Skippings Appointed As Deputy Director of Special Education Needs Services
The Office of the Deputy Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands is pleased to announce the promotion of Mrs. Lashaunda Skippings to the position of Deputy Director of the Department of Special Education Needs Services within the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture.
Mrs. Skippings began her career in education in 2011 as a Special Education Teacher at Enid Capron Primary School, where she established a strong foundation in supporting students with diverse learning needs. She later served at Thelma Lightbourne Primary School, advancing through a number of leadership positions, including Special Education Programme Coordinator for Zone 2 in Providenciales and Vice Principal.
Over the course of her career, Mrs. Skippings has made significant contributions to the advancement of special education services across the Turks and Caicos Islands. She has been instrumental in supporting educators, enhancing student services, and promoting inclusive learning environments. Most recently, she served as Coordinator of Assessments within the Department of Special Education Needs Services and as a Quality Assurance Officer within the Ministry of Education.
With fourteen years of dedicated service, Mrs. Skippings has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional growth, and a steadfast commitment to improving educational outcomes. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Liverpool John Moores University, a Bachelor of Education in Special Education, and a Diploma in Special Education from The Mico University College in Jamaica.
In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Mrs. Skippings is a certified trainer for the National Screening Tool – Ages and Stages Developmental Screener, supporting the early identification and intervention of developmental needs among children. She is also deeply committed to youth development, serving as a Youth Ministry Leader at Firm Foundation Ministries International, where she mentors and guides young people within the community.
As Deputy Director, Mrs. Skippings will provide strategic and operational leadership in support of the Director and the department’s mandate. Her responsibilities will include overseeing the national student referral and assessment systems, guiding the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and driving the continuous enhancement of special education programmes throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. She will also play a key role in strengthening partnerships with local, regional, and international stakeholders while leading a multidisciplinary team to ensure the effective delivery of services and implementation of policies.
The Office of the Deputy Governor congratulates Mrs. Skippings on this well-deserved promotion and wishes her continued success in her new role.
40 Irregular Migrants Intercepted in Providenciales
Shortly after 5 am on Monday June 22nd 2026, the Marine Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force intercepted a vessel suspected of being involved in illegal migration as it made its way toward Providenciales.
Based on information received, the Coastal Radar Unit reported tracking a vessel outside
Northwest Point.
The Marine Branch was notified, and during the operation, officers intercepted a vessel
measuring approximately 36 to 38 feet in length, transporting FORTY (40) persons.
The vessel was secured and towed to shore, where all relevant agencies coordinated their
response.
The irregular migrants were subsequently handed over to the Turks and Caicos Islands Border
Force for processing.
The police force is asking the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 649-231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to anonymously provide any information on illegal entry into the TCI.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share
information anonymously.
The Bight Park in Providenciales Temporarily Closed
The general public is being advised that the Bight Park, in Providenciales will be closed from June 22nd - June 28th 2026 to facilitate scheduled refurbishment works.
During this period, access to the park will be restricted to ensure the safe and efficient completion of essential works.
The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) apologizes for any inconvenience this temporary closure may cause and appreciates the public’s cooperation and understanding.
Please note that these works form part of a broader refurbishment initiative aimed at enhancing the Bight Park. The Department remains committed to maintaining a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for all visitors and residents alike.
The department will continue to keep the public informed on project updates.
Temporary Change in Clinical Services on Grand Turk
The Ministry of Health and Human Services, Primary Health Care Department, wishes to advise residents of Grand Turk and Salt Cay of a temporary change in clinic services on Grand Turk from 22 - 26 June 2026.
During this period, the clinic will remain open and operational, with nursing staff available to provide assistance. However, Medical Officers will be participating in essential training and will not be available for routine consultations.
Patients requiring consultation by a doctor during this time are advised to visit the Cockburn Town Medical Centre. In the event of a medical emergency, please dial 911 immediately.
The Ministry apologizes for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s understanding as we continue to strengthen the capacity of our healthcare team.
3 DAY PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST MONDAY JUNE 22ND 2026
PUBLIC FORECAST FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FOR THE NEXT THREE DAYS FROM MONDAY JUNE 22ND 2026
GENERAL SITUATION: A plume of Saharan Dust continues to cover the Turks and Caicos Islands, while high pressure ridging will continue to support breezy conditions across the islands today.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: A Dust Advisory is in effect for the Turks & Caicos Islands. Moderate Saharan dust concentrations are affecting the aforementioned areas, reducing visibility and impacting air quality. Residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, should take the necessary precautions to safeguard their health.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: Partly sunny and hazy today. Mostly fair with isolated showers possible tonight.
WINDS: East to southeast at 15 to 25 knots
SEA STATE: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet, building up to 5 feet offshore.
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 91°F 33°C
HEAT INDEX 102°F 39°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 79°F 26°C
SUNSET: 07:34 PM
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 03:37 PM (2.3 FT)
NEXT LOW TIDE: 10:03 PM (1.0 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: High pressure will maintain breezy conditions and slight to moderate seas through the rest of the week. A second surge of Saharan dust is expected, bringing continued hazy skies, very warm temperatures, and little to no rainfall across the islands.
TUESDAY: Partly sunny, with a high near 91°F (33°C).
TUESDAY NIGHT: Mostly fair, with a low around 81°F (27°C).
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 to 20 knots
SEA STATE: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 06:07 AM
SUNSET: 07:34 PM
HIGH TIDE: 03:58 AM (2.3 FT) 04:39 PM (2.6 FT)
LOW TIDE: 10:11 AM (1.0 FT) 11:12 PM (1.0 FT)
WEDNESDAY: Isolated showers possible. Partly sunny, with a high near 91°F (33°C).
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: A low (10 percent) chance of isolated showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 81°F (27°C).
WINDS: Easterly at 10 to 15 knots
SEA STATE: Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 06:07 AM
SUNSET: 07:34 PM
HIGH TIDE: 04:58 AM (2.0 FT) 05:36 PM (2.6 FT)
LOW TIDE: 11:04 AM (1.0 FT) - - - - -
TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK: Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
Largest Cocaine Bust in Australia's History
Australian police have seized 2.7 metric tons (3 tons) of cocaine in the largest drug bust in the nation’s history, authorities announced on Monday.
The narcotic, cocaine was discovered on June 19th at a semi-rural property in Londonderry, on Sydney’s western outskirts.
According to the Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce, the drugs were concealed in plastic containers buried in underground bunkers beneath three shipping containers fitted with false floors that provided access to the stash.
Police estimate the cocaine has a street value of approximately A$816 million (US$572 million).
Two Sydney men, aged 21 and 25, were arrested at the property and charged with possessing a commercial quantity of an illicit drug. If convicted, they could face life imprisonment.
The seizure surpasses Australia’s previous record cocaine bust of 2.34 metric tons, which was intercepted from a fishing vessel near K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) off the Queensland coast in 2024.
Australia remains a highly attractive destination for drug traffickers because cocaine commands some of the highest prices in the world on the Australian market.
Dunn's River Falls Recognized in TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice Awards
Dunn’s River Falls and Park has been recognized as a winner in the 2026 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, placing the iconic Jamaican attraction among the top 10% of attractions worldwide based on visitor reviews and ratings.
The recognition, announced Wednesday, is based on consistently positive reviews submitted by travellers over a 12-month period. According to the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), which manages the attraction, the award reflects excellence in customer experience, service delivery, environmental stewardship and destination management.
The UDC described the recognition as another milestone for Jamaica’s tourism sector and the country’s global tourism brand.
Dunn’s River Falls remains one of Jamaica’s most significant natural and cultural landmarks.
Located in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, Dunn’s River Falls and Park is one of the Caribbean’s most visited attractions, drawing visitors with its signature waterfall-climbing experience, beach access and eco-tourism offerings.
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer Announces Resignation
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday that he would step down as both Labour Party leader and prime minister, paving the way for the United Kingdom to have its seventh prime minister in just ten years.
Starmer said he had spoken with King Charles and expected to remain in office until the Labour Party selects a successor.
Having led Labour Party since 2020, Starmer became prime minister after the party’s victory in the 2024 general election.
He said he had asked party officials to begin the nomination process for a new leader on July 9. While he did not specify an exact departure date from 10 Downing Street, he said he anticipated a new prime minister would be in place by September, when Parliament returns from its summer break.
The announcement follows months of political turbulence for Starmer. Critics within his Labour Party argued that his government had failed to deliver the pace of change voters expected after 14 years of Conservative rule.
Pressure on Starmer intensified after May’s local elections, in which the Labour Party lost more than 1,000 council seats. Many party members viewed the results as a clear rebuke of the government’s performance and subsequently urged him to resign.
Although no formal leadership challenge had been launched by Monday, support had increasingly gathered around Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, as a potential successor.
Burnham, who won a by-election on Friday to become the Member of Parliament for Makerfield, was expected to be sworn into the House of Commons on Monday and also Following Starmer’s announcement, he confirmed on social media that he would seek a nomination in the upcoming Labour Party leadership contest.
The Bight MP Hon. Audric Skippings Says Recent Fire Calls For Station In Tourism District
A vehicle fire that spread to four cars at Grace Bay Club on Wednesday, June 17, has ignited concerns from the newly elected MP for the Bight, Audric Skippings, over the absence of a dedicated fire station in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ primary tourism district, despite no injuries being reported.
The incident began during the afternoon when a resort employee’s vehicle caught fire while parked on the property. The blaze quickly spread to three additional vehicles before emergency crews were able to control the fire.
Hon. K. Audric Skippings, Member of Parliament for ED6, The Bight, described the incident as a “wake-up call” for the Turks and Caicos Islands.
In a statement on June 17th, Hon. Skippings stated:
“Grace Bay is the economic engine of our tourism industry, home to world-class resorts, thriving businesses, and thousands of visitors every day. It is also home to hardworking residents and employees who deserve the same level of emergency protection as every other community.”
Despite being the territory’s premier tourism destination, Grace Bay currently lacks its own fire station. Fire crews must respond from other parts of Providenciales, a situation Hon. Skippings said can result in critical delays during emergencies.
Skippings urged the government to prioritize the construction of a fully staffed and properly equipped fire station in the Grace Bay district, arguing that the need extends beyond protecting tourism assets.
According to Skippings, a dedicated fire station would significantly improve emergency response times, strengthen public safety, protect multimillion-dollar investments, and provide greater peace of mind for residents, workers, business owners, and tourists alike.
He emphasized that as the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to grow, its emergency services infrastructure must keep pace with development.
The Member of Parliament also warned against waiting for a more serious incident before taking action.
“The time to act is now, We should not wait for another major emergency to remind us of what is at stake. A dedicated fire station in Grace Bay is not a luxury—it is a necessity.”
Graduation Season In Turks and Caicos Approaching
Graduation season is here... students are now finished with high school and preparing for college studies or the working world.
The top performing students across our public high schools have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement.
At HJ Robinson High School in Grand Turk (HJRHS), Brianna Williams earned the title of Valedictorian with an impressive average of 93.90%, followed closely by Salutatorian Shakea Forbes with 93.76%, and Runner-Up Esmarlin Capron with 91.31%.
At Marjorie Basden High School over in South Caicos (MBHS), Ta’Halia Davidson secured the Valedictorian position with 90.56%, while Samantha Julcin and Abinasabia Prophet achieved 87.43% and 81.55% to claim the Salutatorian and Runner-Up spots respectively.
In Providenciales... Clement Howell High School (CHHS) saw Brantley Saul lead with 89.9% as Valedictorian, followed by Achenie Desir at 88.0%, Mercia Norve at 85%.
Lastly, at Raymond Gardiner High School (RGHS), the Green Machine in North Caicos... Tania Herrera emerged as Valedictorian with 81.80%, with Alecia Bobb (79.92%) and Lauren Oné (76.94%) rounding out the top three positions.
Three hundred twenty-seven (327) young men and women will formally exit our Public High Schools in graduation ceremonies to be hosted around the family islands between June 29th and July 2nd 2026.
H. J. Robinson High
June 29th @ the School’s Auditorium
Theme: Our Journey Begins: Embracing the Road Ahead with Courage and Determination
Marjorie Basden High
June 30th @ Saltera Resort Ballroom
Theme: Turning Our Moments Into Milestones
Raymond Gardiner High
July 1st @ Horse Stable Beach
Theme: Rising with Purpose, Rooted in Excellence
Clement Howell High
July 2nd @ Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex Theme: Unyielding in Pursuit, Unmatched in Potential
Graduation is not just about receiving a certificate—it represents growth, success, and preparation for a brighter future.
Congratulations classes of 2026! Your future is bright!