The Bermuda Union of Teachers this afternoon called for Government to invest in teachers with the same diligence as the America’s Cup.

In a statement, the BUT said its members were impressed that the America’s Cup would be coming to Bermuda, but a similar investment in education is even more justifiable.

BUT President Shannon James said: “As we step boldly into 2015, we rejoice over past achievements and aspire to higher ground. In this sense, the Bermuda Union of Teachers recognises the deep commitment, lavish enthusiasm and winsome leadership that this Government has shown to ensure that this high-level event will come to our shores.

“Without a doubt, the BUT applauds the potential benefits that are likely to redound to the good people of Bermuda. These include: the injection of new dollars into the economy; creation of new jobs and; the expansion of Bermuda’s brand as the offshore and tourism capital of the world.

“Already, we feel the energy emanating from this announcement. We support [Minister of Education and Economic Development Grant] Gibbons’ initiative in asking the entire Island to pull together to make this event a rousing success. The Honourable Minister has spared no energy to let the nation know that he has our best interest at heart. He treats this event as a vital investment in Bermuda’s future, and has supported it with heavy financial backing to the tune of millions of taxpayers’ dollars.

“Although we are encouraged by this show of dedication to our Island’s future, we believe that a similar investment in education is even more justifiable. Therefore, we call on the OBA to show at least the same level of passion, dedication and fervour to the public school system.

“The same diligence that is being given to ensure that the America’s Cup is a success should, and needs to be placed on investing in our teachers, investing more in our school infrastructure, investing in students’ learning, and investing time and resources in educational support materials.

“It is simply not enough to change ministers or to assign a single minister to the Ministry of Education. The government needs to more clearly articulate a vision of the public school system backed by heavy human and financial resources so that the public school system becomes the best brand in Bermuda. We can get it right in 2015.

“The benefits of this parallel investment are many. Students will be better prepared to achieve high personal and civil goals and schools will attract the finest and best minds to produce and equip a critically thinking generation. There are ripple effects. “This investment will stimulate the economy and ensure the stability of Bermuda’s workforce. It will ensure our nation’s peace and security. Expectations could be more fully enjoyed when our children engage in nation building initiatives steeped in our values of caring, excellence, mutual respect and social responsibility.

“We call on the OBA to show the same guts and gusto for education as it has been showing for the America’s Cup. The BUT stands willing and ready to support even if a fraction of the courage that this government is investing in this project. There is still time to defend, invest and give generously to education. If the public school system is given the sparkling priority it deserves, it will yield many dividends. Education is the foundation for building a great nation through the creation of an honourable people.

“We cannot afford for the Ministry of Education to continue to be a revolving door. The BUT challenges the OBA to get its’ priorities straight. For our part, the BUT will continue to put forth every ounce of effort and willpower to make Bermuda world renowned for its public education system.”