U.S. Virgin Islands (May 9, 2025) — The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority”) is proud to join the national celebration of Drinking Water Week, observed May 4 to May 10, with a series of engaging and educational events for students and community members on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.
Drinking Water Week, sponsored by the American Water Works Association, highlights the importance of safe drinking water and the people who make it possible. To mark the occasion, the WAPA Communications Team, along with WAPA engineers and members of the Water Maintenance Crew, visited Jane E. Tuitt Elementary School and John H. Woodson Junior High School on St. Croix on May 8, 2025, and Julius E. Sprauve School on St. John on May 9, 2025, to educate students about the water purification process and the importance of water conservation.
Through interactive classroom presentations, students learned about the
reverse osmosis process — a method used by our partner, Seven Seas Water Group, to convert ocean water into safe, drinkable water, which is vital to our community. To make learning fun and memorable, WAPA staff led a variety of hands-on activities. Students played the "Fix the Leaky Faucet" game to understand the importance of repairing water leaks. They built model aquifers to demonstrate how nature filters groundwater and participated in water conservation games that encouraged mindful water use.
“This week gives us the chance to highlight the essential infrastructure and dedicated teams that keep water flowing in our communities,” said Don Gregoire, Interim Chief Operating Officer of Water Systems. “We’re proud to share this knowledge with the community, especially our youth.”
In addition to the school visits, WAPA hosted community popup events at its business offices on St. Croix and St. John, where staff engaged with the public and shared information about ongoing
water infrastructure projects and practical water conservation tips. These events provided a valuable opportunity for residents to ask questions, learn more about infrastructure improvements, and discover ways they can contribute to sustainable water use.
WAPA extends its appreciation to the Department of Education, educators, and community partners who helped make this initiative a success.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.