Government Clarifies Salary Grant Arrangements for Government-Assisted Schools

The Government of Dominica has issued clarifications regarding the payment of salary grants to government-assisted schools after taking note of a letter circulated by staff of the St. Mary’s Academy (SMA) on February 4, 2026.

In a statement issued in the interest of accuracy and public understanding, the Government explained that government-assisted schools operate as independent institutions. These schools receive a monthly grant from the Government to help with the payment of staff salaries.

The Government further clarified that, with the exception of St. Martin Primary, St. Luke’s Primary and St. John’s Primary Schools, teachers at government-assisted schools are not public officers. As such, salary payments are managed by the respective school authorities and not directly by the Government.

However, through the Ministry of Finance, the Government maintains an established practice of ensuring that grants to government-assisted schools are paid no later than the last business day of each month, once all required conditions are satisfied.

Despite staff at these institutions not being Government employees, the administration says it has consistently supported them through salary grants and the facilitation of negotiated salary increases and back-pay. This includes the recent 3% and 2% salary adjustments agreed upon with the Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT).

The Government acknowledged the vital role played by government-assisted and private schools in the national education system and encouraged employers at these institutions to collect grants promptly once they become available, in order to facilitate timely payment to staff.

Reaffirming its commitment to education across all sectors, the Government of Dominica said it encourages continued dialogue and cooperation to address concerns constructively and in the best interest of both students and teachers.