The St Dominic High students.
SOUTH REWARD--St. Dominic High School's annual Job Shadow Week concluded successfully on June 19, providing students with a valuable opportunity to experience the realities of the professional world while exploring potential career paths across a variety of industries.
A total of 54 Form 4 students participated in the week-long initiative, which took place from June 15 to June 19, 2026. Through placements with businesses and organisations across St. Maarten, students gained first-hand exposure to workplace environments, professional expectations, and the skills required to succeed in today's workforce. Job Shadow Week is designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by providing students with practical career exposure while helping them develop a deeper understanding of the responsibilities, expectations, and opportunities associated with various professions.
In preparation for their placements, students participated in a comprehensive career readiness programme facilitated by St. Dominic High School’s Career Counsellor and IB Programme Coordinator, Gisella Reijna- Hilliman.
Throughout the preparation process, students received guidance on professional workplace behaviour, business etiquette, effective communication, and appropriate workplace attire. They also learned how to develop professional resumes and cover letters, which were submitted to their assigned host companies prior to the start of the programme.
Feedback from participating companies has been overwhelmingly positive. Many employers praised students for their professionalism, enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and positive attitudes throughout the week. Several host organisations noted that students adapted well to their work environments and demonstrated genuine interest in learning about their respective industries.
Students likewise described the experience as highly rewarding and impactful. Many shared that the opportunity provided valuable insight into careers they are considering pursuing, while also helping them better understand workplace professional expectations.
Reijna-Hilliman expressed her appreciation to the organisations that generously hosted students this year: "Job Shadow Week is possible because of the support and commitment of our business community. We are sincerely grateful to every company and organisation that welcomed our students, shared their knowledge and expertise, and provided meaningful learning experiences. By investing your time and resources in our young people, you are helping to prepare the next generation of professionals and leaders of St. Maarten. We deeply appreciate your partnership and look forward to continuing these valuable collaborations in the future."
The success of this year's programme reflects the strong partnership between St. Dominic High School and the many businesses and organisations that continue to invest in the development of St. Maarten's youth. St. Dominic High School extends their sincere appreciation to all businesses and organisations that registered as partners to make Job Shadow Week 2026 a success.
They are especially grateful to the following companies and organisations that hosted students this year: American University of the Caribbean (AUC), Brydent Dental Clinic, Windward Islands Bank, Cabinet of the Prime Minister, Chamber of Commerce, Department of Civil Registry, Department of Social Development, Dutch Quarter Clinic, Duty Free World, Hoeve and Rogers
Attorneys, JW Marriott Hotel, Keller Williams Real Estate, Limitless Infrastructure, Madame Estate Clinic, MVG Technology, Orco Bank, Princess Juliana International Airport, PORT St. Maarten, Pure Health, Section Labor Market, Sentinel Consultancy, St. Maarten Laboratory (SLS), Sol Antilles, St. Maarten Airways, WINAIR, Student Support Services, SZV, SHTA, Tortuga Maho, TrakX Design and Zamora-Perez Clinic.
At the conclusion of Job Shadow Week 2026, participating companies received Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of their contribution to the programme and their commitment to youth development.
