WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao is facing a growing crisis in special education as the demand for placements continues to far exceed available capacity. Minister of Education Sithree “Cey” van Heydoorn has described the situation as “alarming”, with dozens of children currently unable to access the specialized support they need. 

According to the minister, there is a significant number of children on the island who require special education, but schools are already at full capacity. While an additional special needs school has been opened to help alleviate the pressure, it was immediately overwhelmed by demand. 

“The need is great, and we’re simply not keeping up,” said Minister Van Heydoorn in an interview with the local press. “Even the new special education department we opened at the Myrna Dovale School is already full.” 

70 Children Without a Place 

Currently, 70 children are registered for special education for the upcoming academic year, but no space is available to accommodate them. This shortfall highlights a structural gap in Curaçao’s educational system, especially in meeting the needs of students with learning or behavioral challenges. 

Special education is offered by both public and private institutions on the island. While private foundations operate their own specialized schools, public education authorities have attempted to expand capacity, but the resources and infrastructure remain limited. 

Urgent Need for Solutions 

Minister Van Heydoorn emphasized the urgency of the situation and said the Ministry of Education is exploring additional solutions, including expanding existing programs, hiring specialized staff, and potentially opening more special education facilities. 

However, until those solutions are implemented, many children will continue to wait, raising concerns among parents and educators about how these delays could affect their development and well-being. 

The minister has called for broad community support and long-term investment in special education to ensure that every child in Curaçao receives the tailored education they deserve. Further updates are expected as the ministry assesses options to expand access before the new school year begins.