13,152 Belize dollars. Meanwhile, those holding a bachelor’s degree begin at pay scale level 16, with an approximate annual salary of $30,171. These figures are expected to increase over time through annual increments, and higher wages can reflect any additional educational qualifications.
The Participate Learning programme offers teachers salaries between $41,000 and $55,000 USD, along with subsidised medical coverage, airfare, and visa application support.
“Sometimes the packages become so attractive that it becomes difficult for them to resist,” Fonseca admitted.
In response to growing concerns over teacher salaries in Belize, the Ministry of Education’s Chief Executive Officer, Dian Maheia, acknowledged the frustrations of educators but outlined the ministry’s limitations. “While we hear and appreciate every teacher who feels that he or she is underpaid, the reality is that this ministry is not in a position to say, Oh, you know, we can do anything to make teachers’ salaries competitive right now compared to anybody else,” she said. She noted that when comparing salaries, “Belize’s teachers are not poorly, not so badly off.”
However, the journey to the U.S. is not solely driven by financial concerns; it is often a deeply personal decision. A Belizean teacher in the Participate Learning programme shared, “Teaching in Belize was both demanding and time-consuming. I invested a significant amount of my own money into classroom materials and essential resources. I also missed out a lot on family time, as I spent countless hours planning, grading, and preparing activities outside of school hours.”
When asked about the challenges within the education system that motivated her to leave Belize, she said, “Several challenges pushed me to make the decision. The salary was insufficient to cover my monthly expenses, and the lack of resources made teaching extremely overwhelming.” She added that working abroad in the Participate Learning programme has allowed her to meet her financial obligations back home while still living very comfortably in the U.S.
She added, “Higher salaries, benefits, and more manageable CPD requirements were significant factors in my decision to explore teaching abroad.” She described the salary in Belize as “insufficient” and the lack of resources “made teaching extremely overwhelming.”
Connecting Belizean Teachers to Opportunities Abroad
In recent years, international teacher recruitment has surged, with programmes like Participate Learning, which connects Belizean educators with educational institutions in the U.S. This trend is driven by the promise of better pay, professional growth, and improved living conditions.
Founded by former educators, this initiative offers teachers competitive salaries, benefits, and an opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture for a period of three to five years. The programme also welcomes educators to bring their spouses and children along for the journey.
Ronald Ramírez, International Recruitment Manager, states, “Teaching in the USA is a transformative experience.” He emphasised that as a Participate Learning Ambassador Teacher, educators not only teach but also play a crucial role in fostering global, cultural, and language connections within schools. “You’ll embark on a journey of cultural exchange, sharing your traditions while embracing U.S. culture,” he adds.
Belizean teacher Alex Cruz, a participant of the programme, shared his experience five years ago: “This is a great opportunity to showcase my country, my culture… Professionally speaking, I want to learn from the education system in the U.S. and apply those strategies back home.”
Additionally, participants can even pursue master’s degrees while teaching to further enhance their professional journey.
For some educators, the requirement to complete 120 hours of CPD hours is “out of order and unconstitutional.” Veteran teacher Otilio Munoz, who recently resigned after 27 years, stated, “It’s not fair for me to lose 27 years of my life to my country. I felt that I had to resign.” Munos added, “I will say it over again: having those CPD’s attached as a must for renewal of a teacher’s license is out of order and unconstitutional! As a Belizean, I have the right to work!”
Although the Ministry clarified that no licenses have been rejected due to incomplete CPD hours, Munoz pointed out the severe consequences for teachers on hold: “While on hold, the teacher will not be able to get a salary nor be in a classroom teaching. Which teacher can afford that?” He added that for this reason, “many teachers are leaving Belize to go to the U.S. to teach or to Taiwan to teach English.”
In contrast, according to a Belizean teacher currently enrolled in the Participate Learning programme, CPD hours are part of the U.S. education system requirements but “are tailored to our specific needs. The focus is very practical and supportive.”
From Belize to the U.S.: A Transformative Experience
While economic factors are significant, the chance for professional growth cannot be overlooked. Belizean teachers can gain exposure to different educational systems, teaching methodologies, and classroom technologies. This experience not only enhances their skills but also broadens their perspectives on education.
Recounting his experience, Belizean teacher Alex Cruz said, “We visited a school; it was amazing compared to my country. The infrastructure is very high, and the resources that the schools have here are amazing. I would strongly recommend Belizean teachers to join the programme. It will help you grow professionally, share your skills, as well as acquire new skills.”
Another Belizean teacher said, “It has been a fantastic opportunity for growth. The exposure to new methods and teaching strategies has been invaluable.” She also praised the tailored professional development in the U.S., saying, “Yes, we do have to engage in CPD hours, but they are tailored to our specific needs. The focus is very practical and supportive.” The teacher noted the integration of technology as an exciting experience as it offers innovative ways to engage with students, enhancing the overall learning experience. She added, “In terms of professional development, it has been tremendous.”
Silver Lining: Bringing Skills Back to Belize
“The truth is that in terms of direct competition, there is very little that we can do if your only motivation is an increased salary,” said Minister Fonseca while acknowledging the difficulties of competing with the attractive salaries offered abroad.
Meanwhile, CEO Maheia explained that the choice to explore career opportunities abroad comes down mainly to a personal decision. “The reality at the end of the day is that the decision if a teacher chooses to explore career opportunities in another country is a personal decision, and I am not sure if there is anything that a government or Ministry of Education can do to change that.”
Despite the current struggles, teachers in programmes like Participate Learning are preparing to bring valuable skills and insights back to Belize. One educator shared, “I plan to return to Belize, and the experiences I’m gaining here will only make me a better educator.” The commitment of these educators to return home and share their newfound insights offers a promising outlook for Belize’s educational future.
Participate Learning not only provides a pathway for Belizean teachers to secure better salaries and professional development opportunities but also facilitates cultural exchanges that enrich both the educators and their students. As part of the programme, teachers are required to return to Belize to work and share what they’ve learnt.
by Benita Kemé-Palacio, Digital Content Creator
This article was updated at 5:35 local time to reflect the New Pay Scales for teachers effective April 1, 2017.
The Vice Chairman of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Alberto August, says that “it has been established, beyond the shadow of any doubt, that the October 20th NAP (New Alliance Party) convention is NOT a United Democratic Party (UDP) sanction or approved event.” Speaking for the UDP, August reminded UDP Standard Bearers and delegates to remain loyal to the party’s principles and constitution. “We should therefore not allow a disgruntled breakaway faction of the Party to twist the Party’s Constitution to accommodate their selfish agendas,” he added.
August assured party members that despite the Alliance for Democracy event, the UDP’s structure remains strong.
“Do not be misled by the ramblings about taking the matter to court. The legal system is established to interpret THE LAWS OF BELIZE. The UDP Constitution was not enacted by parliament it is therefore NOT a part of the laws of Belize. It is an internal instrument exclusively designed to govern the affairs and activities of the United Democratic Party.”
August encouraged party officials to stay united behind the elected leadership, advising them to ignore any distractions caused by the Alliance.
The decapitated bodies of five men have been discovered along a road in central Mexico, specifically in an area controlled by the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Authorities were alerted to the scene near Ojuelos in Jalisco state on Sunday morning after drivers reported seeing plastic bags containing the remains. Forensic experts are currently working to identify the victims.
The brutal nature of the murders and the public disposal of the bodies strongly suggest cartel involvement. National Guard troops also responded and found the remains wrapped in black plastic bags, according to a statement from the Jalisco state prosecutor’s office. The ages of the victims have not yet been determined, and an investigation is underway.
Official figures indicate that Jalisco has seen 1,415 homicides between January and September this year. Nationwide, Mexico grapples with one of the highest murder rates in the world, with over 30,000 fatalities annually.
This violence comes on the heels of last week’s assassination of Alejandro Arcos, a newly elected mayor in Chilpancingo, Guerrero, just days after taking office. President Claudia Sheinbaum, who was sworn in recently, has ruled out a return to the aggressive “war on drugs” tactics of previous administrations, instead proposing a strategy focused on intelligence gathering and addressing the root causes of violence—a plan dubbed “hugs not bullets” by her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador. However, opposition leaders are calling for stronger measures against the drug gangs.
Since the Mexican government began deploying the military against cartels in 2006, the country has witnessed hundreds of thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of disappearances.
The National Meteorological Service of Belize (NMSB) and the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) are actively monitoring the Southwest Caribbean Sea, where models indicate a potential for tropical cyclone development later this week. Currently, the chances of formation are low, with near 0% probability over the next 48 hours and a 30% likelihood within the next seven days.
However, conditions could change, and in a worst-case scenario, a tropical depression or storm might form by Thursday or Friday, moving over Northern Nicaragua or Honduras before weakening as its remnants pass over Belize late Friday into Saturday, potentially bringing moderate to heavy rainfall.
The public is advised to remain calm, as forecasts may evolve. Given that we are still in the peak of hurricane season, it is essential to stay informed by monitoring official alerts from the NMSB and NEMO regarding any weather threats that may impact the country. Advisories, watches, and warnings will be communicated through the organisations’ websites, social media platforms, and national television and radio stations. Residents are urged to refrain from listening to or spreading rumours and misinformation from unofficial sources.
The NMSB collaborates with the National Hurricane Centre for regional forecasts and works alongside the Caribbean Meteorological Organization. It is important to note that only the Prime Minister, upon the advice of the Chief Meteorologist and the National Emergency Coordinator, has the authority to issue a hurricane or tropical storm watch or warning for Belize. Meanwhile, the National Emergency Operations Centre and all District Emergency Operations Centres are remaining vigilant and prepared as they continue to monitor potential threats.
Belize is being represented at the prestigious Blue Planet Alliance (BPA) Fellowship Program in Honolulu, Hawaii, which runs from October 6 to 11, 2024. The Belizean delegation includes Omereyon Fregene, Manager of Energy Supply at Belize Electricity Limited; Dean Molina, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Utilities Commission; Indira Williams, President of the Rotary Club of Dangriga; and Senator Bevinton Cal.
The program focusses on advancing a transition to a 100% renewable energy future and has convened leaders from island nations around the globe to share knowledge, strategies, and innovative solutions for sustainable energy.
Throughout the week-long program, participants have engaged with policy experts, utility executives, and community leaders, gaining valuable insights into Hawaii’s successful transition to renewable energy. They are also exploring best practices and developing actionable strategies tailored to Belize’s unique energy landscape.
The travel expenses for the Belize delegation were supported by the Blue Planet Alliance.
Seleni Grajales’ days were always busy. But since 2022, things got even busier for the principal from Belize, who now starts each day in her school kitchen, checking in on lunch preparations for the 130 students under her care.
Like many schools in the Central American country, the Santa Martha Government Primary School near the town of Orange Walk ran for years without a cafeteria. At lunchtime, students left to eat at home, creating an inconvenience for parents who had to be home to receive them and a concern for teachers who knew that not all kids would have a proper meal.
“Many of the students would go home and have nothing to eat,” recalls Seleni. “Or [they’d have] just basics like beans and rice – no veggies.”
“When they’d go back to school, they wouldn’t pay attention because their tummy hurt,” she says. Many children were also behind in development and their weight was low.
That all changed when she built the school’s first garden and kitchen two years ago. “From the garden we are planting what we use for the meals: tomato, cabbage, cilantro,” she explains.
They don’t grow everything that’s on the menu, but enough to cut cost. Plus, the garden is a great learning laboratory for the students, she says.
The two upper level classes – with students aged 11 to 13 – spend an hour each day in the garden under supervision of Ms. Seleni and other teachers. They observe the different phases of plant growth and master basic gardening skills they can use at home; they learn about pests and organic plant-care, and about the food chain and healthy eating, so they gain an understanding how the produce they grow benefits their body.
“We see less absenteeism because the students know they will get a meal at school,” says Seleni. “This year, for the first time ever, we have 14 students going to high school, out of 18 students in the class.”
What’s more, more parents are working because they can leave their children to eat lunch at schools, and that means more financial security.
Seleni’s school got support from various government and FAO initiatives that helped them set up the garden and kitchen as part of a new national school feeding programme.
“Food goes along with development and education,” she stresses. “They are eating healthy, wanting to be more at school, and continuing their education.”
The school kitchen and garden were established as part of the Resilient School Feeding sub-project under the Mexico-CARICOM-FAO Initiative, titled Cooperation for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Caribbean (Resilient Caribbean Initiative).
On Saturday, Crime Stoppers Belize confirmed the capture of Angel Garcia, also known as “El Adolfo Alvarez Ga.” The 21-year-old Honduran national was previously on remand at the Belize Central Prison.
According to reports, Garcia broke free along with another prisoner, Santos Lopez. The two men reportedly broke free on their way back to Hattiville at Mile 8 along the George Price Highway on October 11. Lopez was caught soon after the escape, but Garcia managed to stay on the run for several hours before he was found by the police.
Police are investigating another motorcycle accident that occurred on Central American Boulevard in Belize City, near the 88 Shopping Centre on Monday night. The identities of those involved have not yet been released.
According to reports, the motorcyclist collided with the rear of an SUV vehicle while travelling along the boulevard. The force of the impact caused injuries to the motorcycle rider, who was later transported to the hospital for treatment.
