The impact of immigration on St Croix\u27s public schools with emphasis on administrative and curricular policies: 1964-1994

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which immigrant student enrollment impacted public schools in St. Croix between 1964 and 1994. The experiences of eight immigrant families who migrated with school age children to St. Croix during the period preceding the availability of free public schooling were also documented.The primary sources of data used in this study were interviews with administrators and annual reports written by the Commissioner of Education to the Governor of the Virgin Islands. Additional sources included the United States Constitution, the Virgin Islands Code, court rulings, reports, newspapers, and unpublished documents. Research data indicated that the placement of immigrant students in public schools had a negative impact on building and classroom space, instructional personnel, and finances. Expansion of existing programs and the creation of new programs also resulted from the placement of immigrant students.Interviews with immigrant families sought information on personal experiences regarding the social realities, educational services available and perceived outcomes for themselves and their children. They were presented as case studies. Interviews also provided limited verification on the parameters (space, personnel, finances and educational programs) under study.Data indicated that the enrollment influx of immigrant students resulted in overcrowded conditions that necessitated expenditure of additional financial resources over an extended period. A major portion of the government\u27s revenues was reallocated to provide educational services in the form of increased physical facilities, expansion and creation of educational programs, and to recruit, hire and train additional instructional staff.Recommendations for working successfully with immigrant student groups were formulated as a result of interviews with administrators and families. Recommendations for the current practitioners and future research were also presented