ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Aruba School Year 2026-2027 has begun with Education Minister Gerlien Croes extending her best wishes to students, teachers, school leaders, support staff and families across the island.
Croes described the beginning of a new academic year as a fresh opportunity for students to learn, grow, overcome challenges and move closer to their personal goals.
Under the message “Education, shaping our future generation,” the minister emphasised that the success of Aruba’s education system depends on cooperation among students, educators, families and the wider community.
Students Encouraged to Approach Year With Determination
Croes addressed students as the heart of Aruba’s schools and an important part of the country’s future.
She encouraged them to begin the academic year with curiosity, determination and an open mind.
The minister acknowledged that not every school day will be easy. Some days will bring achievements and enjoyment, while others will require additional effort and perseverance.
Her message encouraged students to view challenges as opportunities to strengthen their character rather than as reasons to give up.
Every lesson learned during the year, Croes said, can bring students another step closer to their future ambitions.
Teachers Recognised for Their Contribution
The minister also expressed appreciation for Aruba’s teachers, educators and other school employees.
She described educators as an important driving force within society because their responsibilities extend beyond transferring academic knowledge.
Teachers also help shape future professionals, innovators, leaders and citizens.
Croes thanked education professionals for the patience, passion and dedication they demonstrate while supporting children and young people throughout their development.
Her message comes as the ministry continues several efforts intended to strengthen educational quality and student support. For the 2026–2027 school year, the government has maintained its class-size policy aimed at keeping classes generally between 16 and 24 students where staffing and facilities allow.
Families Have Essential Role at Home
Parents and families were also included in the minister’s message.
Croes said support at home remains one of the strongest foundations for a student’s academic progress and emotional wellbeing.
A strong relationship between home and school can help students receive consistent encouragement, guidance and structure.
Parents can contribute by remaining involved in their children’s education, maintaining communication with schools and providing support when academic or personal difficulties arise.
The minister encouraged families to remain a source of motivation and guidance throughout the school year.
Education Seen as Investment in Aruba’s Future
Croes described education as one of the most powerful tools available for creating future opportunities and supporting Aruba’s continued development.
The ministry has been pursuing several education initiatives during 2026, including digitalisation and improved systems for monitoring and supporting students.
One example is the KeDo digital platform, which was introduced to strengthen cooperation among schools, families and support services while helping monitor students’ social and emotional development.
Aruba and Curaçao have also signed an agreement to cooperate on the digital transformation of education and government services.
New Academic Year Brings Fresh Opportunities
The beginning of the Aruba School Year 2026-2027 represents another opportunity for students to build knowledge, develop skills and prepare for their next stage of education or employment.
For teachers and school personnel, it begins another year of guiding young people through academic and personal development.
For families, it creates another opportunity to strengthen cooperation with schools and remain actively involved in their children’s progress.
Croes wished Aruba’s entire education community wisdom, health, perseverance and success throughout the new academic year.
Her central message was that education is not only about what students learn today, but also about preparing the generation that will shape Aruba’s future.
