KRALENDIJK - The Public Entity Bonaire (PEB) is deploying liaison officers to better connect students, parents, and schools. Recently, those involved gathered for an intervision session to share experiences and further improve the approach.
The initiative comes from the Alliance for Equal Opportunities, a collaborative partnership focused on equal educational opportunities for all children on Bonaire. The Community and Care directorate of the OLB runs the program in cooperation with school boards and other organizations in the care and welfare sector.
A liaison officer collaborates with schools and partners in the social sector to identify problems early and find appropriate assistance. Liaison officers serve as an accessible point of contact: they listen, build trust, map out where help is needed, and refer people to the right organization. In this way, they strengthen the connection between home, school, and other parties involved. The underlying principle is that every child, regardless of the circumstances in which they grow up, gets the opportunity to develop well and succeed in school.
Close to the community
During the intervision session, Deputy Silberie emphasized the importance of a personal approach. "Behind every request for help lies a person, a family, and a story. First listen to what that person truly needs, and only then look at how our systems and organizations can provide the right support", said Silberie. The intermediary workers also form part of the Integrated Safety Policy of the office of the Lieutenant Governor.
