KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Education has announced that all schools across the island will suspend face-to-face classes and transition to remote learning effective Thursday in anticipation of the potential impact of Tropical Storm Melissa.

The decision, made in consultation with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), comes as forecasters warn of heavy rains and possible flooding in several areas by Thursday afternoon.

Portfolio Minister Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon emphasised that the safety of students, teachers and staff remains the ministry’s top priority.

“The safety and well-being of our students, teachers and staff must always come first,” she said.

Minister Morris Dixon explained that the storm’s path remains uncertain, but precautionary steps are necessary as the eastern parishes are expected to experience the first effects of the system.

“Based on current forecasts, we expect to feel the effects of the system on the eastern parishes in the late afternoon tomorrow. As a result, out of an abundance of caution we have directed schools to transition to remote learning. All schools are encouraged to make full use of virtual platforms, and where that it not possible, to provide take-home materials so that every child can continue learning safely from home,” she said.