Curaçao Education Inspectorate Strengthens Oversight Through Cooperation in the Netherlands
WILLEMSTAD, THE HAGUE – The Curaçao Education Inspectorate has carried out a working visit to the Inspection Council and the Academy for Supervision in The Hague, marking the start of a professional development program for inspectors in the Netherlands.
The delegation consisted of Ilona Berggraaf, Tisha Winklaar, Chantilly Steward, Gianward La Croes, Raily Goedgedrag (Inspector General), Germaine Rekwest (Strategic Advisor to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport), and Elvy Verton (Ministry of Interior and Kingdom Relations). The Curaçao delegation was received by Ytzen Renema, Karen Brouwer, and Hansje Hooghiemstra on behalf of the Academy for Supervision.
During the meetings, participants were introduced to the roles and working methods of both the Inspection Council and the Academy for Supervision. Discussions also focused on supervisory practices and the position of oversight within a broader social context.
As part of the program, the delegation also conducted a working visit to the Dutch Education Inspectorate in Utrecht. There, they were welcomed by Director Rutger Pol, along with Rianne Boehmer and Daisy Hombergen.
During the visit on March 31, 2026, several key topics were explored, including:
· The relationship between education policy and supervision, including interaction with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) and involvement in policy and legislative development;
· Data collection, analysis, and systematic research as the foundation for effective and independent supervision;
· Compulsory education, suspension and expulsion, and the role of oversight in these areas.
In addition, the inspectors participated in practical inspection activities, including meetings with school management, school visits, and the preparation of inspections. This hands-on component is intended to strengthen knowledge, skills, and professional judgment.
The customized program for Curaçao inspectors also includes training sessions led by experts from the Academy for Supervision, focusing on:
· Writing inspection reports;
· Systematic information gathering and analysis;
· Objective observation and assessment;
· Effective intervention and communication.
With this professionalization program, the Curaçao Education Inspectorate is investing in the development of its inspectors and strengthening independent, high-quality oversight. The knowledge and experience gained will be used to further improve educational supervision on the island and contribute to long-term improvements in education quality.