KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Education says there are no directives for school closures at this time, despite a tropical storm watch being in effect for the island.

The ministry, in a media release on Tuesday, said it remains in constant communication with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and noted that Tropical Storm Melissa has slowed significantly, and a further decrease in forward speed is projected.

“The safety of our students, teachers and the entire school community remains our highest priority,” said Education Minister Senator Dana Morris Dixon.

“I am encouraging our boards and principals to stay in close contact with their regional directors for real-time guidance, and to maintain communication with parents and guardians. I am especially urging parents to be on alert for updates from their child’s institution. As a ministry, we have maintained constant dialogue with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica to ensure timely, accurate information reaches our schools, their staff and our families. We will continue to provide more information as it becomes available from the relevant authorities,” she added.

The ministry said school boards and principals have been urged to assess their local circumstances carefully and make informed decisions regarding school operations, under the guidance of their regional directors.

The ministry also encouraged stakeholders to remain vigilant and to take the necessary precautions to ensure personal safety as the system continues to be monitored.