SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Early Learners BookStart Campaign 2026 came to a joyful close on Saturday, September 19, with a Grand Celebration at Emilio Wilson Park. Approximately 100 children, parents, caregivers, and community members joined the Sint Maarten Library for an afternoon filled with stories, music, movement, and imagination.
The celebration began with the Generation New Status Drumband leading the young readers in a lively parade, followed by story time with the Honourable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, Melissa Gumbs. The Minister, who recently became a library member, selected Two Squabbling Squirrels as her book.
American Medical University of the Caribbean (AUC), a major supporter of the event, engaged the children with an entertaining puppet show that brought stories to life. Poet Sabie, Audrey Claxton, shared a special poem with parents on the importance of engaging young children in reading. Parents also joined in musical chairs, experiencing firsthand that reading with children is not only about the words on a page, but also about play, laughter, interaction, and imagination.
Throughout the campaign, children and families enjoyed story time sessions and meaningful community collaborations. Special thanks go to author Ingrid T. Fyffe for sharing story time and donating books to support young readers and to Collective Prevention Services (CPS) for its collaboration. Author Amy Arrindell also engaged parents and caregivers through her “Restore in Color” workshop.
The campaign also brought together professionals and community voices for a panel discussion on early childhood development, literacy, and supporting young learners. The panel featured Chevon James of P2C, D’Antoinette Roger-Sorton of Enable Holistic OT, Lorraine Leacock Educator, and Ivanca Sterling of CPS, moderated by Ingeborg de Weever. The panel discussion will be available virtually at the end of September.
Special recognition goes to the Mistress of Ceremonies, Mrs. Glenda Valies-York, whose warmth, energy, and professional hosting helped keep the Grand Celebration engaging and enjoyable from beginning to end. The Sint Maarten Library commends Mrs. Valies-York for a wonderful job and sincerely appreciates her contribution to the success of the celebration.
However, the Grand Celebration was more than a closing event it captured the spirit and impact of the 2026 Early Learners BookStart Campaign.
The Sint Maarten Library extends sincere appreciation to all the community readers, partners, volunteers, authors, parents, caregivers, and supporters who helped make the campaign a joyful celebration of reading.
The journey continues. Join us in 2027 as we continue to celebrate reading, imagination, and the joy of discovery with our Early Learners. Together, let us keep turning pages, creating memories, and building a love for reading: one little reader at a time.
