EEO Bahamas

Fall Newsletter

September 2026

There is something incredibly hopeful about the start of a new school year...familiar faces returning, new students arriving, and teachers preparing to meet each child where they are.

Across Harbour Island and Eleuthera, EEO’s centers are once again filled with children learning, growing, and receiving the support they need. The first few weeks are always busy as we assess individual needs, establish routines, and help everyone settle in, but our teachers are ready and excited for the year ahead.

We are especially encouraged by the continued growth of our Family Island Partnership and what it means for children who previously had little or no access to special education support in their own communities.

There is still so much work to do, but this school year is beginning with real momentum and hope.

Growing Through Partnership

What began last year as a pilot has become a powerful example of what is possible when EEO’s experience, donor support, and government investment come together. Now entering its second year, the Family Island Partnership includes 12 teachers—with more to come—supporting students across 19 schools in Cat Island, Exuma, Abaco, Spanish Wells, Eleuthera, Acklins, and Andros. In Exuma, this work is strengthened through our valued partnership with Friends of Exuma.

This shared commitment was at the center of our recent meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Science & Technology the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Parliamentary Secretary Keenan Johnson, and Deputy Director of Curriculum & Instruction Terrice Carey-Curry.

“We cannot ignore the children who must have an opportunity to have the best life. We want to continue to push with people like you, and we’re going to invite more partners to come to the table to see how we can continue the great work.” — Hon. I. Chester Cooper

Minister of Education, Science & Technology the Honorable Chester Cooper

"This is a big moment for our schools—having this kind of support is making such a difference for our kids."

~FIP parent

Expanding Therapy Support

Our new therapy pilot is already bringing critically needed services to children in Harbour Island and North Eleuthera. Visiting specialists in behavior, speech and language, and occupational therapy are working directly with students, families, and teachers monthly.

Our new Integrative Learning Specialist, Savannah Cambridge, will help provide consistency and follow-through between visits. This pilot is possible because a community came together—including the Ressler Getz Foundation and Coral Sands and the generous in-kind support of the Rock House.

Pictured above:

Savannah Cambridge

Stronger Together

No single organization can meet every need. By bringing together families, teachers, specialists, donors, community partners, and the Government of The Bahamas, we can build stronger, more sustainable support for children throughout the Family Islands.

Getting to know new EEO Team Members

Welcoming Kedeisha and Rodna

We are happy to announce that Kedeisha Hudson has joined EEO as our new teacher at Harbour Island All Age School while Jennie Charles is on maternity leave. A former student of the school, Kadeisha is eager to give back to her community while working toward her Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

“Being part of EEO means a lot to me. It gives me the chance to make a real difference in children’s lives and help them feel confident, supported, and ready to learn.”

We are pleased to welcome Rodna Johnson, Family Island President of the Kiwanis Club, who will provide part-time support at Central Eleuthera High School. Her role will help ensure continuity for EEO students who previously received support at nearby primary schools as they transition into high school. We are grateful to have her helping these students continue to grow and succeed.

Pictured above: Kedeisha & her students at Harbour Island EEO Center

Celebrating Every Victory

At EEO, we celebrate every victory—big and small. Jonathan once received support through EEO, and today he works alongside his father as an electrician. Seeing him use his strengths, develop valuable skills, and build a future for himself is the kind of success that makes us incredibly proud.

Jonathan’s journey reminds us that with the right support and encouragement, every child can find their own path forward.