ST. THOMAS — The V.I. Department of Education has issued its first formal response to the arrest of assistant principal Clifton Boyd, stating that its internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct remains active and that safeguarding students continues to be its highest priority.
In the statement, issued Friday, VIDE confirmed it “is aware of the recent arrest of Mr. Clifton Boyd, an assistant principal in the St. Thomas–St. John School District,” and emphasized that the department has been “actively and thoroughly investigating allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct by Mr. Boyd.” Officials said that work “remains ongoing despite the arrest.”
VIDE stressed that any misconduct involving students represents a profound violation of its mission. “Any form of misconduct especially conduct that violates the safety, dignity, and trust of our students is unacceptable and has no place within our school system,” the department wrote. “If the allegations are proven true, it is deeply regrettable that such behavior was committed by an employee entrusted with the care of our students.”
The department said it is “fully committed to supporting all potential victims in every way possible” and reassured families that “student safety is and will always remain our highest priority.”
VIDE also noted that it has reiterated to leadership personnel across the system the importance of mandatory reporting obligations. According to the statement, the department “continues to provide annual training to ensure compliance with reporting requirements,” underscoring the role administrators and educators must play in identifying and reporting concerns involving students.
The department said it will continue to work closely with investigators. “The VIDE will continue to cooperate fully with local and federal law enforcement agencies throughout the course of this investigation,” the statement read. Officials added that they remain “steadfast in our responsibility to protect the well-being of every child in our care and to hold accountable anyone who violates that trust.”
The department did not provide additional details about its internal findings, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
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