MoET & DES Announce Hybrid Start for Layman E. Scott Snr. High School

The Ministry of Education & Training (MoET), in collaboration with the Department of Education Services (DES), has announced that Layman E. Scott Snr. High School will begin the 2025–2026 academic year with hybrid instruction. This change aims to facilitate the safe completion of asbestos remediation work scheduled to commence at the institution in the coming days.

Hybrid instruction, also known as blended learning, refers to a teaching approach that combines online and in-person learning experiences. It integrates traditional classroom methods with online educational materials and activities, offering students flexibility and a potentially more engaging learning environment.

The announcement follows the identification of asbestos-containing material in a section of the roof and in the tilework of one classroom during testing conducted in late June.

Although the material remains contained and undisturbed, and there is no indication of immediate risk, the Ministry has elected to act out of an abundance of caution.

“Once I was apprised of the situation, I called for comprehensive testing to be carried out, ensuring that the matter is resolved with the urgency, transparency, and diligence it deserves,” said Minister of Education & Training, Hon. Rolston Anglin.

The Minister’s message was delivered during a series of virtual briefings held with educators and parents yesterday (Wednesday, 6 August). A recorded version of his message has also been made available online at https://bit.ly/4mwFRPB .

Acting Senior School Improvement Officer for Cayman Brac schools, Mr. Devon Bowen, also attended the meetings, and committed to sharing the details of the operational changes with parents and staff in the coming week.

The DES is currently finalising discussions with certified environmental professionals to undertake a full remediation and provide oversight, ensuring that service delivery meets the highest industry standards.

“Once remediation has begun, no student or member of staff will return to campus until all works are complete and the final air quality results confirm that it is safe to do so,” said Minister Anglin.  “We understand the inconvenience this may cause to some families, but safety must remain our highest priority.”

Hon. Nickolas DaCosta, Minister for District Administration and Home Affairs and elected Member of Parliament for Cayman Brac West & Little Cayman, also attended the briefings and expressed his support for the precautionary approach.

“As the elected representative for the district and a former student of this very school, I am deeply committed to the safety and wellbeing of our students, teachers, and families.

While these temporary adjustments may cause some inconvenience, they are essential to safeguard the long-term health and safety of our community. I commend Minister Anglin, and the Department of Education Services for their decisive and transparent action. Rest assured, we are taking all necessary steps to resolve this issue promptly, and we look forward to resuming normal school operations with complete confidence in the safety of our learning environment.”

A summary of the final air quality test results will be published on the school’s webpage at https://schools.edu.ky/lshs . Find the June 2025 Air Fiber Sampling Test Results online at https://www.gov.ky/education/publications .

The MoET and DES will continue to provide timely updates and support to affected stakeholders throughout the remediation process.

“This is about reaffirming our collective responsibility to maintain environments that are secure, healthy, and future-ready,” Minister Anglin added.

Learn more about Cayman Islands Government schools at https://schools.edu.ky .