A Model for Success ROBUST PERFORMANCE

Transcription

CNMI Public School System
Students First
Founded
1947
Autonomy
Jan. 11, 1988
Accountability
June 2011
•
Responsibility
•
Transparency
Accountability
22 Teachers Finish Graduate Study; Touts New Innovation in Learning
14 Complete Education Degree P4
ROBUST PERFORMANCE
PSS SCHOOLS SCORE BIG ON SAT10
T
HE CNMI Public School System closed the school year 2010-2011 on a good note
even if it was faced with challenges at polar opposites—dwindling local resources and a growing student
population.
And even with the highs and lows, the
school districts was most successful with
its Stanford Achievement Test or SAT
10— one of the significantly important
benchmarks in student learning.
The CNMI-PSS scored a robust
increase in the 2011-series of SAT
10, with results on all grade levels
– Grades 3, 5, 6, 8,9, and 11 – beating the district’s 2010 results which
was already in the upward trend that
time. The latest result encompasses
all content areas: Reading, Math, Science and Social Studies.
Continue on... Page 5
Leadership Corps,
One of the Greatest
Successes
Commissioner’s File
Dr. Rita A. Sablan
‘If students are to be expected to learn to read in our schools, then it
should not be different that every parent and family in our community
must also do likewise.’
STUDENTS FIRST: Expectation, Hope and Achievement
A Model for Success
As the Public School System end School
Year 2010-2011, we invite you to read our
June Students First newsletter which feature many of the educational activities that
In their green and khaki uniforms, a
group of students paraded past a throng
of people during the Tinian Junior High
School Promotional Ceremony early this
month.
It was at the jam-packed Tinian Jr. High
School cafeteria that everyone were awed
by what they saw: a disciplined group of
young students performing a parade drill,
albeit ceremonial parade to honor their
peers who that day will be promoted to be
seniors.
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happened over the year. From expectations in
the classrooms that helped students improved
their learning outcomes, to hope of what was or
might have been experienced in school or in the
community, and finally to achievement –
the dream that we all desire of our children in this great Commonwealth.
From School to Home
to College, Nursing
Assistantship Brings
Out Empathy, Motivation
I
t has been a daily routine for
John Raymond Sablan to ensure
that his mother’s needs are ready
before he goes off to school. He
gives her medication and administers
the basic vital signs monitoring.
He remembers doing this since he
was eleven years old. At a young age,
he knew what care means.
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June 2011
Leadership
challenge is
Foundation
for Skills of
PSS cadets
ROTA- Ruth Torres of Kagman High School is among the
140 cadets of the Public School
System’s Junior Reserve Officers’
Training Corps that are on the island
undergoing the annual Cadet Leadership
Challenge.
“JCLC has helped me to open up,” said Torres, a staff
sergeant of KHS’s Ayuyu Battalion. “I am usually a shy
person and with this experience, by meeting new people,
it has allowed me to change.”
She added, “This program has taught me the value of
dedication, cooperation, communication, team work and
has boosted my confidence.”
JCLC is conducted around the world where JROTC
programs are present. With five locations spread
throughout the PSS campuses on Saipan, Tinian and
Rota, the program has become part of this global network that continuously trains and hones young men and
women to become citizens “with and of great respect,
self-discipline and confidence.”
Here in Rota, the 140 cadets are from the multiple
units from KHS, Marianas High School, Saipan Southern High School, Tinian High School and host unit, Rota
High School.
The selection process for the cadets to participate in
the annual JCLC is tough. It requires cadets and school
units to complete in readiness, protocol, physical endurance and practical skills.
“The selection process is not easy. We were selected
based on our (contributions) and sacrifices to the units
that we belong,” adds Torres.
For MHS’ Dolphin Battalion’s Rizza Butalon, being
part again of this program has broaden her perspective,
as a cadet and as a person.
“This is a great experience. I had the opportunity to
meet new people. Although the program is challenging,
it is doable. The JROTC JCLC is about communication,
teamwork and relying on each other to succeed,” said
Butalon a second lieutenant of the JROTC program for
MHS.
Retired Lt. Col. Robert Gay, the PSS-JROTC program
manager, said that over the years the JCLC program has
proven to be successful.
“We are fortunate to have the JROTC program in our
schools and be part of a community that embraces the
services we instill in our cadets,” Ret. Lt. Col Gay said, acknowledging the support PSS through Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan and the Board of Education.
Rota has been chosen for the annual JCLC partly
because it depicts the historical values that have been
learned by the cadets in training.
Three Wins for Stallion Battalion in Academic Bowl
The Tinian High School JROTC
Stallion Battalion departed Tinian on
June 19th to Rota for the JROTC Cadet
Leadership Challenge (JCLC). After three
long days of intensive training, along with
the cadets from Rota High School, Saipan
Southern High School, Marianas High School,
and Kagman High School, the encampment proved to
be a great success.
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push-ups and shuttle run, and the Softball tournament.
The cadets were extremely happy in receiving those
trophies for they have worked really hard to train for the
competitions. The Battalion Commander for the Stallion Battalion, C/LTC Mary M. Hocog mentions that
she is very proud of her cadets for all their hard work,
and was very surprised at the outcome.
She says, “I left Tinian, hoping to bring home at least
one trophy, but we ended up bringing home three! I
shall not consider this as my own achievement, but as
theirs.
The cadets participated in a variety of activities such
as rope bridge/knot tying, land navigation, first aid, a
leadership reaction course, and they also rappelled. Each
school also competed against each other in various categories including an athletics competition that consisted
of volleyball, basketball, and softball. The other categories that the cadets competed in were the academic challenge bowl, the cadet challenge, and the drill competition. With great teamwork and motivation, every school
gave their 110% and they all did an outstanding job.
presenting the trophies, and congratulating the cadets
on their achievement.
On the last day of the training was the awards ceremony, held in the evening and graced by the Mayor of
Rota, the Honorable Melchor Mendiola, and Rota High
School Principal Sharlene Manglona. They, along with
the JROTC Instructors and chaperones, took part in
After friendly competition, the Tinian High School
Stallion Battalion garnered 3 out of 5 trophies in the
Academic Bowl, which consisted of 27 questions from
the JROTC curriculum, the Cadet Challenge in which
cadets were tested on the one mile run, curl-ups, v-sit,
They all had it in them, all I needed to do was ensure
that they continued to be motivated, and that they didn’t
give up. I’m so proud of them!”
Each battalion brought home a trophy, and that was
splendid! With the whole experience, the cadets made
life long friends, and many of them realized that even if
they are from different islands, they are still one Commonwealth, one family, one heart.
The cadets loved Rota, and are very thankful for the
Buck Battalion for their hospitality. Mega Hooah!
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Teachers Discover New Innovation in Learning
22 Teachers Earn Graduate Study
from Framingham State University
‘I turn to you now for what you have gained over the years to continually work with me to fulfill a lifetime
dream that we all shareÑ A PREMIERE SCHOOL SYSTEM that puts STUDENTS FIRST in decisions that are
made, in educational programs that are implemented, and in school activities that are established.Õ
-Education Commissioner Dr. Rita Aldan Sablan spoke during the commencement exercise
E
ducational leaders and policymakers- even studies and researches – are
clear that teachers have more impact
on student achievement than any other school-based factors. In the Commonwealth,
the Public School System continues to make inroads on its investment in human capital.
tinction of the only agency in the Commonwealth to have vested knowledge that
elevates the quality of life and education.
“Besides learning new trends in education, a very important learning opportunity I received from the program was having the opportunity to dialogue with fellow
educators within the CNMI Public School
System. I was able to learn about what
their thoughts and insights are, and how
we can help in the continuous improvement of our education system,” says Lynette Villagomez, the current , T&FASEG
Program Director for the school district.
Along with classroom teachers, there are the school
administrators, counselors, and teacher aides as among
those that complete the student-classroom learning link.
The established links between student learning gains
and effective teaching practice within the CNMI Public School System is clear-cut with its outcome: growth
in student performance– a continuing challenge for the
school district as it continues to elevate the teaching profession as part of its role being the primary provider of
free and quality education in the islands.
For a group of educators, teachers have the unique opportunity to help improve best teaching practices , and
these can be accomplished by continuously educating
themselves.
Education Commissioner Dr. Rita A. Sablan hailed the
graduates as the “Added value to the world of professional educators.”
Recently, a group composed of 22 teachers and program managers earned their degree in Master’s of Arts
in International Teaching from Framingham State University.
“I want you to know that you are more than an added
value to the world of professional educators; you now
have the educational knowledge, the educational experience, and the educational skills needed to improve and
strengthen our educational system here in our Commonwealth,” said Education Commissioner Sablan.
They are the first cohort from the CNMI to graduate under a renamed Framingham State University. To
date, Framingham State University, one of the primary
teacher-training institutions in the country, have produced school administrators, teachers, school counselors
and educational leaders in the past years.
The CNMI-PSS’ innovative teaching practices and
classroom learning are breakthroughs that educational
experts believed are the steps in the right direction that
allows for students to thrive and grow under a 21st century learning skills.
“I turn to you now for what you have gained over the
years to continually work with me to fulfill a lifetime
dream that we all share—a premiere school system that
puts STUDENTS FIRST in decisions that are made,
in educational programs that are implemented, and in
school activities that are established,” adds Dr. Sablan, as
she reflects back on her quest to challenge herself to be
a better educator.
The 22 Framingham State university graduates are
now among the 275 professional staff within the PSS
that have master’s degree in education. PSS has the dis-
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Villagomez, who is also the Acting Assessment Coordinator, said the two-year
graduate program is another greatest
achievement gain that allowed public school teachers to
be immersed through extensive preparation on the advances in education.
Framingham State University, which has sent a pool
of its professors for the graduate program to the CNMI,
has offered a unique “distance graduate program” that
allowed participants to further their teaching education
without leaving the island.
“I believe that learning never stops. And when we
talk about learning, it includes us, teachers. We have to
constantly educate ourselves and through our Master’s
programs, we slowly are reaching our goals,” says Valerie
Mendiola.
Mendiola is only 27 years old and yet has six years in
public school teaching that includes a two-year stint at
Marianas High School and going on four years now at
Koblerville Elementary School as a 6th grade teacher.
Immediately after graduating college from the university of Hawaii at Hilo, Mendiola pursued teaching as a
career. In teaching, she had cri de Coeur of her responsibility as teacher. She can do more to better classroom
learning, and in 2009 she enrolled with Framingham
State University’s graduate program.
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June 2011
22 Teachers ... from Page 3
14 Complete
Education Degree
Winnifred Cabrera
Francisca Castro
Verna Reyes
Walter Mendez
Calvin Snodgrass
Desiree Masga
Meena Benavente
Shawna Chong
Katherine Mersai
Angelina Yobech
Linda Dowai
Joey Mostales
Patrick Antonio
Myang Ah Ko
“As teachers, we have to learn different methods
of teaching—and we can transfer what learn to our
classrooms, especially with our diverse student population,”
The Framingham State University Graduate
Study Cohorts are:
Lynette Villagomez,
Reading and T&FASEG Program Coordinator
Valerie Mendiola and Francis Mendiola,
Kobelrville Elementary School
Jonel (Jojo) Alepuyo, Leilani Iramk, Bobby James Cruz,
Anita Sablan and Alvin Sablan of Marianas High School
Janet Aniciete and Darrah Benavente-Tagabuel,
Saipan Southern High School
Tammy Cruz and Dornia Castro Salavaria,
WSR Elementary School.
Lorraine Arriola and Jeieljoy Inaba,
Garapan Elementary School
Luna Litulumar and Fred Salavaria,
Hopwood Jr. High School
Leora Ngirablosch,
San Antonio Elementary School
Kathy Pagapular,
San Vicente Elementary School
Raymond Peter Arriola,
Kagman Elementary School
Jolyn Attao, Kagman High School
Vince Camacho and Rosalina Cepeda, former PSS employees
“I continue to instill in my students that every year
and as we grow older we learn more. What I am now is
because of my (pursuit) to make a difference in my students’ lives,” adds Mendiola.
Meeting State
Requirements
While this may be an accomplishment for this group
of teachers, earning the Master’s Degree enabled them
to qualify or to complete one of the many requirements
spelled out under the Teacher Certification Process of
the school district.
The certification process is the CNMI-PSS’ way to increase the quality of teaching that also includes meeting
the mandatory praxis I and II examination requirement.
On July 8, 2004, the State Board of Education adopted
a policy that requires all PSS administrators, teachers,
counselors and program managers to pass the statemandated examination.
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To ensure that its teachers are successful, the CNMI
PSS for the past five years, has provided refresher courses to school personnel, tapping the expertise from partners such as the Northern Marianas College, University
of Guam and the Colorado-based educational thinktank, McREL.
While teachers, school administrators, counselors and
program managers are given until the end of July to meet
the state-mandated highly qualified personnel requirement, for the Framingham State University graduates,
it is a new opportunity for them to leverage their new
learning to public education.
“I am not perfect or for that matter, teachers are not
perfect. That is why we need to understand that in teaching there are new innovations that are constantly being
introduced,” explained Mendiola.
One outcome the cohort learned from the program
is the need to expand teachers’ level of understanding
of student learning, primarily because of the school system’s diverse student population.
“We have to be patient and sensitive to our students’
learning ability. When we immediately went back to the
classroom, I saw the real meaning of ‘responsibility’ in
(going out of the box) to allow our students to learn everything that we teache,” she added.
Home to over 11,000-plus students, the school district
continues to close the gap in student learning by providing effective 21st century teachers for every student.
While the district works on providing an adequate and
balanced teacher-student ratio, this remains a challenge
that can only be addressed if adequate support is given
to the district.
“As teachers, we have to learn different methods of
teaching—and we can transfer what we learn to our
classrooms, especially with our diverse student population,” says teacher Francis Mendiola, another member of
Cohort 8.
The opportunity given to the cohort to dialogue with
each other led to the “discovery” in new or better ways
to improve classroom teaching.
“Part of our program was to interact, and when we
were given that opportunity, we learned that even if we
work in different schools, we have only one goal, and that
is to help student achieve and learn more. One essential
approach is to be patient because each student has their
own unique way of learning,” he added.
As a Missing Link
The 22 recent graduates of Framingham State University is the 8th group from the CNMI. But all of them
agree that as teaching evolves constantly, teachers have to
cope up and be part of the change.
For them, earning the post-graduate study is the missing link.
“The program helps us understand that learning is an
ongoing process; about life discovery, being open minded, creative and innovative, as we become more effective
in our teaching practice. . It helps us discover the missing
links centered around education,” says Villagomez.
Along with Villagomez, Valerie Mendiola and Francis
Mendiola, the other public school teachers that received
their Master’s Degree in International Teaching are: Jonel
(Jojo) Alepuyo, Leilani Iramk, Bobby James Cruz, Anita
Sablan and Alvin Sablan of Marianas High School; Janet Aniciete and Darrah Benavente-Tagabuel of Saipan
Southern High School; Tammy Cruz and Dornia Castro
Salavaria of WSR Elementary School.
Lorraine Arriola and Jeieljoy Inaba of Garapan Elementary School; Luna Litulumar and Fred Salavaria of
Hopwood Jr. High School; Leora Ngirablosch of San
Antonio Elementary School; Kathy Pagapular of San
Vicente Elementary School; Raymond Peter Arriola of
Kagman Elementary School; Jolyn Attao of Kagman
High School; and two former PSS employees, Vince Camacho and Rosalina Cepeda.
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June 2011
Robust Performance... from Page 1
The latest result has emboldened further the school
district with its commitment of not only closing the gap
in student learning but ultimately produce high achieving graduates by transforming classroom learning to
reflect the 21st century skills. This transformation must
come with all needed support that has been elusive—or
lacking with the Commonwealth education system.
“What our PSS family achieved with SAT 10 results
gives validation on our students progress. It has been
driven by our continued pursuit to raise the level of
public education by providing the necessary tools to
complement learning,” Education Commissioner Dr.
Rita A. Sablan said in an interview with Students First.
The SAT 10 results for this school year is based on
the complete battery percentile rank, and putting the
SY 2010-2011 results along side the SY 2009-2010 outcome, the difference indicates increase in testing results
of core contents on all the identified six grade levels.
Under the CNMI-PSS’ Adequate Yearly Progress, the
demands—and growth in student learning has pushed
education leaders and policymakers, principally the Office of the Commissioner of Education and the State
Board of Education to maintain its plans for the school
system..
Under the Strategic Priorities PLUS One, the growth
pace of the school system has been augered by strong
push for equipping classroom learning with highly qualified personnel, new innovations in classroom teaching,
conducive and safe campuses, and strong family and
community involvement.
System-wide
SAT 10 is considered a system-wide norm reference
in a standardized testing format.
Released this month, the result was a bottom-to-top
achievement.
For Grade 3, student testing performed well this
school year by attaining an overall 33 percent percentile
growth, up from the 28 percentile that of last school
year.
For Grade 5, the result was 43 percentile, up from the
39 percentile performance in SY 2009-2010.
Another significant growth was for Grade 6 wherein
it rose by two notch up, to 42 percentile in SY 20102011 than of the 40 percentile in SY 2009-2010.
Grade 8 SAT 10 score results also jumped to 38 percentile this school year compared to the last school
year’s 33 percentile.
The highest jump was recorded at Grade 9 with students test results across all public schools. It jumped by
nine points to 43 percentile this recently-closed school
year. Last year Grade 9 students’ testing results were at
the 34-percentile rank.
For Grade 11, from 40 percentile rank in the prior
school year, it grew by four points to 44 percentile.
The complete battery results means all content areas
are scored—or everything that is identified as critical
areas to classroom learning are tested.
These include listening skills, thingking skills and the
3Rs, among others.
More with less
Academic achievement tops the priority of the school
district and for nearly ten years now results have been
clear: the school district has been doing more with less.
With 20 campuses, 10 Head Start Centers, 900-plus
personnel and over 11,100-student population, the
school district’s share of local government resources
has slipped for the last decade.
PSS received about $31 million in local funding this
fiscal year, the lowest in ten years. This figure however
does not reflect the actual cost of public education.
Aside from the costs associated to classroom/student
learning, the school district also coughs up for utility
cost— a challenge especially these days that the cost for
power and sewer has increased.
While it is faced with fiscal challenges, the school district has exercised fiscal restraint.
Responsibility, Accountability
Key to the school district’s success is its inherent ability to take responsibility and be accountable to everything related to a child’s education.
“As we focus in ensuring that academic achievement
is really our top priority, every year we monitor their
growth through SAT 10 and SBA, thus accountability
becomes vital to student learning,” says Associate Commissioner for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
Jackie Quitugua.
The school district, from its leaders and policymakers to classroom personnel, has also taken strong
stance that it is the “responsibility” of all stakeholders
involved that to ensure the target for student learning is
met, critical support must be in place.
As an indication of giving high emphasis on responsibility and accountability, SAT 10 results of the last
eight school years have increased.
From School Year 2003-2004, the overall complete
battery result hovered between the 20-to 25-percentile
to the 30-44 percentile level in SY 2010-2011.
What this means is that even in uncertain times, student academic achievement continue to rise while challenges remains, perhaps, continue to compound.
Strong Leadership... from Page 1
At the Saipan Southern High School Commencement
Exercise, the State BOE chairwoman acknowledged
that all public schools have achieved “growth” in terms
of student learning, and the school district was in “the
right direction”.
“We have believe that a learned community must be
supported and backed with everything that is essential
to learning, and we at the Board of Education have embraced and supported the vision of our Public School
System through our Education Commissioner, Dr. Rita
A. Sablan,” the State BOE leader added.
nized, norm reference standardized testing scored high.
The SAT 10 result for public schools on Saipan, Tinian
and Rota has become the hallmark of student achievement of the Commonwealth education system.
“We are proud of our public elementary, junior high
and senior high schools great progress. I and my colleagues have witnessed… of your great commitment
and conviction, dedication and perseverance. There is
great partnership. You all have championed changed
and embrace accountability, responsibility and continue
to be transpaprent.”
All grade levels that were tested under the widely recog-
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11 SSHS students complete the Nursing Assistantship Program
Two years ago as a junior student at Saipan Southern
High School, Sablan almost didn’t make it to the Nursing
Assistantship Program, the only within the Commonwealth being pioneered by CNMI Public School System
at his school. He got the 11th and last spot of the twoyear assistantship program for junior high school students.
“This program has changed my life, on how I see
things on people and value the importance of our every
day life,” says Sablan in an interview with Students First.
From his “home care” experience to his two-year participation of the Nursing Assistantship Program at SSHS,
eighteen years old Sablan was certain of his calling.
“It was a great help for me to be part of this class—it
helped me to be better and a caring individual,” he adds.
Sablan will pursue a career in nursing, and ultimately become the Commonwealth’s first cardiologist.
The Nursing Assistantship Program of Saipan Southern High School has become a model for success under the Career and Technical Education Program of the
CNMI Public School System. The CTE Program was
revived two years ago by Education Commissioner
Dr. Rita A. Sablan as the main vehicle for the school
district in building local capacity and investing in human capital.
ject under the CTE Program, the response was evident
from the students themselves.
It was an effective ladder program for the students,
preparing them as they pursue nursing or medical courses after high school.
“I joined because I had an interest in the medical filed
and it was a good experience,” said Kathleen Laurio, another cohort.
During the program, the students interned at the Commonwealth Health Center— a life-changing opportunity
for them.
“If there is anything that I have learned from the program is to be patient in dealing with (individuals with)
health problems. We have heard of so much (health) cases (and issues) but we lack the learning or there are still so
many elements to be learned when caring for someone
who is sick,” adds Laurio, who was awarded for Excellent Peformance in Caring during the June 16-pinning
ceremony.
As an off shoot to the former PSS Vocational Program, it was re-designed in 2009 to meet today’s local
workforce challenges. For two years now, the CTE
Program has piloted different programs that allows
public schools students to start early, by providing
them hands-on experience, training and education on
career-related pograms.
“The skill that you obtained is vital to your career in
nursing and you now play a role in the profession that
is much needed in our health care (industry) today,” said
Health Secretary Joseph Kevin P. Villagomez in his remarked to the students.
Appreciating the Value of Care
When the NA Program was started as an elective sub-
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“When I was young my mother has gone into operation (and I knew that I had to do something to help her
for her recovery). And I want to help,” Cruz says.
Now that she has received her certificate, “it is a dream
come true.”
“With my brother as an inspiration and my mother as
motivation, I asked my self, ‘ why not give it a try?”
Cruz was recognized as Top Nursing Assistant for
graduating with the highest GPA in the NA Program.
SSHS and the school district, as a whole, extends a special appreication to NA program instructors, registered
nurse Leticia Reyes and registered nurse Johnny Aldan..
Support
Designed as an extension in providing knowledge
about preparatory programs leading to the nursing degree, the Public School System leadership has strongly
endorsed the program, in turn, securing the partnership withCHC and WIA. The certification the students earned credits the course/program they earned
under the assistantship program will be credited once
they pursue a career in nursing.
During the pinning ceremony, Workforce Investment Agency Executive Director Edith Deleon Guerrero inspired the students to begin a lifelong commitment in helping the sick in the community. She
challenged the 11 cohorts to pursue their dream of
becoming registered nurses.
On June 16, the eleven senior high school students
of SSHS received their certificate of completion during a pinning ceremony held at the Pacific Island’s
Club’s Charley Cabaret.
This select-group of students made history by becoming the youngest certified nursing assistants—or
that have received recognition and certification to perform patient care, by the Commonwealth government
through the Department of Public Health, Workforce
Investment Agency in partnership with the CNMI Public School System.
after being inspired by her older brother, Mathew, a certified nursing assistant. She also had an early experience by
being there with her mother, who was sick at one time.
Everyday that the students interned at the hospital,
they have grown not only as the nurses’ support factor,
but they learned to appreciate the value if empathy and
care.
“It is amazing to see and be with people that even if
they are sick or unhealthy, they are strong and happy,”
shares Laurio, whose cherishes the days she have spent
time with patients.
“It is really rewarding. When you are with them, or
even to be in their shoes, you would know that they need
somebody to be with them, to understand what they
feel,” she said, adding that it was also a learning experiene for them.
It was a choice for Melanie Cruz to join the program
Together with Sablan, Laurio and Cruz, the others
that completed the NA Program were Jove Jen Taman, Melanie Ramon, Nicole Reyes, Su Jin Jeon, Coquina Teregeyo, Summer Palacios, Merey Len Denora
and Vivalyn Yangirelit.
By the start of the new school year this September,
these eleven graduates will pursue their life-long dreams
that were started early for them, by the CNMI Public
School System through their alma mater, Saipan Southern High School.
“Thank you PSS, thank you Saipan Southern High
School, thank you Principal Tudela for making this possible for us,” Cruz said.
Meanwhile, for John Raymond Sablan’s mother, Dr.
Celia B. Lamkin, she could never have been prouder of
her son.
“I am so impressed with the program. This will certainly help our need and shortage for nursing staff in the
CNMI.”
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June 2011
Leadership Corps... from Page 1
The junior high students are not your ordinary school
children. They are at the forefront in the promotion of
discipline and leadership. They are junior high school
students who carry the ideals of well-trained and wellrounded “bunch of kids.”
They belong to the Leadership Corps, a program that
was established in 2009 that is aimed to instill volunteerism, leadership, discipline and academic excellence. It is
a tuck-into-one program that has grown as a large inschool organization, creating young leaders and achievers
in various disciplines.
“One of the greatest things that the Public School System has established at the junior high scholl this past year
is the Leadership Corps,” said Education Commissioner
Dr. Rita A. Sablan as she spoke before the same crowd
at the Tinian Junior High School’s promotion early this
month.
Shepherded by the education chief as another vehicle
to develop and create high-achieving and highly-involved
junior students, the Leadership Program was piloted in
2009 on all junior high schools within the CNMI Public
School System – Hopwood Junior High School, ChaCha Oceanview Junior High School, Tinian Junior High
School and Dr. Rita H. Inos Junior High School on Rota.
At Hopwood Junior High School, they are at the forefront in assisting a safe and orderly campus by being involved in various leadership activities—which is similar
to that of ChaCha Oceanview Junior High School and
Dr. Rita H. Inos Junior High School.
“I congratulate (our Leadership Corps and their advisers) for continuously promoting discipline and responsibility which are essential to student learning,” adds the
education commissioner.
“We learn from each other and what we saw here toCommissioner’s File... from Page 1
Expectation
It is natural that at the beginning of every school year – school
norms are established so that students, parents, and families are
informed of what every student in school is expected of. We may
think of classroom rules as a first – but really, our expectation is focus beyond that. This expectation is called the instructional goal of
the Public School System. You hear about this through our Strategic Priorities Plus One, through Board of Education student and instruction policies and regulations, through our individual school accreditation process that speaks to learning and teaching, through
our school improvement efforts as outlined in our Success in Sight
such as the Fractal Experience, Power Walk Through, Balanced
Leadership and countless research based practices and strategies
that supports classroom instruction that works including the use of
technology.
Basic of the Public School System’s expectation of learning
is simply learning to read and reading to learning. In the primary years of our student’s experience in school – it is a must that
children learn to read. PSS has been engaged with Reading First
which promotes the use of scientifically based research in reading.
Research based instruction that works for our students. In addition,
Central Office has worked with the schools and their professional
learning communities on the 5 explicit instructions that children
must be taught if they are to learn to read. These are phonemes,
phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.
If students are to be expected to learn to read in our schools,
then it should not be different that every parent and family in our
community must also do likewise. This year we engaged in a partnership with KSPN2 to showcase reading programs that engaged
our community and students in reading activities. The interests of
students being read too has increased and the interests of students
picking up a book to read have also doubled. Our school librarians
have played a great role in the readership of our students as they
also initiated programs that engaged students in reading, watching
and coaching them to read, helping them to borrow books that are
at their reading levels, and assessing their reading skills to better
assist them in making decisions of books that are appropriate for
their reading levels. The Public School System only asked a few
moments of your time to read or have your child read to you daily
for at least 30 minutes. As Cha Cha Ocean View Jr. High School
reads on their school building “Drop everything and read”.
4print 15
day has continuously been replicated in our other public
junior high schools,” Dr. Sablan pointed out.
Leadership Excellence
The Leadership Program was designed as a multipronged curriculum. With its motto, “Leadership Excellence,” it has become an inspiration to many.
One of the discipline given high emphasis is leadership
development or with focus on leadership traits, followership skills, team skills, teamwork, oral communication
and drill/marching.
Like the Junior Reserves Officer Training Corps, the
members of the Leadership Corps are also taught about
citizenship, weighing in more about civics history and
current events.
gangs and drug awareness, values essential to the holistic development of a child have continuously been advanced.
The members of the program are taught also of readiness through the life skills curriculum that includes physical fitness, nutrition, first aid and map reading. Like his
counterparts on Saipan and Rota, 1st Sgt. Joe King, the
Tinian Jr. High School Leadership Corps advisor, has
been proud of the program.
“It encompasses discipline, respect, peer teaching, and
it prepares the students for the JROTC program. It will
help them to accelerate their promotion from the knowledge and skills they learn in Leadership Crops,” he said.
The Leadership Corps does not end in the classroom—or the moment the school bell rings.
The uniqueness of the program is also evident with
the curriculum on character education. From honesty/
responsibility to honor, justice/respect to peer pressure/
“They are expected to follow their creed even on or
off campus,” King added.
Hope
How do we define hope?
The Merriam Webster Dictionary has 11 different entries. For the
purpose of this message – Hope will be defined as a verb or as
a noun. As an intransitive verb – Hope is to cherish a desire with
anticipation and as a transitive verb – Hope is to desire with expectation of obtainment. As a noun – Hope is a desire accompanied by
expectation of or belief in fulfillment.
graders leaving the junior high school and seniors completing their
high school within PSS. For a student to be promoted from Junior
High School to High School – a student must obtain a minimum of
eleven (11) credits which include 2 credits of integrated literature,
reading, speaking and listening skills and integrated writing and
grammar, 2 credits of math which include pre-algebra and algebra,
2 credits of social studies which include geography, history, civics
and economics, 2 credits of integrated science, which include life,
earth and physical science, 1 credit of physical education, and a
semester of CTE, CCLHS, Music, Art and Computer Literacy.
In a child’s education, we as educators and policymakers, as
parents and guardians have to make decisions, with questions like
“Where to start? What should we teach? Or, what is the best approach to education?”—These are only some of the questions.
Every family and educators would ask the same question.
I define hope as a path to education; its broad definition makes it
unique by way how it is applied, perceived or viewed. In our public
education context, hope is considered as “beyond belief” that there
is a better future in what we do.
As a grandparent and parent, - it is our hope that our children
and grandchildren will achieve success in school and with their
lives.
This is certainly anticipation of and an expectation of obtainment. The PSS management and staff in the same manner hopes
that every student who comes our way are prepared to be a productive and contributing members of our island community and the
world they live in. With this said, we have just made a case for our
families and island community that we want nothing less but a well
educated child for this Commonwealth. As we move forward – let
us all hope
Achievement
The CNMI State Board of Education Policy 2525 states that all
students in the Commonwealth must complete all the necessary
requirements to graduate from high school. Those students who
complete the requirements for completion of Junior High School
will be promoted to the high school and those students who complete the requirements for high school graduation shall receive a
high school diploma.
Over a 7 day period in June – the PSS Management and the
State Board of Education participated in promotion ceremonies and
graduation commencement to recognize the achievement of 8th
Meanwhile, at the high school level – students must obtain a
total of 28 credits to graduate and receive a high school diploma.
These credit requirements are 8 credits in English, 6 credits in
mathematics, 3 credits in social studies, 3 credits in science, 2
credits in physical education and 1 credit in language other than
English, plus 5 other credits which may include career and technical education courses, and other courses sanctioned and offered
at the school.
The awards recognized during the various promotion and graduation ceremonies include the top ten awards including the valedictory and salutatory awards, top subject award, leadership award
presented by the Governor, the Principal award, the Presidential
Academic Fitness award, and other honorable mention awards for
those students who met outstanding achievement but did not meet
the school attendance award.
During the final days as seniors were closing up their activities
– many students have expressed their next steps beyond high
school. Some of these goals include pursuing college education
or enlisting in the armed forces such as the Air Force, the Army,
US Marines, National Guard, the Navy, the Coast Guard and the
reserves. Achievement may be measured by graduation rates,
by test results, by completion of high school diploma – but the
best measure of success is placement after high school. We are
pleased to see an increase in graduation rates, an increase in test
results, and an increase of students being accepted into colleges
and universities and enlistment in the armed forces.
It has been a great year for our students and in the forefront of
these accomplishments – we thank our teachers, our school principals, vice principals and counselors with their support staff for their
commitment to make STUDENTS FIRST an accolade of the Public
School System
7/7/11 9:02 AM
Marianas High School
M
arianas High School graduated its 41st class
of graduates, the Class of 2011, with a total
of number of 262 graduates. Excitement
was in the air as students dressed in their
graduation regalia gathered at the MHS gym to begin the
ceremony. This year’s Awards and graduation ceremony
had a suspense to it, different from previous school years
because the names of awardees was kept a surprise until
the actual award and graduation day.
The Keynote address
was given by Mr. Yasuo
Miyazawa, founder of the
Seisa Group of schools. For
twenty five years, Marianas
High School and Seisa High
School, one of the many
schools within the Seisa
Group of schools, have had
a cultural exchange program where thousands of
students from Japan have
visited Saipan and over a
thousand MHS students
have visited Japan. Mr. Miyazawa, a long-time educator,
president and champion for education and research gave
the students congratulatory and inspirational remarks.
He reminded our graduates that “You can have many
successes and become rich, but always remember that relationships cannot be bought with money. Nurture those
relationships.” He went on encourage them to go after
their dreams and achieve success.
The Salutatorian and Commissioner of Education
Award recipient, Holley Williams Melchor described the
events as follows,
“I really like the suspense that both the awards ceremony and graduation ceremony had. Many thought that the
awards they got were unexpected, and they were happy
about it. People also asked me who the top 10 were, but
even I didn’t know at the time. They asked because, last
year, top 10 were all in the front, but this year, suspense
was added, and everyone was sitting where they wanted
to be seated. During the graduation ceremony, the top
10 were finally revealed and many of the recipients were
very happy and shocked after hearing their names being called. I really like how the stage was decorated during graduation ceremony, it brought about the feeling,
“Yes, I finally made it!”. The cooling system in the gym
was also a great addition. As for the announcement of
awardees, it should have been top 10 first, salutatorian
next, and the valedictorian last, but overall I really liked
the whole concept.”
The Top Ten Awards, scoring the highest GPA and
meeting the criteria for Top Ten were:
#1, Alvijane Manabat, Board of Education Award,
Valedictorian
#2, Holley Williams Melchor, Commissioner of
Education Award, Salutatorian
4print 16
What are your plans after high school?
“Because of the unstable economy, I plan to take two
years here in Northern Marianas College. After that, I
will transfer to a university in the United States to continue my studies. I plan to major in Accounting and Finance. I’ve always wanted to work in a bank. I’ve wanted
to become a teacher, too. So I might even double major
and take up another degree on Education or Physcology.
I dream of becoming a Certified Public Accountant. I
want to absorb everything and live my life contentedly.
With education, the possibilities are endless.”
Interview with Holley Melchor:
#3, Grace Lee
#4, Dowen Jocson
#5, Echaluse, Eileen
#6, Anade, Krystal
#7, Basa, Kathleen
#8, Kim, Mi Ri
#9, Leung, Olivia
# 10, Santos, Michelle
Governor’s Award: Francisco Deleon Guerrero
Principal’s Award:
Jason Pangelinan
Interview with Alvijane
Manabat
Alvijane Manabat June 22 at
3:46pm Report
Before the awards ceremony, I was very nervous. No
one knew who be the valedictorian or salutatorian. But
I was just trying to process in
my head that high school life
was finally over. I was thinking, “So what now?” Each
of us are going to find our own place and purpose on
this earth. The awards ceremony was nerve wracking. At
first, I thought that I would not get not a single award,
but I was wrong. I never knew that I would get the Best
in Science and Social Studies Award because there were
other highly talented people in the 2011 class. During the
graduation, fear was my best friend. Pessimistic thoughts
were constantly coming in and out of my head. But luckily, I had friends beside me, telling me to shake it all out.
I kept asking Margie, “What if they say Boo? What if
they don’t clap for me?” But I remembered that I worked
hard for this and that I deserved it. When they called my
name for the Valedictory Address, I felt overwhelmed. I
was excited and pleased that my fellow graduates cheered
for me and supported me throughout my speech. I was
thrilled to get the speech over and done with. After that,
all my anxiety disappeared, which allowed me to be happy that I am finally graduating.
2.What advice do you have for underclassmen?
“My greatest advice for the underclassmen is to put an
end to the bad habit of procrastination. Usually it starts
during Junior year, and it worsens in Senior year, when it
becomes called, “Senioritis”. Learn to manage your time
well, because time really passes by fast. Finish projects
as soon as possible to avoid having piles of work on the
last week or day of the quarter. Avoid being put down by
your peers that want to bring you down. Another advice
I would give, especially to the upcoming seniors, is to
not think of their “senior year” as a “party year”. In reality, senior year is one of the most busiest years in high
school, which includes applying to scholarships/colleges,
club activities, schoolwork, and completing service learning hours. Overall, I hope that the underclassmen realize
how important high school really is, and how it can make
a big difference in their futures.”
Holley, What are your plans after high school?
Holley Melchor
“My college plan is to go to attend a community college first at Central Texas College in Killeen, Texas. After
attending for two years and getting my associates degree,
I will transfer to a university either in Texas or in Japan.
The universities that I am thinking about transferring to
are: Rice University in Texas, A&M University in Texas,
or Temple University in Japan. I plan to major in the
area of Forensic Science. Ever since I was young, I have
some sort of an observatory skill that allows me to figure things out on my own. Back then during elementary
7/7/11 9:02 AM
Salutes its Graduates
Interview with Victoria Saures, Geometry Teacher,
MHS 2010 Teacher of the Year,
What can you say about this year’s graduation?
“The graduation was fun and exciting. So many of
my former students graduated so it was so emotional for
me. So many of the Top Ten students were my former
students and I had so many attachments to this entire
class. It’s was hard to believe they were already graduating because I knew them as sophomores. When they
first arrived, I remember them coming in as Freshmen
full of excitement and even a little fearful of high school.
And now as I look at the graduating class, they are more
mature, full of achievement and ready to explore new
worlds and adventures. This particular class was so close
to me. As a teacher, I felt like a winner as I looked at
each of them. I celebrated as each name was called. It’s
days like graduation that make all the effort of teaching
worthwhile.”
when I got the “Best in Math” and “Best in Foreign Language” awards. Those were the awards I wanted to get to
confirm my majors, and now that I finally received them
I plan to pursue these majors.”
– Holley Williams Melchor, Salutatorian, Commissioner of Education Award, Mathematics Award, Foreign
Language Award, Presidential Academic Fitness Award
Interview with Francisco Deleon Guerrero, MHS
STUCO President, Governor’s Award Recipient, Graduation Master of Ceremony, Presidential Academic Fitness Award
“I really liked the graduation and awards ceremony. I
thought it turned out really well. I felt so relieved during
the ceremony because I thought, ‘Yes, I’m finally done!
I’m ready for my life to begin.’ I really liked our graduation song because it had so much meaning and reminded
me that my life is starting and that it was time to leave the
past behind and move on into the real world. I know I
will miss high school, but I’m excited to have new beginnings and more success.”
years, when PlayStation 1 was still popular, my dad usually hides it from us during weekdays to avoid playing it.
Although, he does that, I observed where he goes when
he puts it away, and eventually, I always find where he
hides it. I also once played this game where I had to investigate a crime scene and find definite evidence that
would give a guilty verdict to an accused criminal or a
not-guilty verdict to an innocent accused. I am also very
observant when talking face to face with people. I notice
how they really feel and if they are telling lies or not. I
want to develop this skills in the area of Forensic Science, to test myself and also to help solve crimes that
have been unsolved for many years. I’m not so sure yet if
I want to double major in Forensic Science and Foreign
Language (Linguistics). From junior high, I have had the
ambition to learn languages such as Japanese, Korean,
and Thai. And I really hope, when I get to the states
where one of the major languages is Spanish, I would
still be able to concentrate and fully learn Japanese, Korean, and Thai. What made me confirm these majors is
Marianas High School
Awards Ceremony, June 10, 2011
Mayor’s Award: Rochell Lynn Dimapilis
OFEGRA (Outstanding Female Graduate Award): Olivia Espeleta Leung
US Marine Corps
Distinguished Athlete: Edward Aldan Manalili and
Brittany Santos Sablan
Scholastic Excellence: Kimiko Wally and Ernesto Hidalgo III
Musical Excellence: John Ronald Darag and Alvijane Joy Manabat
Gates Millenium: Samantha Birmingham-Babauta
Joeten Enterprises Scholarship Award: Ignacio Dela Cruz
Saipan Chamber of Commerce: Grace Lee and Marie Fraine Javier
Thespian Chapter Scholarship Award: Rochell Lynn Dimapilis
and Dowen Jocson
Department Content Area Awards:
Language Arts: Denicia Avendano and Grace Lee
Language Other Than English: Holley Williams Melchor (Japanese)
and Rima Halaby (Spanish)
Mathematics: Holley Williams Melchor and Marie Fraince Javier
Science: Ji Hye Choi and Alvijane Joy Manabat
Social Studies: Alvijane Joy Manabat and Dowen Jocson
Physical Education: Christina Shaunte Tudela and Joseph Aquino Jucutan
Career & Technical Ed: Peter Michael Tenorio and Ignacio Joaquin Dela Cruz
Fine Arts: Christine Tokiko Rengiil and Bryan Jose Deleon Guerrero
JROTC: Eileen Gail Echaluse and Virbon Frial
Master in Fine Arts:
June Hee Bae
Carlane Castro
Dowen Jocson
Master in Fine Arts – Art:
Rozette Fate Bunao
Bryan Jose Deleon Guerrero
Rochell Lynn Dimapilis
Nikki Ivee Ibarra
Richard Matsuyama
Donna Marie Monton
Christine Tokiko Rengiil
Panidta Torres
Master in Fine Arts – Drama:
Brigette Dulfo
4print 19
Master in Fine Arts – Music:
Vira Starr Cucal
Master in Fine Arts – Video Production
Brittany Sablan
Lovely Diestro
Maryanne Camacho
Richard Mendiola
Jesse Yamagishi
Master in Fine Arts – Yearbook:
Jane Correa
Kimiko Ysaol Wally
Fine Arts and Career Technical Education:
Sheralin Ann Guerrero
Kory Champayne Sablan
Career Technical Education:
Jonavin Ryan Ichihara
Lira Rachelle Lizama
Maria Krizel Reyes
Lucy Lisa Sardea
Jesper Yap
Master in Career Technical Education – Business:
Quayla Taitano
Master in Career Technical Education - Computer:
Donna Crisostomo
Daniel Ezekiel Omar
Master in Career Technical Education – Food and Nutrition:
Tin Yan Kwok
Certificates of Initial Mastery Digital Media Technology:
Kevin John De Torres
Leopoldo Duenas, Jr.
Christian V. Hidalgo
John Denmark Lizardo
Andy Tse
Auto Mechanics:
Gregorio Duatin
Keone Macaranas
Robert Villagomez
Body and Fender:
Mark Deala
Peter Michael Tenorio
1. Severino Alforeza III
2. Michelle C. Camacho
3. Jade Mark Avila
4. Ignacio Joaquin Dela Cruz
5. Bryan Jose Deleon Guerrero
6. Francisco Jose Deleon Guerrero
7. Prunela Keolani Kosam
8. Aasin Jay Liberato
Certificate of Service Learning (75-249 hours):
1. Krystal Anade
2. Jerome Bartolome
3. Samantha Birmingham-Babauta
4. Rozette Fate Bunao
5. Ji Hye Choi
6. Christopher Chung
7. Jane Correa
8. Jeanie Correa
9. Francisco Jose Deleon Guerrero
10. Gregorio Duatin
11. Sheralin Ann Guerrero
12. Rima Halaby
13. Dowen Jocson
14. Prunela Kosam
15. John Lizardo
16. Alvijane Manabat
17. Edward Manalili
18. Hoseki Marciano
19. Deveanna Marie Parker
20. Lerico Primo
21. Sierra Rabauliman
22. Kory Champayne Sablan
23. Kristen Salas
24. Andy Tse
Service Learning Cord:
Rochelle Lynn Dimapilis – 269 hours
Donna Marie Monton - 250 hours
Riza Rina Panganiban - 382 hours
School Spirit Award:
9. Victoria Ann Matsunaga
10. Richard Matsuyama
11. Deveanna Marie Parker
12. Jude Atalig Palacios
13. Donna Marie Monton
14. Kory Champayne Sablan
15. Joy Castaneda Samonte
16. Panidta Torres
17. Kimiko Ysaol Wally
18. Barney Travilla
7/7/11 9:03 AM
Kagman High School
Graduation of the Millennials
The Kagman High School Graduation took place on
June 17th, 2011 right on time at 3:30PM. The 1hour
and 47 minute ceremony was planned and executed by
the dedicated Graduation Committee who worked long
and hard to make this momentous occasion perfectly organized and stellarly decorated. The theme chosen was
Millennials Rising, making reference
to this graduating class’s place in the
hierarchy of generations. This Millennial Generation is the generation
of technology, mass communication and social media wonders.
The Key Note Speaker for this
graduation ceremony was the venerable Congressman “Kilili” Sablan,
who spoke of failures and how they
come from the success of trying.
His message revolved around the
fact that there is no success without
failure. So when we fail; because we
all will fail at some point, we must get back up and try
again. In his speech, he roused the crowd and graduating class with the ever-popular A-Y-U-Y-U chant and
personalized many of the successes individuals in this
class have had in their post-graduation plans and various accomplishments. Kagman High and the Class of
2011thank Congressman “Kilili” Sablan for taking time
out of his very busy and demanding schedule to impart
his words of wisdom on the future leaders of our community.
The Special Awardees were honored in the usual fashion; plaques bestowed with the recipients name. The
Governors Award, presented by the honorable LT. Governor Eloy Inos, went to Ryan So’Ai Rechebei Camacho.
Ryan is planning on attending Boise State University and
has received the Gem Math Scholarship for his excellence in the subject of Math. The Board of Education
Award; presented by the dynamic BOE Chairperson Marylou Ada; went to Angela Reyes Prado, this years Validictorian. She is planning on attending University; either
in Seattle, Washington or Guam. The Commissioner’s
Award; presented by the deft COE herself; went to Michael John Capito Manglona, the class Salutatorian. Michael has enlisted with the Army and will be heading out
for Basic training soon. He plans to avail of the GI Bill
to go to college. The Principals award; presented by the
handsome Alfred Ada; went to Suanne Cenizal Camacho, for her leadership as Senior Class President. Suanne
plans to attend college.
class’s record of 75% planning to attend Post-Secondary
Education. A whopping 90% of the 182 graduated students intend to pursue a college education. Many of the
students have opted to attend Northern Marianas College thanks to the Counseling department’s focus on
continuing education through the various Seminars and
Literacy nights held in conjunction with the
NMC Smart Start program. Additionally, we
have some students who have decided to attend various campuses off-island, such as the
University of Guam, Guam Community College, UTI, PIMA Institute, Georgetown University, Boise State University and Seattle Pacific University.
Many thanks go out to the teachers, counselors, staff, parents and students who gave so
much of their time and efforts to make this day
beautiful and memorable. From day one to the
end, if it were not for you, this year would have
been a bust. Kagman High thanks you.
The top 10 students were 10. Delorina Rabauliman, 9. Rita Sarah Taitano, 8. JR Benedicto Lizama, 7. Sherish Marie Nestor, 6. Chakhrit Kapileo,
5. Hanaivy Babauta, 4. Amanda Maria Santos, 3.
Ryan So’ Ai Camacho, 2. Michael John Capito Manglona, and 1. Angela Reyes Prado. Honorable mention went to Alexis Hofschneider.
Where ever these KHS Millennials go, they will continue to rise and shine like the stars they are bringing
Kagman High School out of the ashes: the Phoenix of
Education.
There were several special scholarship recipients this
school year. Alexis Hofschneider amazed all by bagging
not only a 4 year full Scholarship from the “1789 Alumni
Scholars” of Georgetown University, but also one of the
coveted Chamber of Commerce scholarships and one of
the two Joten Scholarships. The other Joten Scholarship
was bestowed upon Benedicto Lizama. Interestingly, Joten Enterprises usually only gives out one scholarship per
school year. This philanthropic organization noted that
Kagman High School students submitted the most applications this season. They saw our student community
had a need, so they decided to honor two deserving students with this scholarship. Thank you Joten Enterprises
for your generosity and support for higher education.
These Millennials have broken the previous graduating
4print 20
7/7/11 9:03 AM
Saipan Southern
High School
You must be the change you wish to see in the world
T
he faculty and staff of Saipan Southern High
School Home of the Manta Rays extend our
congratulations to our graduating Class of
2011. This year’s graduating class is the 9th
Commencement Ceremony and the largest class ever
graduated at SSHS since 2003. A total of 151 graduates were conferred. The ceremony was beautifully set
up and the Class of 2011 from Saipan Southern High
School was highly spirited and motivated for their next
journey. The outdoor ambiance provided a beautiful backdrop as the graduates sang their song entitled
“Wherever I Go”. The graduation theme was “You
Must Be the Change You Wish to See in the World” by
Ghadi. Robert Torres addressed the graduates as their
keynote speaker emphasizing the importance of making
a difference in the world and embracing the multicultural diversity that exist in the world today.
Top Manta Awardees
The Top Ten Awardees are as followed:
Top #1: James Hegarty Santiago Passi Camacho
Top #2: Jan Kimberly Tecson Alcantara
Top #3: So Jung Song
Top #4: Dahee Kim
Top #5: Ann Mariel M. Flores
Top #6: Lira Park
Top #7: Donovan Jake Manibusan Tudela
Mr. Jonathan Cabrera, class advisor, delivered the closing remarks. Mr. Cabrera emphasized that it was hard
to let go, however, he is confident that the graduates
have the skills to do well in whatever endeavor they
pursue.
Top #8: Joseph Jang
Top #9: Kaelani Babauta Demapan
Top #10: Fumi Nimura
Governor’s Award: Mark Nhoevert P. San Juan
Principal’s Award: Coquina Leah Torres Teregeyo
Mayor’s Awards: Donovan Jake Manibusan Tudela
OFEGRA Award: Kaelani Babauta Demapan
Board of Education Award: James Hegarty Santiago
Passi Camacho
Commissioner’s Award: Jan Kimberly Tecson
Alcantara
Joeten Scholarship: Kaelani Babauta Demapan
Manta Award: Joshua DLC. Diaz
PTSA Award: Jan Kimberly Tecson Alcantara
MANTA Athlete of the Year: Tristan Ecalnea and
Coquina Teregeyo
Marine Corps Excellence Award
Leadership Award: Joshua DLC. Diaz and
Elvielynn Cepeda
Physical Education Award: Yong Park and
Miso Sablan
Siemper Fidelis Award: Donovan Tudela and
Jaynine Parico
4print 23
7/7/11 9:04 AM
Rota High School
We’re the 1’s to Remember
For the first time during graduation, we had our BOE
Chairperson Ms. Marylou Ada, Lt. Governor Eloy Inos,
and BOE Member Herman Guerrero attend graduation
ceremony via Video TeleConference (VTC). This was a
very joyous occasion as we put our resource to use by
televising our graduation. We had the honor of our Lt.
Governor Inos briefly address our graduates.
Our graduation ceremony got a bit emotional when
our keynote speaker, Ms. Camas Baugh (senior advisor)
got up and delivered her speech. She took the time to
address the qualities and how she will remember each
and every single graduate. The graduates were surprised
that their advisor remembered what they did two years
ago and how that impacted her life. As Ms. Baugh
teared up, the seniors would chant 2K—1—1.
R
ota High School graduated 31 of its seniors
on June 10, 2011 at the Round House. The
ceremony was very successful as students,
parents and advisors took ownership in decorating the Round House. The graduation ceremony
was attended by Dr. Rita A. Sablan—Commissioner of
Education and the PSS Leadership Team, Congressman Gregorio Sablan (Kilili), Ms. Tanya King—BOE
Vice Chair, Mrs. Lucia Blanco Maratita—BOE Member,
Honorable Melchor Mendiola—Mayor of Rota, Senator Paul Manglona, Senator Jovita Taimanao, Congresswoman Teresita Santos, Councilman Arvin Ogo,
Councilman George Hocog, Councilman Prudencio
Manglona, Mrs. Maria Quitugua—RHI Principal, Mrs.
Vanessa Hocog—SES Principal.
Ms. Camas Baugh came to Rota High School two
years ago and had the pleasure of teaching American
Literature to the Class of 2011. Ms. Baugh, SGM.
Herman Atalig, and Mr. Ben Atalig along with 1SFC
Francisco Deleon Guerrero were the advisors for these
seniors. They took the time to guide these students to
prepare for the future. The seniors would meet during
Homeroom period to plan ahead. They would search
for colleges, submit college applications, apply for
scholarships, looked at different career fields.
Top Ten
Katelyn M. Alpino
Pauline M. Manglona
Crystal C. Calvo
Jennylyn B. Dela Cruz
Anton R. Salazar
Aurionne R. Hizon
Shane C. Ogo
Mark E. Guiawan
Princes F. Ayuyu
Loraina F. Aguon
4print 24
This year’s graduation theme was “We are the 1’s to
Remember”. The Class of 2011 were the first seniors
to take a Senior Educational trip to Guam to explore
all the different educational fields. They visited University of Guam, Guam Community College, and Guam
Trades Academy. These seniors were also the first
seniors to receive a laptop from the CNMI PSS. These
seniors are also the first senior class to have the highest number of students continuing their education to
postsecondary school. 29 out of 31 will be enrolling in
postsecondary education. One will enter the workforce
and the other will join the military.
The senior advisors really worked hard in guiding our
students towards making their dreams a reality. We have
some seniors who have been accepted into colleges
and have also received their scholarships. Our advisors
have really outdone themselves this school year. RHS
thanks Ms. Camas Baugh, SGM. Herman Atalig, 1SFC
Francisco Deleon Guerrero, and Mr. Ben H. Atalig for
pushing our students forward into the right direction.
RHS would also like to wish Ms. Baugh the best of luck
in her journey as she returns home to be with her family. RHS will always be your BUCK familia.
7/7/11 9:04 AM
Chacha Oceanview Jr. High
Unity In Striving For Excellence
School year 2010 – 2011 was filled with many student
achievements. And, this would not have been possible
without the support and encouragement of our teachers,
staff, counselors, administrators and parents.
Our NJHS induction ceremony was one of our achievements. We were able to induct 30 students to this prestigious organization. To be inducted, students need to
maintain a high gpa, always follow school policies, teacher recommendations, and perform community services.
are other examples of student
achievements.
Promotional Ceremony
This year’s promotional ceremony was a success. The
committee, led by Mr. Micheal
Mercardo and Ms. Carmen Sablan, work hard for this event.
Staff and teachers came in the
weekend prior to the ceremony
to do decorations and set ups.
Our ceremony started at 9:30
a.m. and ended at around
10:35.
Everything went
smoothly. Parents were cooperative at the ceremony. They
gave others a chance to take
pictures of the students.
In addition, our cclhs students were able to compete and
win at the state level. Kimberly Camacho, 7th grader,
won 1st place at the state completion which qualified her
to compete at the national level in Dallas, Texas.
The boys basketball and girls volleyball team, though they
did not won the championship, were another achievements because of their progress. They came played as a
team and did their best.
The ceremony was held on our basketball court. This
allowed for better view of the students from the parents
and guest as they are looking down to the court. There
were more than enough tents and ample tables and chairs
for all the attendees.
We made sure we followed the BOE protocol for the jr.
high ceremony. We did not include a top ten list. The
only awards that were given were the boe, coe, department, and principal’s leadership award. This helped in
keeping our ceremony to an hour.
Our keynote speaker was an army recruiter from Guam.
He inspired the kids to not give up. He challenged each
and everyone to make positive changes in the community
and in their lives.
CNMI Delegate Gregorio “Kilili” also graced our ceremony. Though he did not address the crowd, his presence meant a lot. He made time to converse with the
parents, shook students hands and thank the staff for a
job well done.
Our COE with her leadership team and a couple of
BOE members to include chair Ada were also present.
Her and the Coe addressed the students and the crowd.
They acknowledge the accomplishments by the outgoing
8th graders and thank the parents for their support.
We promoted 144 students to the high school. It was a
great year.
Our science fair participants did receive some awards for
the state level. The event was held at the MHS gym. Our
students really did put a lot work and thinking into this
competition.
Other achievements include students volunteering at chc
delivering get well cards and serenading patience. They
enjoyed what they did and managed to make some new
friends.
Academic challenge bowl, leadership corps program
expansion, and student projects in the woodshop class
4print 27
7/7/11 9:04 AM
Tinian High School
‘Today your life begins’
By Meaghan Craig
Two years ago, I was asked if you will, to advise the junior class—I said yes not having a clue what I was doing
or what I was getting myself into – as most of the students would agree. But somehow through all of the class
meetings, fundraisers, activities, pep rallies, last minute
preparations and lost of patience on both ends we managed to survive all of the chaos and were able to figure
out things together and make this “partnership” work.
Over these past two years I have had the privilege of
getting to know these graduates in front of you. What a
very talented and passionate group they are.
Now, graduates, for some of you, these past thirteen
years of schooling may have felt like an eternity but you
have made it! Your graduation day has finally arrived!
And just like the song…, “Today My Life Begins”—you
are right. Today YOUR life beings! You are turning the
page to a new chapter in your lives by sitting up here on
this stage this evening. It is true that a whole new world
is waiting and it IS yours for taking.
For the majority of you, Tinian has been your world
for most of your life but I am here to remind you that
there is a whole new world/life away from Tinian full of
opportunities that each of you should experience. Go
outside of your comfort zone—that is the only time you
will honestly be able to grow and find out who you really
are. Take a chance, enroll in different classes, apply for
an interesting job, travel to a new place but most importantly, follow your dreams no matter how big they might
be. You have proven to me that when you set your mind
to something, there is no stopping you.
…I see that drive and dedication in your eyes when
you set your mind to a task. Whenever you were in that
“zone” you completed each task beyond my expectations.
So remember as you are walking off t his stage tonight
that TODAY your life begins. You cannot change your
past but you can always change your future. You can
make today better than yesterday. And, it does not matter where you are coming from. It matter where you are
going. Dream big.
No matter the situation, I never let my education fall.
Because of my character, many knew me as the “perfectionist”, the “bookworm”, the “scholar”, and so much
more. However, many did not know the struggle I went
through and how at one point I felt like I wanted to be
an average student.
Alana Takasi
Class 2011 Valedictorian
My parents always encouraged me to do my best and
that was all they need. I grew to learn the importance of
education. I believe that if you have nothing but education; you are one of the richest men on planet earth.
With education you can go far. Because of that, I
learned to discipline myself by giving education a chance.
Soon enough, I grew to love school. When I became a
stallion, I did my best to show them all that I was a hardworking students.
4print 28
…What many people got wrong was that, I may be
smart but I do not know everything. I do my best and
that is all I could give.
..I studied hard myself and focused on the bigger picture. I became a strong independent woman ready for
life.
I can honestly say that I, Alana Takasi, am ready to go
into the real world. I may be terrified but I know that if I
apply all the things that I learned I would be fine.
As we bid farewell to everyone, let us all be thankful to
the people who have inspire us and blaze a trail that will
be bigger than the one before.
7/7/11 9:05 AM
Hopwood Jr. High School
THE POWER OF A POSITIVE WORDS
By Bobby James Cruz
Just more than decade ago, I graduated from Hopwood Jr. High School. I remember how I was, and I can’t
express how surprised I am at how you all are far more
brilliant and better looking than I could ever hope to be.
The theme of your graduation is innovation and new
paths. So before we can look forward and make a new
way, it’s important to look back and consider what needs
to change. I’d like you to think back to your elementary years, where many of you were surely teased or put
down. You probably recall your teacher comforting you
by saying, “Stop crying sweet heart! Sticks and stones
can break your bones, but words can never hurt you!”
Or you might have heard the local version, “The machete and the flecha can hurt you, but the pachut is nothing!” How many of you know that that phrase is a lie?
The words that leave people’s mouths are very powerful.
Words can hurt you and, often, in worse ways than any
machete or rock ever could.
Words mold and shape how we see the world, but more
importantly, how we see ourselves. Unfortunately, the
words that we pay the most attention to and dwell on the
most are the negatives ones. Everyone has fallen victim
to the power of negative words. For instance, we’ve had
someone tell us, “You’re so stupid!” or “You’re ugly!” or
“You’re not good enough!” or “You never do anything
right!” or “What’s wrong with you?” or “I hate you!” or
“You suck!” The list of negative phrases goes on and on,
and I’m sure every single one of us can come up with a
dozen other hurtful words that are much more offensive.
out lie, and counteract those negative words by professing, “Yes, I can do it! When someone says, “You’re not
good enough!” you reply, “I’m more than good enough!”
When someone says, “You’re ugly!” you shout with pride
and self-confidence, “I’m gorgeous!” The more you let
positive words leave your mouth and the more you speak
good and encouraging things over yourself and do it
over and over again, you’ll start to believe it. If you find
it within yourself to proclaim that you can succeed, then
you will find yourself in a successful place.
When an opportunity comes your way to go down an
uncharted path, build a new road that no else has thought
to build, or to be unique and innovative, you won’t be
afraid to meet that challenge and overcome it. Your attitude will be lifted as you proclaim, “I can beat this! I am
more than capable! I am amazing!”
tive words are, they can be equally as powerful, if not
more so, if used positively. It’s all about having an attitude of perseverance and a fighting spirit. When someone says, “You can’t do!” you recognize that as a flat
If you want to be innovative and shape the world of
tomorrow, believe that you have the capacity to overcome negativity and persevere against all odds. So in
closing, I’d like to ask everyone to stand. Today we are
going to practice prophesying good, encouraging, and
positive things over ourselves. Show off your Hopwood
spirit and let your voice shake the ground beneath you
as you repeat after me: I am strong! I am worthy! I am
beautiful! I am a champion!
Thank you and God Bless!
What we don’t realize is that when a teacher, friend,
family member, sibling, or even a stranger judges you
negatively and allows harmful words to leave their
mouths, it damages your self-esteem. If you hear the
phrase, “You’re so dumb!” over and over again, you start
to believe that you must be so. If you hear the words,
“You suck!” over and over again, you start to believe that
you aren’t good enough. Eventually, when an opportunity comes your way, you shy away from the challenge
and let your chance to be successful slip away, because
those negative words are in the back of your mind, reminding you of what someone thinks you can’t do. The
fact is, when you hear something over and over again, it’s
difficult not to believe it.
The good news, however, is that as powerful as nega-
4print 31
7/7/11 9:05 AM
Dr. Rita H. Inos
Jr. High School
‘Our Schools Are Safe Haven,
Filled With Love for our Kids’
By Maria Sablan Quitugua
(Principal Quitugua’s remarks underscore the importance of safe and orderly school—one of the five strategies of the CNMI Public School System. The Dr. Rita
Hocog Inos Jr. High School promotees are the pioneer
students under a renamed junior high school. It was
formerly named Rota Junior High School- Editor)
In doing this, we give our children blessings and
motivation to continue on a successful path—
path to high school then to college or career.
Our schools—or any of our public schools for
that matter – is a safe have filled with love, happiness, friendship and knowledge but most especially the education we provides determines
our future.
Today we celebrate the fun and exciting academic achievement journey our 8th Grade students have experienced here at Dr. Rita Hocog
Inos Junior High School.
Parents, I praise you for all that you do! Your
child’s success is your success.
This celebration is a milestone in ever child’s
life, as time flies and life passes by quickly, it is
imperative that we pause for a while and celebrate ourselves, our achievements and successes.
Top Honors
Board of Education Awardee
Beda G. Mundo
Commissioner of Education
Awardee
Franory Lynn P. Mesngon
PrincipalÕ s Award
Neri Bles Jingco
Kelina E. Hocog
BriAnnie M. Taimanao
Elvie Anria M. Mesngon
Raenn Camacho
Shania M. Mesngon
Micca Ana B. King
4print 32
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Gregorio T. Camacho
Elementary School
Here We Come Junior High!
On June 13, 2011, thirty of our sixth grade students
were promoted to the 7th grade. A celebration ceremony was held in their honor to recognize their accomplishments in four categories: Academic Excellence, VirtuesCharacter Award, Perfect Attendance, and Leadership.
Academic Excellence was awarded to the students that
performed at the advanced level or earned a four based
on the standards based reporting system in all content
areas. The Virtues award was given to the students that
demonstrated a positive behavior and excellent work
habits. Students who came to school every day garnished the Perfect Attendance Award, and students who
exemplified leadership skills abilities through planning,
organizing, and implementing STUCO activities were
awarded the Leadership Award.
The celebration included a tribute to parents where
the students sang and thanked their parents for all
their love, guidance, and support throughout their elementary experience. This sixth grade team was also
inspired by their CCLHS Teacher, Ms. Rose Taimanao
and composed a song entitled “Sais Gradu” depicting
what they’ve learned through their years at GTC. Inspirational remarks were made by Mrs. Mary CamachoCook, a teacher of 32 years from the Nebraska public
school system in which she encouraged students to be
like sponges in soaking up information, staying fit and
taking good care of themselves and reading as a way of
learning about the world. And of course our PTA Vice
President, Mr. Ralph Mafnas touched not only the hearts
of the students but also the parents with his sharing of
how he and the parents watched them from kindergarten
to sixth grade bloom into respectful, competent, and independent individuals.
We are proud of all our students accomplishments and
encourage them to continue “making leaps and bounds”
in their educational journey.
SIXTH GRADE OVERALL QUARTER AWARDS
Academic Excellence Award
Bulaklak, Jezreelyn Yap
Conlon, Shane Alan Leong
Huevos, John Nickole Garcia
Marmito, Robert Miranda, Jr.
Espino, Julia Angelika Mecaella B.
Virtues Award
Alfeche, Hakeem Bernard
Barcial, Kyle Vin Castro
De Leon, Joseph Devera
Quitano, Charita Shirley K.
Seman, Marvin Darien Sablan
Urena, Brian Rios
Yobech, Mycah Kalerang
Alvaro, Ana Patricia Dimaculangan
Bartolome, Jon Jeremiah
Conlon, Shane Alan Leong
Marmito, Robert Miranda Jr.
San Nicolas, Alexa Manalastas
Sulap, Rawwho Semens
Yasuda, Julia O.
Leadership Awards
Marmito, Robert Miranda, Jr., STUCO President
Conlon, Shane Alan Leong, STUCO Vice President
Mafnas, Kenneth Nakagawa, STUCO Secretary
Seman, Marvin Darien Sablan, STUCO Treasurer
Quitano, Charita Shirley Khwanmuang, STUCO Sports and Spirit
Santiago, Patricia Angela Reyes, STUCO Sports and Spirit
Ermitanio, Earl Jason Pajarillaga, STUCO Sports and Spirit
Urena, Brian Rios, STUCO Sports and Spirit
Perfect Attendance Award
Alfeche, Hakeem Bernard
Babauta, Alyssa Carolyn Castro
Belcher, Terrence Evan Thosert
Ermitanio, Earl Jason Pajarillaga
Gabule, Raymond John M.
Marmito, Robert Miranda Jr.
San Nicolas, Alexa Manalastas
Yasuda, Julia O.
4print 35
Alvaro, Ana Patricia Dimaculangan
Bartolome, Jon Jeremiah
Quitano, Charita Shirley K.
Santiago, Patricia Angela Reyes
Yobech, Mycah Kalerang
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
18
June 2011
T
o realize the academic gains necessary for students to succeed, WSRES has worked to build
a culture of achievement: a culture in which
students are encouraged to work hard, a culture in which students are motivated to learn, a culture in
which students collaborate with their peers, and a culture
that inspires each person to move the entire class forward, in order to reach higher levels and gains- A culture
that celebrates success.
WSRES Celebrates Student
Achievement
Evidence of this culture surfaces at all grade levels. In
the Sixth Grade, teachers give frequent quizzes that are
aligned with CNMI Standards and Benchmarks. If a student scores low, he or she can retake that quiz along with
others that are made available on class web pages. Some
students who have already passed the quiz work to help
and coach their peers. The results are powerful. Students
correct each other’s mistakes gently and encourage their
peers to stay positive when frustration arises. The strong
sense of community that results inspires Sixth Graders
to “bond” with their peers and build an environment in
which diverse students feel valued. To celebrate their
achievement, Sixth Graders treated the rest of the School
to a talent show where individuals and groups showcased
original dances, performed or sang music, and delivered
interpretations of readings and poetry.
SY 2010-11. In Second Grade, that increase amounted
to 34%. More modest increases are reflected in Third
through Sixth Grades. In Third Grade, there was an
increase of 22% in students reading on or above grade
level, with a 14% increase showing in Fourth Quarter
alone. At the end of Fourth Quarter, forty percent of
all students in grades Four through Six were reading on
grade level. By the end of Fourth Quarter, STAR testing results revealed that 64% of First and Second Grade
students were reading on or above grade level.
which were recognized for their achievement.
Kindergarten celebrates their growth in 2011 as readers. The percentage of students testing as emergent
readers decreased from 93.5% during first quarter to
56.7% by Fourth Quarter 2011 on the STAR Early Literacy Assessment. Transitional Readers increased from
6.5% at the beginning of First Quarter to 34.4% by the
end of Fourth Quarter. There were no Probable Readers
in Kindergarten at the beginning of First Quarter. By
the end of Fourth Quarter, nearly ten percent of WSR
kindergarten students tested as Probable Readers. These
successes are even more dramatic in the First and Second Grade as students revealed results measured by the
STAR Reading and Math Assessments. In First Grade,
there was an increase of 41% of students reading on or
above grade level over the course of three quarters in
At WSRES, teachers who create a culture of achievement in their classroom value and celebrate achievement,
effort, and collaboration regularly and relentlessly. Over
and over, we witness teachers and aides coaching and encouraging students with special needs to take responsibility for their learning. We celebrate successful teachers
who are thinking critically about what they will value and
celebrate with their students and then set up structures
that force those values to permeate their classrooms. At
WSRES, we celebrate student achievement and success
throughout the year.
This year, the Fifth Grade used their knowledge of
American and CNMI history to visit the Legislature and
question its leaders. Fifth Grade classes praise and respectfully critique their classmates’ end-of-unit presentations as part of their learning experiences. This year,
Fifth grade has shown an increase in SAT10 scores. The
Fourth Grade steps up to challenge all upper graders in
their mastery of math facts, whereas the Third Grade
boasts of students who have successfully completed and
mastered – the challenges of Lexia, a reading program
targeted for accelerating reading skills. Third Graders
likewise enjoyed their success in Math Court, many of
4print 36
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
19
June 2011
Three Kagman
Elementary Students
Read Over
1,000,000 Words
K
agman Elementary School is very proud of its students. The school issued
a challenge to its student body to read one million words in the first six
weeks of school. The students raced to their books and reached the one
million words in eight days. Over the entire school year, the students read
over 31 million words! That’s four times the number of words Kagman students read
last year.
We would like to honor three students
in particular who read over one million
words individually. Wilson Nicholas (4th
grade), Esther Huh (4th grade) and Liam
Teregeyo (5th grade) each read over one
million words and saw an average of 1.8
years of growth in their reading levels
Goal
(1st Fractal)
Objectives
Reporting Period
due to it. When asked how he feels about
reading this much, Liam said, “I never
thought that anyone was keeping track
of all the books I’ve read and the number
of words involved. I feel great knowing
I’ve read over 1 million words.”
have many stories which promote my
imagination!”
When asked about any advice to give to
other kids, Wilson said, “Keep on reading!”
TURNAROUND SCHOOL MONTHLY PROGRESS REPORT
1. KagES to reach 1,000,000 words
by 6 weeks independent reading
using the AR program to track
progress.
2. KagES to have 100% participation
of students 1st to 5th grade with the
reading fractal.
3. KagES to at least have a .3 improvement school wide in Star Reading scores
over the beginning of the year.
1. Students in grades 1st to 5th will
read 4,000,000 words per quarter
2. Students in Kinder and 1st grade
will learn sight words
3. Every student will set their own
goals or reading words by beginning
of 2nd quarter.
April 2011 to June 20, 2011
Achievement/Progress Made: Narrative of events to refer to
participants, deliverables and attachments if any.
1) For the school to reach 1,000,000 words by six weeks independent
reading using the AR program to track progress. - Satisfied Modified
10/2010
A) 4,000,000 words per quarter
1st – Satisfied (6,045,098 as of 11/9) 4,706 books read
2nd – 13,752,689 (As of 1/28) 9,457 books read
3rd -- 22,368,574 (As of 3/29 ) 14,202 books read
4th – 30,595,330 (End of Year 6/17) 20,172 books read
B) Kinder and 1st Grade will learn sight words
Percentage of students with 100% of words
C) Every student will set their own goals by
beginning of second qtr.
Percentage complete school-wide 3rd Qtr. – 83%
Percentage complete school-wide 4th Qtr. – 97%
2) For 100% participation of students 1st to 5th grade.-Satisfied
3) For at least a .3 improvement school wide in Star Reading scores over
the beginning of the year.
School improvement by Quarter
1st Qtr. - [1st – 1.0] [2nd-0.3 ] [3rd – 0.2] [4th -0.3 ] [
5th - -0.1] [School wide – 0.3 ] Goal Met
2nd Qtr.- [1st -0.4 ] [2nd-0.1 ] [3rd – 0.1] [4th –0.2 ]
[5th – no growth] [School wide- 0.2]
4print 39
These students frequent the library to
get their next books to read and they tend
to check out books in series. Both Wilson and Liam like mystery books, especially Hank the Cowdog, Bone and The
39 Clues. Esther says fantasies are her
favorite type of books, “…because they
Kinder
Identify Letter Sounds by end
Of 2nd Qtr.-66%
Pre-Primer words by the end of the
Year- 51%
1st Grade
Pre Primer site w. by end of 1st Qtr. – 78%
Primer site words by end of 2nd sem.– 79%
1st Grade by end of 3rd Qtr. – 78%
2nd Grade by end of 4TH Qtr. – 78%
Goal Not Met
3rd Qtr.- [1st – 0.2] [2nd- 0.3] [3rd
-0.3 ] [4th – 0.2] [5th – 0.4]
[School wide – 0.3] Goal Met
4th Qtr.- [1st – 0.3] [2nd-0.3 ] [3rd –
0.2] [4th – 0.2] [5th – 0.3]
[School wide – 0.3] Goal Met
Kagman Elementary School is celebrating!!
The average STAR score of our 1st graders is
ON LEVEL! At 1.4 point in the school year,
our first graders are scoring a 1.4 on average on the STAR Reading test!!! This is outstanding progress for our school!
Numbers Cost
Served Incurred
Power Walk Throughs in the classrooms
100
N/A
AR Quizzes are used by students independently
514
N/A
Consistent LC meetings with focus on
strategies – CITW strategies
student learning and effective
50
N/A
14
N/A
14
N/A
SLT shares responsibility for monitoring
1st and 2nd fractals
14
N/A
SLT members are collecting and monitoring
data of student learning on a regular basis.
14
N/A
Maintaining momentum with our fractals by
Celebrating the little successes we have at our school.
514
N/A
Use of Research Based Practices –
Clearinghouse guide
The school leadership team are practicing
Shared Leadership by sharing responsibilities
in developing and facilitating SLT meetings.
Measures: STAR Reading Results, Pre-Primer, Primer and Sight Words
assessment results.
Outcomes:
1. All staff is supportive and actively working on the 1st fractal.
We are seeing success.
2. School Leadership Team has built a sense of collective efficacy.
3. School Leadership Team intentionally strives to get staff input on
decisions in order to have a shared goal.
4. We believe this progress is attributed to:
-An outstanding 1st grade teaching staff who work collaboratively
-A more intensive reading curriculum
-Access to a new wide range of guided readers
-A smaller student to teacher ratio
-An increased focus on sight words as part of our fractal
-A literacy block being in place for the first two hours of the school day
-A transitional first grade classroom (with an intensive focus on reading and math)
-More independent reading with quizzes after reading books.
-Improved library access
Our “turn around school” is doing just that! We are proud of our teachers, students, and parents! We plan to keep up the good work!
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
S
20
June 2011
TJSHS Stallions’ Successes!
chool Year 2010-2011 was a year filled with challenges and accomplishments that has strengthen
our school community. Despite the economic
challenges that we all faced and continue to do so,
the spirit of commitment, support, hard work, and volunteerism continued to flourish throughout the school
year. The support and dedication of our stakeholders
(teachers, businesses, government agencies, parents, etc.)
enabled the school to accomplish its mission and continue the focus on student learning. Because of this collective effort and dedication, we saw positive growth in
our Standards-Based Assessment (SBA) End of Course
in the 1st Semester and anticipate the more growth for
this 2nd Semester of SY1011. In addition to this, our
students in the 9th ranked at reached the 50th Percentile
and 11th Grade reached 51st Percentile in the SAT 10
Complete Battery.
A new program for all CNMI Junior High School, the
Leadership Corp, is another success for our Stallion students. The Stallion LC Cadets closed the year with a special presentation to their fellow 8th Graders during their
promotional ceremony and, also, the first in the CNMI
Leadership Corps. to have their Color Guards, who did
present and retire the colors during the end of year ceremony.
Other great accomplishments include our JROTC Academic Challenge Bowl cadets tied at 1st Place overall
with MHS in this year’s challenge, the Inetnon Natibu
Club garnering 4 gold and 2 bronze medals for this year’s
Chamorro Competition in March at the University of
Guam, as well as 2 gold and 1 silver, and in this past
May’s competition in preparation for next school year.
Also, our Stallion Battalion JROTC Leadership & Academic Bowl (JLAB) Leadership Team, although they did
not make it to the top, received a letter of commendation
from the commander of the 8th Brigade (JROTC), Col.
Charles M. Evans, for establishing itself as one of the
top teams out of over 270 JLAB teams. Our Mock Trial
Team came in 3rd Place after Mt. Carmel and Marianas
Baptist Academy. Additionally, aside from the various
medals garnered by our students, the overall Science Fair
winner and CNMI PSS student representative to Los Angeles belonged to one of the Stallion’s graduating seniors,
Ms. Alicia Shrestha, who also graduated as the Class of
2011 Salutatorian.
The year ended with the commencement exercise of fifty
seniors, which marks the historical 20th Commencement
Exercise for the Home of the Stallions. The ceremony
itself made another history by being the first major community event to be held at the new Antonio M. Borja
Amphitheater, named after the late Community Development Agency Board Member, whose youngest son,
Dennis, was sitting amongst the 2011 graduating class.
We saw new inductees into our chapter of the National
Honor Society for both the Senior High and the Junior
High. They, along with our Youth Advisory Panel members, as well as our Associated Student Body Officers,
were tremendously successful throughout the year in coordinating and organizing student events (Pep Rallies, a
student summit, field days, career days, and other volunteer-based activities).
With our students’ academic successes, we also were extremely excited to have had our 2nd Annual Youth Basketball Tournament (Girls, Sr./Jr. High Boys, and 3-on-3
Tinian Elementary Boys Divisions), Girls Volleyball and
Soccer District Tournaments in Saipan, Track and Field
District Meet in Saipan, and the Sr. High All Girls & All
Boys Basketball District Tournament in Saipan. All of
these sporting events would be impossible without our
volunteer coaches from the community and our staff, as
well as, a grant from Criminal Justice Planning Agency
(CJPA).
4print 40
With SY 2010-2011 at a closure, we are proud to say that
our students continue to meet the standards and strive
to meet and surpass them. We are thankful for all those
community partners who have unselfishly given up hours
of their time to become our partners in ensuring our students become the responsible members of the community that we hope them to be. With all your help and the
support of our leaders, both PSS and our Government
Leaders, we will continue our focus on student learning
as well as the programs that complement their academics.
Un Sen Dangkalu na Si Yu’us Ma’ase from the Administration and Staff of Tinian Jr./Sr. High School. School
Year 2011-2012 Here We Come!!
7/7/11 9:07 AM
Students First
A
s part of its Success in Sight initiative, GES
teachers took on the challenge of addressing
technology in the classroom. Innovative Assistance Program grants have made it possible
to equip classrooms with computers, internet access,
technology equipment and enough resources to be able
to give students the necessary tools to begin navigating
the digital world.
The decision to target technology instruction came from
review of classroom observations. Power Walkthrough
data revealed a lack of technology used by both teachers
and students although there were adequate instructional
materials to implement technology based learning. Of
the 373 walkthroughs conducted between August 2010
to March 2011, 80% of observations noted a lack of
teacher directed technology in the classroom.
Of the technology used, most were for display purposes:
Display tool
Interactive whiteboard
Educational Game
Multimedia (watching)
Other (digital cameras,etc.)
5%
6%
2%
2%
3%
When looking at student-centered data, teachers also
found remarkably low engagement in the usage of technology. Only 1% of classrooms were using brainstorm-
I
21
June 2011
Garapan Elementary School Success
ing/mapping
software,
collaborative applications,
diagnostic/prescriptive
systems and educational
games. 2% of students
used technology for multimedia (watching).
In an effort to create a
technology-centered goal
that would involve all
students from Kindergarten to 6th grade, teachers worked in grade level
teams to research effective ways to incorporate
technology into the classroom. After much deliberation,
a student outcome was decided. Teachers would implement a six week fractal focusing on Basic Operating
Skills such as opening folders, renaming files and using a
cursor to choose menu options.
The previous Vocabulary Fractal template was integrated
into the new technology goal, giving students a familiar
format to work with while learning important computer
operating procedures. Every day for six weeks, students
would be given time to work on Vocabulary lessons using
their classroom computers instead of their notebooks.
Data was collected each Friday, based on rubrics created
by the Success in Sight school team. The goal was to
achieve 80% proficiency on all computer-based skill sets
from Kindergarten to the 6th grade. After only the 4th
week, it was apparent that students school-wide had not
only met, but exceeded each grade level and school objectives!
School-wide Technology Fractal Results
Open and close folders correctly
Insert a letter or word using cursor
Use the mouse to choose options in a menu
Rename a file
Use “Save As” appropriately to save
or create new versions
Move between two or more
open folders/programs
85%
87%
93%
82%
84%
94%
As GES prepares it’s students to be information literate,
we also realize the importance of equipping our children
with the requisite skills they need to navigate the digital
world around them. Congratulations to the school teams
and students for collective success!!
Student Achievement at SAES
n today’s education reform era, student achievement is top priority. We want to see
our kids succeeding. We want to see test scores escalate. At SAES, teachers utilized
the results from assessments to monitor different instructional strategies. In areas
of weakness, SAES teachers work together to review and discuss standards and
benchmarks at weekly grade level meetings. Teachers identify general academic weaknesses of each student and analyze the problem to determine if the clarity of the question is the cause, or whether it is an area where different instructional approaches are
needed. In addition, individual teachers review student data and assess what more could
be done to improvement student performance in all content areas. SAES teachers are
working collaboratively and go about with their work with the attitude of “No Blame,
No Shame, and No Excuses,” in assisting students toward mastery of all content areas.
SAES honors
outstanding and most
improved student
readers monthly
Some measures SAES has initiated to ensure student achievement at SAES this
year school year:
• Quarterly STAR Reading and Math assessments with an initial baseline test at
the beginning of the SY (minimum of 5
per year per student (1 thru 6th
• Multiple school level professional development opportunities (ongoing throughout the school year) facilitated by PREL
for all instructional staff (K-6 grades)
targeting differentiated instruction in
the classroom (PREL’s Pacific Child Institute (4 grades) administered by classroom teachers with the Reading Resource
4print 43
SAES scientist awardees during the annual STEM Fair
2010-2011
Teachers to identify at risk students for
after school programs, identify students
for CSTs and gather formative assessment data for differentiated instruction in
the classroom. th – 6th grades)
and (PREL’s Early Literacy Institute (K – 3rd
• Restructured School Leadership Team
that represents all staff to allocate school
budget prioritizing funds to increasing
student achievement/learning in the
classroom.
SAES students to compete in the Thespian Festival in
Nebraska- June 2011
7/7/11 9:07 AM
Students First
22
June 2011
Today’s Students
are Confident,
Optimistic
Alfred Ada
Principal, Kagman High School
(Principal Alfred Ada delivered an inspiring speech during Kagman High School’s Class of 2011 Commencement Exercises. His
remarks reflected what the rest of the Commonwealth public school’s work— create high achieving graduates that are globally-competitive.
The speech was a punctuation of the successes that the PSS family have achieved in School Year 2010-2011- Editor)
Students are paying more attention focusing on grades,
packing their portfolios with co-curricular activities. Parents are more demanding for special attention, special
options and instants results.
Today’s students are confident and optimistic. Rates of
Tobacco, alcohol use, violent crimes and teen pregnancy
are going down as the SAT and ACT scores are rising.
This is a new generation with new set of skills and
priorities.
The Millennial track record makes a dramatic trend
towards engagement with school. Aptitude test scores
have been rising flat across all subjects, 73 percent of the
national high schools across the nations say they want a
four- year college degree. The President declared publicly
and agreed that school reform should be the focus of
national goal.
Zero tolerance approach to hazards in the classroom,
standards focused on high stakes test holding us, educators accountable, curriculum agenda of Common Core
to blue print reform and the most recent, Credit Recovery.
outlook to challenges and assume they can rise to meet
high standards. They are risk takers because they have
fear of falling behind their common expectations, fear
of falling. The new trend in high school undertakes the
ambitious projects in preparing all students of “college
ready’ curriculum and “School-to-work” learning. That
is why your (schools) play a key role as your guiding light
instrument.
From facebook to twitters to google millenials collaborate and develop strong bonds harnessed through group
projects. Inofrmatiion age is the in the sphere of education.
This millenials have been pushed to study hard and to
take full advantage of the opportunities offered to them.
Millenials are on-track to become the smartest, best-educated generation of young adulst in the CNMI and US
history.
Today’s students are not failing and going downhill
compared to earlier generations; they belong to a new
generation that is smart, confident, and hard working.
The Millenial Generation has its own character. It has
its own persona with core traits. They fell they are special
as they as they truly make a difference in the communities and the world through Service Learning and volunteerism. The NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY and
the YOUTH ADVISORY PANEL students condones
countless hours to give time and care for their community. Millenials emphasize on small learning communities; looking out for each other, focusing on people, not
process. Students often are afraid to think and speak up
outside the box because they do not want to be penalized
but this Millenial generation are not afraid to speak out
when they know and feel that they are right.
Today’s students tend to bring an upbeat, optimistic
4print 44
7/7/11 9:07 AM
Students First
23
June 2011
What Does It Take To Be A Student?
By Darsha Camacho
Tinian Junior High School Class of 2011 Valedictorian
What doe it take to be a student? Well, I’d like to start
off by saying that it takes the will to strive for the highest
grade possible and to always try your very best, no matter what position you are in. At times it may be difficult
being a student. It seems as if it were all work, no break,
but in the end you may get what you have always been
looking for, success.
Each and everyone standing here today has done
someone or something that motivated them to do their
best, which is the will to learn.
One of the many things that motivates me is knowing
that I will be able to support each and every member of
my family. It hurts to see how the economy has driven
many people to suffer, especially the people I love and
cherish the most.
I would like to thank my friends for being there for me
when things got rough, whether it be from the stress of
work or just simple problems that distracted me. Thanks
to all the teachers for giving me their time and pushing
me pass my limits. I would like to also thank my family
for giving me the laughs when I need it, encouraging me,
and giving me their support.
I still remember when u use to go from doing my
homework from after school all the way until the sun
goes down, My parents, especially my dad would yell at
me, telling me togo sweep or pick up the clothes, but
their favorite line was “go cook the rice”. It may not have
been a perfect life but helped me to learn how to manage
my time wisely.
These are the things that helped me to strive and move
on and continue with my education. With all my supporters by my side, and all my goals in place, nothing can stop
me from fulfilling my destiny. So I thank you all for being
here. And I hope in the future, everything will be more
challenging, so it can prepare me for the real world.
Thank you, and si yu’us ma’ase.
Class of
2010-2011
Promotion &
Graduation
Exercises
4print 45
7/7/11 9:07 AM
Students First
24
June 2011
KES Successes of SY 2010-2011
Girl’s Softball
KES is notorious for having athletic students. This year,
our girl’s softball team stood out among all the sporting
events we have won. Our girls made it to the championship with only one loss in the regular season. KES competed against OES in the championship, and succeeded
as the champs with the score of 10-0, in favor of KES.
It was a great win for the girls, since many of our players
are first time players. Our coaches are very confident
that we will have another strong team next school year
because many of our girls are 4th and 5th graders. Other
sports we’ve won this school year are:
Track and Field
For two consecutive years, KES has rocked the annual
Track and Field competition and has created a record
breaking achievement. For the first time in Track and
Field history a school bagged three Most Valuable Players awards. These students are Mya Ngemaes for 8 and
under, Roca Kasian for 10 and under girl and Yuyacoby
Santos for 10 and under. All the winners were invited
to McDonalds for the MVP awards. KES has proven
that Umangs are as fast as the energizer bunny! Crowds
were in awe during the awards ceremony because KES
has won the championship in 6 divisions out of 7. The
following divisions won are:
- overall school 8 and under girls 1st place Champion
- overall school 8 and under boys 1st place Champion
- overall school 10 and under boys 1st place Champion
- overall school 12and under boys 4th place
Total Medals won
51 gold
10 silver
19 bronze
80 total of medal plus 5 champions
CCLHS
Tumon Bay Music Festival
One of the biggest achievement KES has achieved this
year is the Glee Club’s successful participation in the
Tumon Bay Music Festival in Tumon Guam last March
2011. The club along with its supportive advisors and
parents were able to raise funds for over twenty students
to travel to Guam and compete in this competition. The
club competed in 3 solo competitions, 2 ensembles and
1 choir competition. All of which they won Gold and
Silver medals. The Glee Club competed in the sweepstakes division with Saipan Southern High School’s Manta Band. The perpetual trophy was awarded to the Manta
Band, and the Glee club placed as a runner up. It was a
huge honor for both groups to be competing with each
other, especially since they were both from Saipan.
The very first CCLHS competition in the CNMI was
held this school year at Hopwood Junior High School.
Koblerville Elementary School was one of many schools
who prepared for the compeition and has left as the
school with the most awards achieved. Many of the
KES students who participated in the competition were
non native speakers, but were able to bag spelling and
choral reading awards. The crowd favorite was the children’s choir competition. KES’s Lower and Upper grade
Carolinian Children’s Choir bagged 2nd place and Upper
grade Chamorro Children’s Choir won 1st place.
Science Fair
Parade of Books
For two years in a row, KES has placed 2nd in the annual
Parade of Books competition. This much awaited event
is sponsored by the Saipan Rotary Club, and has seen significant competitive schools throughout the years. This
school year, we performed our version of the Russian
Cinderella story entitled “Anastasia” by Vladimir Megre.
Our students gave life to the story with a musical touch.
Our actors not only acted their scenes, they also sang it.
We came in second out of nine other private and public
schools. Next year, we will continue our goal of trying
to hit 1st place.
4print 42
For the past four years, KES has had a student win 1st
place the over Islandwide Science Fair. This year a sixth
grader, Hyun Joung Ahn and a 1st grader, Keona Rogopes topped the CNMI Islandwide Science Fair, and
competed in the
Guam Science and
Tech competition.
Both representatives
came back with winning trophies. They
may not have won
the overall champion in Guam, but
they
represented
our school well and
made us very proud
of their achievements. We are sure
to have more students top the CNMI
Islandwide Science
Fair and, again,
compete in Guam.
7/7/11 9:07 AM
Students First
25
June 2011
T
he Tataga are proud of student achievement.
Through STAR levels, standards and benchmarks, effective teaching practices, progress
reports/report cards, and tests that lead to
achievement-academic success is a major goal.
Thanks to the implementation of the Reading Mastery/
Corrective Reading Direct Instruction programs from
grades K-6, the students have demonstrated reading
level gains throughout the past school year. The STAR
Reading results for the end of the year was worth celebrating! The use of the Accelerated Reader program has
also contributed to the students’ reading improvements.
Thanks Renaissance Place!
The reading resource teachers also deserve props for
providing extra reading support as well.
The CNMI Standards and Benchmarks planning and
teaching help teachers gather necessary information and
materials needed to help our students reach their potential. Of course, helping them reach the proficient and
advanced status are the objectives.
Tanapag Elementary
Student Achievement
The STAR programs and Standards and Benchmarks
wouldn’t be of any use without the dedicated planning
and teaching practices of the teachers! Teachers meet,
plan, collect, and use materials to help with strategies and
activities to help students learn better.
Meeting and communicating with parents through conferences help teachers report the academic progress
of the students. Teachers and parents help each other
find ways that parents can help children at home to assist them in improving at school. Educating our kids is a
partnership!
Tests are the final leg of the students’ academic path
to success. Students are tested every quarter-beginning,
middle, and end-and teachers make sure to monitor,
evaluate, and plan accordingly to help with student progress. Goals are set! Hopefully, with the end of the year
tests, the students reached their potential-adjustments
were made, improvements realized, and students were
prepared for them.
Every quarter, student achievement is celebrated with
awards and recognition. The culminating events are the
end-of-the-year and sixth grade recognition awards ceremonies. The Tataga proudly honor the awardees! Congratulations to all for their excellence!
Koblerville Elementary School’s TOP Ten students
K
oblerville Elementary School promoted sixty
one 6th grade students during their promotional ceremony on Thursday, June 16,
2011 at the school stage area. Besides their
certificate of promotion, some students were honored
to receive various awards including citizenship award,
“Umang Advance award”, “Umang Proficiency award”,
Subject Awards, and Top Ten Awards. Recipients of the
top ten awards were:
Top 10: Krissa DL Guerrero
Top 9: Christian Pude
Top 8: Trianna Del Rosario
Top 7: Lizelle Salanga
Top 6: Rossel Jerome Ada
Top 5: Chrystalle Lloren
Top 4: Sophia Kim
Top 3: Torinette Camacho
Top 2: Daisylyn Rejano
Top 1: Hyun Joung Ahn
Besides their academic achievements, these students
were also involved in different extra-curricular activities
and took active roles in different school organizations
including Glee Club, track and field competition, sports
4print 41
competition, Cub Scout, STUCO, National Elementary
Honor Society, Umang Times, and others. These students have shown leadership, responsibilities, hard work,
sportsmanship, and patriotism to our school.
We are truly proud of our UMANG students. We will
miss you and always remember that you are always a part
of the UMANG family.
7/7/11 9:07 AM
Students First
26
June 2011
Dandan Elementary School’s Memorable School Year
T
he Tottots at Dandan Elementary School had
a fun-filled, memorable school year 2010-2011.
We were very busy academically, athletically,
and socially and we took advantage of what
PSS and the community had to offer. We have much to
be proud of this school year!
Our students and teachers were busy joining and excelling in competitions such as Math Court, Spelling Bee,
PGFC, Science Fair, and CCLHS-Academic Challenge to
name a few. These competitions gave our students an
opportunity to shine, and shine they did!
School is not only about academics, and performing
arts gave a chance to students to display their talents
through singing and dancing. We’ve showcased such
talent in events such as the Parade of Books, Paseo de
Marianas Christmas Tree Decoration, DES Talent Show,
and CCLHS Performance Festival to name a few.
Students were challenged and enjoyed a variety of
school sponsored events such as Reading Mania, Recycling Competition, Christmas Program, and Cultural
Day.
Rather than listing down the myriad accomplishments
at DES, we figured what better way to recognize those
who made this school year so special than through pictures. We would like to thank all stakeholders (students,
teachers/staff, parents, community) who supported DES
for a memorable school-year, and hope to continue to
build an environment of trust and success for years to
come. TOTTOTS ROCK!
-----------------------------------------------------------* description for some photos
SSOY-Admin – PSS SSOY-Admin was Ms. Cathy Borja,
our school librarian
Guam Science Fair – Pictured is Franco Masga, who received first place in the Guam Science Fair. Also pictures
is coach and DES teacher Ms. Elaine Cabrera
CCLHS gold – Carolininan group performance that
bagged the gold for their division. Carolinian swept
the gold in all divisions competed, while the Chamorro
faired extremely well, placing in all divisions as well.
The coaches and the students displayed great sportsmanship, communication, and teamwork throughout the
year competing in various intramural sports. Students
displayed their athletic skills and performed well in soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, Track and Field.
4print 38
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
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June 2011
Chacha School Year Through Student Activities/Clubs
April: Library Month Celebration
April Easter egg Hunt
The Easter egg Hunt was part of the students’ celebration of the Easter Holiday. The egg hunt was open mainly to the 6th grade students. They also had dancing and
other games during the Pep Rally event which was coordinated by the STUCO, NJHS and BLC members.
May: Teachers&Staff Academic Challenge Bowl
In honor of Teacher’s Appreciation and the Administrator’s appreciation week, the STUCO, NJHS, and BLC
members hosted a week long Academic Challenge Bowl
for the school. The Students came up with the questions
by reviewing past class lessons and some current event
news.
BOOK LOVER’S CLUB
October 9: First Book Review
The Book Lover’s Club hosted an event for all their
members to go over and discuss all the books they have
read and would like to read. This event was also used to
have all members meet and get to know each other.
June: 8th Grade Teacher Appreciation Luncheon
In honor of the hard work and dedication that the Teachers have given to their students, the BLC and STUCO
members hosted a luncheon for all 8th grade teachers.
They gave testimonials and heartwarming speeches to
show their appreciation.
Oct. 31 Halloween Trick or Treat for community
The BLC members were able to provide the kids in the
Kagman community with candies, reading books, and
some school supplies through the donations they received from their fellow members as well as the teachers
and staff of Cha-cha.
Mayor’s Office. The Students along with the mayor were
able to visit many of the dignitaries of Japan. They also
visited many historical places as well their beautiful sights.
The students were given the opportunity to stay with a
host family and learn more of the Japanese culture.
March: Academic Challenge Bowl
The Book Lover’s Club along with other students of Cha
Cha participated in the School wide Academic Challenge
Bowl which was held at Saipan Southern High School.
They competed against other students from the various
schools and came in 6th place overall.
November to December: Dec. 11 Christmas card
making day, Nov. 15-Dec. 15 Holiday Food Drive for
Salvation Army, Dec. 22 Gift giving at the Hospital.
The BLC members gave back to the community by personally taking charge of the food drive in the Kagman
Community. The Holiday Food Drive is a annual activity
that is usually headed up by the Salvation Army. They
also made cards and had gifts donated to the Patients at
CHC who were not able to go home for the Holidays.
January 7: New Year School Dance
The BLC hosted a school dance fundraiser that would
help pay for their trip to Japan. It was also a great way
to usher in the New Year.
The New Year Bash was an
opportunity for all the students to get together and
celebrate the New Year.
February 5- 14: Sanpoen
student exchange to Japan. Feb. 18 Valentine’s
Day Dance
The Sanpoen Student Exchange was held by the
4print 37
STUCO:
STUCO members were in charge of collecting questions that would be used in the STAFF&TEACHERS
academic challenge bowl. They also provided treats for
staff/ teachers and also made posters to cheer on the
competitors.
NJHS:
March 23: Induction Ceremony
The induction ceremony was held at Lao Lao Bay Golf
and Resort. The ceremony welcomed the new members
of the National Junior Honors Society. A total number
of 30 students were inducted this school year.
March 24: Kick Butts Parade
The Kick Butt’s Parade is hosted by the CGC. The event
was hosted to inform the community on the negative effects of tobacco and to encourage them to quit the habit!
The students participated in the parade which started at
Mt. Carmel Church and ended at Hopwood Jr. High
School were they had more games and Dance Competitions by different Schools.
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
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June 2011
High Achievers of SSHS
Manta Band Awarded Sweepstakes
Trophy in Tumon Bay Music Festival
The Manta Band, under the guidance of band music conductor William Dewitt, were awarded the Sweepstakes
trophy in this year’s Tumon Bay Music Festival. The
Manta Band garnered a total of five gold medals, twelve
silver medals, and one bronze medal. Band members
competed in various categories such as small ensemble
clarinet quartet, solo piano, solo flute, jazz rock band and
the concert band category. The Manta Band have been
invited to perform in the 2012 US Olympics to held in
London.
JROTC Drill Competition
The JROTC Manta Ray Battalion, under the leadership
of Cadet Lt. Col. Mark San Juan and guidance of instructors Command Sergeant Major Leonardo Ragago,
Sergeant Major Joaquin Kiyoshi, and first sergeant Gene
Guzman, were the overall winner in the 9th Annual inter-island JROTC competition held in May 2011. The
Manta Ray Battalion won Best in Color Guard Rifle Drill,
Color Guard Saber Category, and 1st place winner in the
Armed Drill Exhibition.
AG’s Cup Speech
Competition
Christa Ching came in second
place defending her position
that the CNMI should not
separate from the federal government but rather work collaboratively to help improve
the livelihood of the people
in the CNMI. Christa plans to
become a lawyer and throughout her high school career has been involved in various
extracurricular activities that provide an opportunity for
her to experience the different aspects of the law. Christa has been a member of the Mock Trial Team since her
Freshmen year and she competed in the We the People
Competition last year. She is also a member of the Manta Band, Upward Bound, and Book Club. Christa will be
joining the Air Force band and plans to pursue her postsecondary studies at University of California (Berkley).
We The People Competition
Saipan Southern High School won 1st place in this year’s
We The People Competition. The 22 member team
demonstrated their knowledge of the U.S Constitution
and the principles and values it epitomizes. The team
had the opportunity to represent the CNMI in the national competition held in Washington DC. The team
were coach by instructor Gerald Russell, Justice John
Manglona, attorney Steven Gardner.
JROTC Mentorship: April 11-15, 2011
The JROTC held a week long mentorship program in
which they came and helped out in the different classes.
One of the many classes they mentored was the leadership corps class. The students of the LC as well as the
JROTC enjoyed teaching each other all that they had
learned in their classes. The JROTC helped the LC students with some of their drill and ceremonies and also
talked about their experiences in high school.
The NJHS helped to come up with questions that would
be used in the challenge bowl and were also in charge
of dividing the teachers and staff into different teams.
They also had the responsibility of setting up a cheering
section.
Leadership Corps:
Feb 3 PTSA DRILL AND CEREMONY PRESENTATION TO PARENTS
The Leadership Corps. Is a new elective course that is
being offered here at cha cha. Students in the Leadership Corps wanted to show their parents what they had
learned so far in the class by presenting some drills and
ceremonies during the PTSA. The students worked really
hard all week to prepare for the event. Parents as well as
the teachers were really impressed with all that they had
accomplished.
March 24: Kick Butts Parade
As leaders in the school, the students in the leadership
4print 34
corps class wanted to participate in the Kick Butt’s Parade held by the CGC. The Parade was a way to send out
a message to the community about the negative effects
of Tobacco Use. They marched in the parade with other
members of their school.
COJHS Science Fair: January 18-21, 2011
The week long science fair show cased some of the best
work by the brightest students of cha cha. Many students
came up with new and interesting science projects for the
different categories; some of the winners in the event
was Emmalou Cabrera for and Maricar Valdez for Health
Science.
After School Math and Reading Program:
April 25- June 7
The After School Math and Reading Program was started
to help students that are struggling with their math and
reading. The students met every day after school with the
math and language arts teachers and improved on their
math and reading levels.
After School Sports Activities:
April- Softball
May- June: Volleyball& Basketball
After School Peer Tutoring Program: May 23- June 9
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
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29
June 2011
Tinian Elementary School Achievement
his school year’s student achievement and success would not have been possible without
the tremendous assistance and support of our
partners in education. We applaud the parents,
guardians, teachers, students, Student Government Organization, Mayor’s Office, Legislative Delegation, and
businesses that have helped throughout the year in ensuring that our student’s were afforded every opportunity
to participate in the various activities sponsored by the
school and district. We would also like to thank Tinian Junior Senior High School for the collaboration they
have offered our campus to provide extracurricular activities, support our curriculum, and being our partners
in ensuring that all students succeed.
The community partners on our island have coordinated
and organized a variety of events and presentations for
our students.
• Fire Safety by DPS fire division
• EMS/EMT presentation by DPS Fire Division
• Collaboration with CPA and DPS during Tsunami Drill Evacuation
• Healthy Eating by NMC CREES
• Child Passenger Safety Week by DPS
• Kung-Flu presentation by Public Health THC
• Flu Vaccination by Public Health THC
• Coastal Clean-up by CRM
• Coral Reef presentation by CRM
• American Red Cross Walkathon
• Consultations by DYS with our at-risk students
as requested by the school and/or parent
• THC conducted a presentation on Diabetes
awareness and conducted free glucose and blood
pressure checks. They also partnered with TES/
TJSHS during our Live Healthy Walks to administer blood sugar and blood pressure tests.
Collaboration with TJSHS
• Counseling services provided by TJSHS Counselor, Andrea Thompson, when requested
• Collaboration with Science Teacher, Mr. John
Sutfin to assist the 5th grade teachers with an expedition deep into the Limestone Forest.
• PE classes by PE Instructor, Ms. Meghan Craig,
once a week to every grade level.
• Service Learning by JROTC, NHS, and YAP
• Teacher Academy
• Taga Arts Festival
• Anti-bullying presentation by Teen Truth Live
Student Government Organization (SGO)
• SGO election process and inauguration led by
Mayor Ramon Dela Cruz
• Halloween Party
• Education Day
• Thanksgiving festivities
• Spirit Week
• 100th day celebration
• Valentine’s Day card making for our Man Amko
• Easter Day activities
• Mother’s Day Tea Party
• Teacher Appreciation Day activities
• End of the year party
The following are highlights of school level activities
sponsored and coordinated by teachers, volunteers, and
the Student Government Organization. Thank you for
all you do to
4print 33
ferent grade levels. Another event to mark the celebration of Library and Poetry Month was having celebrated
community members come and read to students at Tinian Elementary. Some of the Celebrity Readers that
volunteered their time to come and read to students were
Mr. Julian Hofschneider, Principal of TJSHS and Fireman Ignacio Kiyoshi.
Parent Literacy Nights
Every quarter, each department committee gets together
and hosts a Parent Literacy Night to make available pertinent information about how parents can help their child
at home with homework and other curriculum related
activities. The committees put together folders for each
Parent Literacy in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarter for parents
to take home and use. During each event they met with
parents to discuss what they can do to help their children
at home. Some of the items included graphic organizers for vocabulary, “Why Reading Aloud is Important”
online article, Bloom’s Taxonomy Stem Questions flip
book, and so much more. On the last Parent Literacy
night, the committees put together Summer Bridging
packets for each grade level and provided tips for parents
about what they can do to make their child’s summer fun,
productive, and educational.
Language Arts Committee
The Language Arts Committee has had a successful
and productive school year! They started off the school
year with Parent Literacy nights and ended the year with
Open Mike Night where students were able to showcase
their works of writing.
The L.A. Committee also organized and hosted the
school level Spelling Bee competition. At the end of
January, about thirty students from 3rd to 6th grade competed against each other for the top spot to represent
Tinian Elementary in the Scripps
Spelling Bee Competition held in
Guam annually.
L.A. Committee hosted a school level Parade of Books
to choose the winning class to compete in the official
competition in Saipan. A total of four classes competed for the top spot in front of parents and community
members on March. The 4th grade classes acted out a
scene from “The Cricket of Time Square” by George
Selden. The 5th graders performed a scene from “Call
It Courage” by Armstrong Sperry. The 6th graders performed the Greek Myth, “Arachne”. The 2nd grade class
of Mrs. Rinenta Hofschneider performed “The Chinese
Mirror” by Mirra Ginsburg and had the audience and
judges rolling with laughter. They did such a great job
they won the top spot to represent Tinian Elementary in
the official Parade of Books competition.
Every year the L.A. Committee coordinates an Open
Mike Night that dedicates one night of the year to the
students and their works of writing. On this night, all
works of writing from every subject and all grade levels are brought out for parents, teachers, and students
to see all the wonderful talented writers of Tinian Elementary. The students choose their own books or they
may choose another book written by another student to
read to the parents, community members, students, and
teachers. The event was very successful and once the
students got over their stage fright, they kept on reading
and enjoyed themselves immensely.
Science/Health & Wellness Committee
Through the school’s curriculum and nurturing environment, each student is encouraged to reach their full learning potential and become healthy, dynamic and productive individual with the help and support of our teachers,
staff, administrators at Tinian Elementary School, as well
as their families and the community.
In celebration of Library and Poetry Month, the committee and the
school librarian-aide, Mrs. Marciana Cruz organized a reading contest for K-6th grade. The students
who read the most books received
a book donated by community
member, Frances Diaz. The rest
of the participants received bookmarks, pencils, and erases. They
also decorated a bulletin board in
the cafeteria with poetry from dif-
7/7/11 9:06 AM
Students First
30
June 2011
Saipan. The 1st place winners from this competition will
represent CNMI in the Chamoru Competition in Guam.
Our students did a wonderful job and represented TES
well. The following is the result from the CCLHS Competition: 1st place for K-2nd grade spelling is Samantha
Sandbergen, 3rd place for 3-5th grade spelling is Jeremiah
Hofschneider, 1st place 6th -8th grade Q &A is Leona
Dela Cruz, 2nd place for 3rd-5th grade Q & A is Edward
Quichocho, 3rd place for 5th-6th grade choral reading, 1st
place poetry is Michelle Quichocho, 1st place 6th -8th grade
chant, 3rd place K-2nd grade drawing is Imran Hossain
and 3rd place 3rd-5th grade drawing is Dyna Penaranda.
Our students were excellent.
Students in grades 4th-6th participated in a Chamorro
Christmas Caroling for all government offices.
Social Studies Committee
Sexuality Training for Parents was offered at the beginning of the school. The goal of the training was to
develop an action plan of activities that advocate for
healthy sexuality.
Childhood obesity is still a growing concern for the
CNMI. In a continuing effort to prevent this, TES has
once again performed a BMI(Body Mass Index) pre-assessment and post assessment at the end of the school
year to assess and compare the outcomes of these records. This is to help us monitor the improvement in
our student’s growth and development as well as their
activity level.
were asked to do a cooking demonstration of their recipes in front of the students. Students from different
grade levels were invited to be the judges for both categories. Students, teachers, and staff enjoyed the events
as they watched the students prepare their recipe and
then later savor the samples of each entry.
Every year, Tinian Elementary School has been successful in coordinating and participating in the American Red Cross Walkathon. The school’s American Red
Cross Coordinator and teachers have been active in getting students to pledge and participate in the walk along
with their families. For the past two years, the American
Red Cross and school’s Health Walk Program have been
successfully combined to promote healthy living habits,
awareness, and a way for families to get out and spend
quality time exercising while helping those in need.
Since December 1st, is World AIDS Day, our school spent
a whole week studying and becoming familiar with HIV
and AIDS. We started the week off with a school wide
assembly and a presentation on an informative video
called, “Let’s Talk About HIV and AIDS”. This gave the
children a chance to learn all about prevention, transmission, and how it affects the body. Throughout the week,
all of the classes participated in integrated lessons and
activities related to HIV and AIDS.
YEAH!” (Youth Engaged in Advancing Health) program was launched this school year. We have 5 students
who were selected at the beginning of the school year to
participate in a health education workshop held in Saipan
that would teach students about healthy living. The 5
student leaders became the school’s health advocates.
During our monthly flag ceremonies the health advocates called “YEAH!” (Youth Engaged in Advancing
Health) lead the student body in two fun and easy dance
numbers that gets their heart pumping.
The Health and Wellness Committee spearheaded the
very first School Level Recipe Contest. There were two
categories for the contest: Healthy Snack for 1st-3rd grade
and Salad for 4th-6th grade. The committee received a
total of 18 entries. The top 3 entries from each category
For the first time, the Social Studies Committee organized activities for a United Nations Day celebration. It
was a great success! The day started out with a “Parade of
Flags” promoting world peace. After the parade, a school
assembly was gathered in the cafeteria for presentations
from each class or grade level. Each group had chosen a
United Nations country and they showcased what they
learned about the country. As a finale, the whole school
sang the song “Peaceful World”.
Math Committee
Students in grades K-6th grade participated in the MathCourt competitions in Saipan.
CCLHS Committee
This school year we had school level competitions in
spelling, poetry, oratorical, essay, drawing, choral reading,
and singing to determine the students who
will represent TES in
the Chamoru Competition hosted by University of Guam in Guam.
TES placed 1st place in
the K-2nd Spelling, 1st
place in Poetry, 3rd place
in Choral Reading, and
3rd place in Singing in
the Chamoru Competition.
Grades 4 – 6 students participated in the annual National Geographic Bee. They competed in their respective
classes. The winner of each class competition became
a finalist in the school level Geographic Bee which was
held on January 2011. Craig Crisostomo won the school
level competition and a written test was administered to
him which qualified him to the pacific regional level.
Classes at Tinian Elementary School studied Black History in their respective classrooms. Students learned
about important people in Black History and what they
did to promote peace and equal rights.
CCLHS also hosted
several school level
competitions in drawing, singing, chanting,
spelling, Q & A, poetry,
and oratorical to determine the students who
will represent TES in
the First Annual CCLHS competition held in
4print 30
7/7/11 9:05 AM
Students First
31
June 2011
A
s we reflect on the events of SY2010-11, we
are thankful for the untiring commitment and
dedication our parents, teachers, students, and
community have demonstrated. Through our
collaborative efforts our children will continue to blossom into independent, competent, and well rounded
individuals. As a Binadu Family/Team, we value hard
work, set high expectations, collaborate, and observe respect for all. This simple formula has continued to guide
us in being focused on our goals.
To our exceptional teachers and staff better known
as our “unsung heroes” we salute you for going beyond
your duties. We truly appreciate all the countless time,
effort, and sacrifices you have made for our children. To
the teachers that our parting us, we are forever grateful for your contributions and service to GTC. To our
outstanding parents and dynamic PTA officers, we are
truly grateful for your support and partnership in helping
us teach your children. Through your involvement, we
witnessed our children grow into confident self learners.
Your leadership, voice and support, enabled us to accomplish our goals. And to our talented students, thank you
for motivating us to do more. We believe in you and
want nothing but the best for you. Be safe, make good
choices, and continue challenging yourself.
Let us celebrate our accomplishments and continue
growing and strengthening our partnership. Thank you
Binadu Family/Team for contributing to our success.
GO BINADU, GO PSS!
THE BINADU FAMILY’S TOP 10
ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR SY2010-11
• ACCREDITATION FULL SELF STUDY
• PTA & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• CCLHS PROGRAM
3sent student(s) for National competition 3
consecutive years
3actively involved in CCLHS forensic
competitions
T
Binadu Family Teamwork
• ACADEMIC BEE CHALLENGE
3Place 2nd overall
• INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS
3soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball,
and track n’ field
• SAT10 RESULTS
33rd grade at the 50th percentile; 5th at 68
and 6th at 72nd percentile
• STATE TEACHER & SUPPORT STAFF OF
THE YEAR
3Ms. Raena Bermudes and
Ms. Corazon San Nicolas
• FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS
3Family Learning Fair
3Motheread/Fatheread Program
3Family Literacy Nights
• HEALTH & CULTURAL FESTIVAL
• COLLATERAL EQUIPMENT FOR K-6 CLASSROOMS
RHI School and Student Achievements
By: Nathan Thibodeau, CTE Teacher
CNMI and she said, “I was extremely surprised because
I didn’t expect to win at all. I did the essay to learn more
about John Adams and to earn extra credits…..”
his school year was a year of
firsts for Dr. Rita Hocog Inos
Junior High School (RHI). Along
with a new name, which honors a
former Commissioner of Education, there
were many first time student accomplishments. The students have kept busy with
many extracurricular activities throughout
the year such as Mock Trial, Law Day, PSS
Rocks, Teen Truth: Live and many others.
In March, RHI received a visit from two
presenters in the program Teen Truth: Live
after they visited schools on Saipan. The
presentations talked to the students about
anti-bullying and body image and stressed
that the most important thing was to make
a difference in the schools. As a result, RHI
presented a number of students with the
first ever “Difference Maker Award.” One recipient,
Early April brought RHI an accreditation visit from
the WASC committee. Although this visit was to renew
the current accreditation, it was the first visit under the
school’s new name. In order to prepare for the visit, many
improvements were performed on the school buildings.
New windows and doors were installed on most of the
buildings to provide energy efficiency and improve the
appearance of the campus. The names on all of the
buildings were also repainted to provide a new look for
the committee’s visit. Other improvements such as painting and new air conditioning units in the classrooms are
ongoing.
Thomas Manglona II, who was voted as making the most
difference, was also awarded the “Teen Truth: Live Difference Maker Award” which enters him in a national
contest with a chance to win a
$500 scholarship.
The staff of RHI are proud of the accomplishments
that were achieved this year. There were so many that we
would love to mention them all, both from students and
to the campus. We know there will be many more and
look forward to seeing these improvements in the years
to come.
RHI was also the home of
the First Annual Law Day Essay
Contest winner. Beda Mundo, an
eighth grade student at RHI, was
the first place winner of the essay contest which had the theme
“The Legacy of John Adams,
from Boston to Guantanamo.”
Beda competed against students
from many other schools in the
4print 29
7/7/11 9:05 AM
Students First
32
June 2011
• School Opening
School Orientation
• Adaptation of McRel Instruction Program
• Classroom Instruction that Works
• Power Walkthrough
• Success in Sight
• Accreditation Midterm Report March 2011
(Reaffirmation of six year accreditation June
of 2014)
• HQT Teachers (status)
• TOY Rep / nominees
• Parent Involvement
• Parent Summit
• SCBM / PTA Meeting
• Career Day
• School Events
• United Nation’s Day
• Christmas Program
• Canary Walkathon
• Field Day
• Young Authors Book Fair
• School Recipe Contest CNMI-wide
• PSS Walkathon
• Talent Show
SVES Major Accomplishments SY 2010 – 2011
• Sports
• Girls / Boys soccer, basketball, baseball
games
• Wellness Club
• Aquaculture
• Young Farmer’s Club
• Mr. Welch’s Hands-on Science Class
• Technology in Classroom
• Additional Computers in classroom
• NEO laptops
• Brain Pop
• Ed Helper
• Safari Montoch
•
4print 26
Students’ Achievement
• Math Court
• PGFC
• Chamorro Academic Challenge / Language
Competition
• SBA / SAT Achievement
• Accelerated Reading – 99.78% of 45,000
(44,901 books read SY 2010 – 2011)
• Science Fair
• Success Club - After-school Program
• Saturday Reading
• Spelling Bee
• Awards Ceremony
• Standards-based Report Card
• Christmas Tree Decoration Contest
• Science Summer Camp
• Library Contest
• Reading Resource Pull-out
• Electronic Portfolio
• STUCO
• Talent show (SVES Idol)
• Retreat
• Staff Professional Development
• Learning Community
• McRel
• Troops to Teachers
• Environmental Science Fair (DEQ)
• Financial Literacy – (BOH)
• Zumba Dance Teacher’s Fitness Program (Health
and Wellness)
• Cafeteria - animated food services system
• ARRA Project
• SPED Program / Instruction
• IEP tracking Sheet
• Inclusionary Model
• Exterior Painting on all buildings
• Grading on the drainage system
• Replacement of doors
• Drop ceiling on one classroom
• Tin roof replacement - building E, K,
Library
7/7/11 9:04 AM
swept through the campus, our resilient staff and malleable students have withstood t
rode the challenges out like surfing pros. The successes we have had along the way ha
positive change that high expectations have brought. Next year, it will only get better.
Academic successes Students First
K
33
June 2011
This year Kagman High had a big challenge. Being a Turnaound school, we had to reall
and find a solution for our previous years of not meeting Adequate Yearly Progress goa
a problem for 3 plus years. We had been making positive gains, however they were no
the districts goals. With the help and guidance of the extensive McRel PDs and trainin
plan. Our plan was to focus on explicitly teaching our content’s academic vocabulary.
foundation of any concept. Our reasoning was that if students know the academic voc
content, they will be able to comprehend the concepts with more depth and rigor. Kagman High School Year in Review
agman High School has had an amazing year
for SY2010-2011. Although a tsunami of
changes have swept through the campus,
our resilient staff and malleable students
have withstood the waves, and rode the challenges out
like surfing pros. The successes we have had along the
way have cemented the positive change that high expectations have brought. Next year, it will only get better.
Academic successes
This year Kagman High had a big challenge. Being
a Turnaound school, we had to really pull together and
find a solution for our previous years of not meeting Adequate Yearly Progress goals. This had been a problem
for 3 plus years. We had been making positive gains,
however they were not enough to meet the districts goals.
With the help and guidance of the extensive McRel PDs
and training, Kagman had a plan. Our plan was to focus
on explicitly teaching our content’s academic vocabulary.
Vocabulary is the foundation of any concept. Our reasoning was that if students know the academic vocabulary of our content, they will be able to comprehend the
concepts with more depth and rigor.
We began by collaborating as departments and collecting data of results. Each depart
using a specific vocabulary strategy to teach the vocabulary, and to give a pre, mid and
measure student learning during the timeline. We had meetings to share what worked
to analyze our data. The results were positive. Teachers saw a difference. What’s mo
difference too. You could hear a buzz around campus about vocabulary strategies, and vocabulary qui
vocabulary games. Vocabulary was everywhere! And when the assessments came aro
SAT10, kids were excited. “Miss! I knew lots of the words this time!” There was confi
voices! What is more, the proof was in the proverbial pudding. KHS 80 70 60 ALL SCHOOLS 50 40 30 GOAL 20 10 0 We began by collaborating as departments and collect
collecting data of results. Each department agreed upon using a specific vocabulary strategy to teach the vocabulary,
and to give a pre, mid and post test to measure student
learning during the timeline. We had meetings to share
what worked, what didn’t and to analyze our data. The
results were positive. Teachers saw a difference. What’s
more, students saw a difference too.
67.5 60 43.12 30.47 22.52 17.81 2009‐2010 2010‐2011 KHS 22.52 43.12 ALL SCHOOLS 17.81 30.47 60 67.5 GOAL Our score
Course as
highest ga
years, con
content a
especially
where we
higher tha
average. success to
and collab
Math Dep
fidelity to
ALGEBRA 2 End of Course DISTRICT COMPARSION You could hear a buzz around campus about vocabulary strategies, and vocabulary quizzes, and vocabulary
games. Vocabulary was everywhere! And when the assessments came around, the EOC & SAT10, kids were
excited. “Miss! I knew lots of the words this time!”
There was confidence in their voices! What is more, the
proof was in the proverbial pudding.
:>4 8ost #raduaGon 8lans nd done with, d to have 100% 80% g post‐
60% lk of which 40% 20% everal plan 0% with one SY07‐08 SY08‐09 sy09‐10 SY10‐11 , accepted to Post secondary ed/
30% 86% 77% 90% trade school a full join work force est college 23% 15% 12% 3% aduated. It military 27% 19% 15% 7% Part of this undecided 20% 20% 8% 0% e r Counseling department did with these and all students on campus this 4print 25
partment held several events to promote college and careers. Our most Our scores for the Fall End
of Course assessment saw their
highest gains in the last 3 years,
consistently across all content
areas; most especially in Algebra
II, where we scored even higher
than the District average. We attribute this success to the leadership and collaboration of our
Math Department and their fidelity to the cause.
Now with graduation over
and done with, our 2011 senior
class is proud to have 90% of
its members pursuing post-sec-
ondary education; the bulk of which are slated to attend
NMC. Several plan to attend college off island; with one
student, Alexis Hofschneider, accepted to Georgetown
University with a full scholarship. This is the highest college bound class KHS has ever graduated. It certainly
won’t be the last. Part of this success is due to the intensive preparation and outreach our Counseling department did with these and all students on campus this year.
7/7/11 9:04 AM
Students First
34
June 2011
Sports:
Girls
Varsity Basketball 2nd place
Coach
Francis SanNicolas
Varsity Volleyball 3rd place
Emily Quitagua
Varsity Soccer 2nd place
Meghan Herber
Varsity Fast Pitch Softball 2nd place Thomas Silberberger
Jay Sanchez
Boys
Varsity Basketball Champions
Varsity Volleyball Champions
Varsity Soccer 2nd place
Varsity Baseball Champions
Varsity Outrigger 3rd
Boys and Girls
Varsity Track and Field 2nd overall
Akiko Dela Cruz
Alexis Hofschneider 1st
Nicklas Iglecias 2nd
Herolyne Selepeo 3rd
Library Month Essay Contest
Alyssa Arangorin
Congressional Art Competition
Jemma Lara 2nd
Bridge Capital 2nd Annual Art Competition
Nicklas Iglecias 1st
PSS Education Day Logo Competition
Dodet Feliciano 2nd
PSS Education Day Essay
Mark King 1st
Attorney Generals’ Cup Speech Competition
Angela Prado 3rd place – Orator
Speech writing team
Eva Jean Taitano
Allyssa Arangorin
Peter Paul Camacho
Mark King
Shaun Kyle Buttters
Regional Thespian Competition For Duet Acting Akiko Delacruz 1st
Nicole Ichihara Sablan 1st
JROTC Fancy Drill Competition
Unarmed Drill 1st
Fancy Drill 1st place
Placed 3rd overall
Island Wide Poetry Slam
Maru Aldan 1st
Main entrée 1st
Isabel Muna
Paricia Nauta
PSS Cooking With Colors Competition
Tanya Castro
Vegetable entrée 1st
Alan Sablan
Lawrence Camacho
Chris San Nicholas
Summer Program Attendees
Junior Statesmen of America
Ana Ada - Stanford University
Chris Santos - Georgetown University
Alyssa Arangorin - China
Summer Health Careers Program Antonio Bornilla
Klevelyn Butters
Bryanna Camacho
Elloisa Lotoc
Anjannete Narvaez
STEP UP
Chasey Amado
Alexis Hofschneider
CLOSE UP
Rayna Chong
Patsy Jetlee
Francisco Quitagua
Savali Talalemotu
Post Secondary Institutions and Trade School Accepted to
Georgetown University
Pima Institute
Seattle Pacific University
UTI (Universal Technical Institute)
University of Guam
NMTI (Northern Marianas Technical Institute)
Northern Marianas College
Boise State University
4print 22
Lee Epperson
Jay Sanchez
Peter Aldan
Eileen Babauta
Coach
Emily Quitagua
Natasha Kuckuck
Mike Towle
James Priest
Varsity Golf 2nd overall
Competitions
Bank Of Guam 2011 Calendar Photo Contest
Library Month Poster Contest
Coach
Talalemotu
Chris Tenorio
Lee Epperson
Emily Quitagua
Lee Epperson
Advisor
Peter Aldan
Gina Sambilay
Peter Aldan
Gina Sambilay
Peter Aldan
Peter Aldan
Peter Aldan
English Department
Laura Kyonka
Frannie Demapan
In the fall, our counseling department held several events to promote
college and careers. Our most successful career day was led by Kamisha
Johnson-Padilla and Laura Kyonka. All counselors used the Kuder program to test our entire student population to get a survey of the types of
career interest there were in our student body. They then used that data to
invite speakers from every career our students had interest in. We had over
16 career groups with over 25 presenters. Students were assigned their top
3 career interest areas and attended 3 presentations. The presenters were
representatives from all over the island community. The two organizers
spent weeks inviting, organizing, scheduling and preparing so all 700+ of
our students would have meaningful interactions with a person working in
an area of their interest. Seniors commented that it really changed what
they considered going to college for. The underlying message from almost
every presentation was that college was an integral part of the journey and
being reliable and responsible was what got them there.
Dave Bucher
Captain James Burke
Jay Sanchez
Frank Sablan
Military Branches and Enlistees
Marines
National Guard
Army
Dustin Pangelinan
Dominic Magofna
Maximo Dela Cruz
Delorina Rabauliman
Brittney Igitol
Florencito Tito
Rita Taitano
Joshua Muna
Jassileen Iglecias
Joey Borja
Kaelany Camacho
Louie Dean Bautista
Our counseling department also held several successful senior and junior nights with parents and NMC representatives
to give students a Smart Start on the college process. They
walked our students and parents through the process of applying for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA),
and other important parts of applying for college. The most
amazing part of these nights was the amount of parent involvement we saw. There was close to 100% involvement on
all of these events, the highest parent involvement KHS has
ever seen.
KHS students proudly represented our
school in many events throughout this school
year. Many of them brought home bragging
rights.
The KHS family is very proud of this
school year’s successes. Lots of love and
thanks goes out to the advisors and coaches
who provided the guidance and supervision
to make it happen.
7/7/11 9:03 AM
L
ots of accomplishments and successes have
been witnessed throughout the school year at
Sinapalo Elementary School. The Lu’ao Family is grateful for receiving tremendous support,
hard work, and dedication from PTA Officers, parents,
students, staff, community, government agencies, and
ETC donors. ALL students received the BEST education
at Sinapalo Elementary School because of the unending
teamwork and collaboration between ALL stakeholders.
Sinapalo Elementary School was able to undergo major
school improvements such as building projects (renovations and remodeling) and full term Accreditation Visit.
Despite the construction project challenges throughout
the school year, Sinapalo Elementary School’s students
have and will always shine with academic pride and honor.
Under the PSS and NMHC ARRA Grants, construction projects and renovations have been on-going since
March of this year. The walkway is being extended for
students so that they can have better access to and from
their buses as well as cars, especially during the rainy
season. Air conditioners have been upgraded to create
a comfortable learning environment in the classrooms.
Renovations are being completed to ensure a safe and
orderly school for all students, staff, and faculty. Altogether, Sinapalo’s staff, students, and parents have
been patient in understanding the need for renovations,
changes, and constant movement within the school setting, allowing for a safe and orderly environment. Students have been successful in knowing that in spite of
all these changes, they still needed to undertake the SAT
and SBA assessments and that learning must continue.
Flexibility and team work have been the key word for our
school, this year.
Students First
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June 2011
SINAPALO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
CONTINUES TO SHINE WITH
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND SUCCESSES
Our students have been actively participating in various
competitions on Rota, Saipan, and Guam. The following
are competitions in which our students participated in:
They assisted teachers and supervised students during
lunch time. They have ensured that our students partake in traditional holiday activities by sponsoring Easter Egg Hunts and various other activities, in which all
the children participated and enjoyed themselves. Also,
they have been actively embracing the Chamorro Culture by sponsoring the Chamorrita Day for the past two
years with the other PTA Officers from middle and high
school. Chamorro songs, chants, dances, and games were
provided for entertainment that day. Monetary prizes
were provided for first, second, third places by the officers. Students, staff, parents, and community members
enjoyed and embraced the local culture during the day
of activities.
Jan. 17, 2011-MLKJ Drawing and Essay Contest
Feb. 18, 2011-President’s Day Poster and Essay Contest
March 8, 2011- Kompitensian Lengguahi (Guam)
Accreditation has been the main focus for this school
year. Sinapalo Elementary School’s Team has worked
diligently to reaffirm their accreditation status of six
years. With this specific school improvement process,
the school’s team has worked collaboratively to identify
the strengths and weaknesses that will move the school
in meeting the 21st Century Skills for ALL students. The
visiting committee has shared many great comments and
commendations for the wonderful things that are happening at Sinapalo Elementary School most especially
those that have impacted student learning.
March 12, 2011-CNMI Student Recipe Contest
The school has been actively implementing various
programs such as; Accelerated Reader, STAR Math,
Reading First, Basic Reading Inventory, and recently
introduced, RTI (Project Tollai) to help students reach
their full learning potential. Sinapalo Elementary School
will also be conducting summer programs to encourage
continuous learning growth such as Math and Language
Arts-incoming 3rd-4th grade, Science Summer Camp- incoming 5th and 6th grade, and Chamorro Culture Summer
Camp- 4th and 5th grade students.
Fruit and Vegetable Salad Overall Winners
May 4, 2011- 2011 Law Day Poster Contest First Place
Winner
May 14 and 28, 2011 - 2011 CCLHS Academic Challenge
Bowl and Cultural Performance
For the past two years, Education Day was held at the
Joaquin Ogo Baseball field. It was hosted by the PTA
Officers and parents from all Public Schools on Rota.
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Students First
36
June 2011
Head Start Program Reflects on Successes
T
By: Lathania A. Santos
he CNMI Head Start Program utilizes the
CCPORT software to track and report student achievement. There are three checkpoints
in a school year. The CCPORT report combines assessment data so the information can be used
to benefit children and improve the quality of teaching
and learning. The Head Start children represented in this
report were assessed using The Creative Curriculum®
Developmental Continuum. The Continuum assesses
children’s growth in four areas of development: social/
emotional, physical, cognitive, and language. Teachers
observe children as they participate in everyday activities
and then assess their progress on objectives three times
a year as “Forerunner,” “Step I,” “Step II,” or “Step
III.” “Forerunner” level offers teachers a way to identify children who are not yet at the initial level of typical preschool development but show beginning evidence
of developing the skill. Step I approximates a beginning
level of typical preschool development. Steps II and III
represent higher levels in acquiring the particular skill.
The Chart below shows the student achievement for
all 462 head start children that the program serves.
Based on the information inputted by the teachers and
report generated by the software, in the Fall 21% or 97
of the children enrolled were in forerunner level, 56% or
259 children were in Step 1 , 20% or 92 children fell in
Step II and 3% or 14 students fell in Step III.
There are many factors that can contribute to the level
of each child. Children are rated mainly by teacher observations during circle time, meal time, choice time, outdoor time and story time. Children can be in small or
large groups or working one on one with the teacher.
Anecdote notes are taken 4 times within a month for
each child enrolled. In essence, they are observed at
least once a week. Factors such as age, school experience,
disabilities as well as experiences from home contribute
to how the children work when they come to school each
day. Children are offered a variety of learning materials
and learn through play, adults provide guidance and support for the children.
Let’s refer back to the graph. As you can see the numbers have shifted. More students have advanced to the
next level during the winter checkpoint4% or 18 of the
children were still in the forerunner level, 26% or 120
children were in Step I, 51% or 236 children were in Step
II and 19% or 88 children have already made it to Step
III. Children that are in Forerunner, or Step I are usually students that are three years old or students with a
disability , Children found in Step II or Step III are students that are four or five years of age or are second year
HDST students. Overall the CNMI Head Start children
are reaching developmental goals.
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Students First
I
37
June 2011
OES Recognizes Excellence in Action
n the morning of Friday, June 17, 2011, parents
took the morning off from work to acknowledge
the accomplishments of their children this past
school year. As people arrive at the Turtle Courtyard, they noticed that it was on an ordinary day. Tents
and picnic tables were available to protect everyone
fromm the tropical weather. The air was fill with excitement, as everyone knows it was the last day of school
and it was the annual Excellence in Action Awards. This
annual event of our school closes the school year and
recognizes the achievement of our students.
Some of the students were also recognized given the
award for achieving perfect attendance this school year
and being a model student.
The National Elementary Honor Society – Turtle
Chapter President Benjie Seman and Vice-President
De’Jana Muna welcomed everyone to the celebration.
Benjie reminded everyone to stand for the sing of the
national and CNMI anthems. After the Oleai Banner
was sung, the school was ready to recognize the accomplishments of Oleai Elementary School students.
After the kindergarten students, the ceremony continued with the recognition of academic excellence, perfect
attendance, and citizenship certificate for students from
the first to the fifth grade. The Academic Awards were
given to students who received threes and fours in all the
subjects during the past school year. The school also
recognized students who did not miss a day and were
not late to school for 180 days. At the same time, teachers recognized students for being model students among
their peers.
The youngest students of Oleai, the kindergarten
group were the first to be recognized. OES was able to
promote 62 students who were able to complete their
first year of primary education at OES. Nervous and surprised by their names being called, the students marched
up the steps of the stage and received their Certificate
of Recognition by the Kindergarten teachers Mrs. Orsini
and Ms. Mendiola. They were assisted by Mr. Muna, and
Mr. Sablan. With hugs and high-fives from their teachers, the students realized that it was a time to celebrate.
Thirty-two sixth grades were recognized with the Presidential Outstanding Academic Achievement. Students
given the Presidential Awards were provided with certificates by President Barrack Obama. The President Outstanding Excellence was given to students that received
an final average of all fours. The Presidential Outstanding Academic Achievement was awarded to students that
received a final average of fours and threes.
After the awards were given, Mr. Muna, Mr. Sablan,
Mr. Quitugua, Mrs. Seman, and Mrs. Muna gave 80 students the Certificate of Completion. The students have
completed their elementary education and are promoted
to the Junior High School. As the students walked up
the stage to receive their certificate, family members gave
tea-leaves leis and mwarmwars to recognize the accomplishments of their children. Once all students received
their certificate, they serenaded the crowd with a song
that symbolizes their appreciation to all who have helped
them: their parents, friends, classmates, and teachers.
Oleai Elementary School was proud to conclude a year
of accomplishment. Our students excelled in sports,
academic competition, and cultural presentation. JOB
WELL DONE TO ALL THE TURTLES!! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL FOR YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND SUCCESSES!!
Once all students were recognize for the accomplishments, the sixth grade students were recognize for competing their elementary education at OES. First, Mrs.
Patty Mendoza, our counselor, recognized the academic
top ten among the 6th grade students. The top ten was
determined by the accumulated grade point average from
the 4th to the 6th grade among the sixth grade students.
Ann Margaret Norcio was awarded with the Principal’s
Award. She had the highest grade point average among
her classmates from the 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. Coming in second was Johore Diaz received the Vice-Principal Award. The Presidential Outstanding Excellence
was given to Ann Margaret Norcio and Leah Benavente.
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O
Students First
38
June 2011
leai Elementary School looks at how SY 20102011 was one of the most challenging and
rewarding years. As always, the school was
proactive in encouraging their students to participate in
academic competition on the island and on the school
level. Also, OES recognizes the connection between
strong academics and sports. Here is just a glance of the
school achievements during the past school year.
The academic competitions were not limited to the
island-wide competitions, such as Math Court and PJFC.
The Geography Bee and the Spelling Bee were held at
the school. Students from the fourth, fifth, and sixth
grade competed in the National Geographic Bee Competition in the cafeteria. After two hours of competition,
Lenard Marcial came in first place over Vynzent Manacop. Putra Sani was declared the Spelling Bee champion
after he correctly spelled PHALANX. Students from the
third, fourth, fifth, and sixth grade competed at the OES
Spelling Bee.
SY 2010-2011…
Oleai Elementay School in a Glance
tion visit was scheduled during the last WASC visit. The
visiting team was impressed with the quality of education the students are receiving at the school. They also
commended on the active parental involvement that
was evident during the visist. By the end of the visit,
the school’s accreditation was reaffirmed by the visiting
team. THANK YOU TO ALL: STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND PARENTS FOR A JOB WELL DONE!
Beside academic excellence, OES promotes the importance of sports in our children’s lives. The Turtle
Pride was represented well in the Inter-scholastic Sports
Competion. The school was able to send a girls and boys
team for soccer, volleyball, basketball, and softball. The
Lady Turtles were able to defend their volleyball crown
and they were able to come in second place in softball.
OES was able to send a small but competitive team to the
Track & Field Competition.
community members read to the students of OES.
In April 2011, the Western Association of Schools and
Colleges paid a visit to OES. The mid-term accredita-
The highlight of every school year is the Excellence
in Action Award Ceremony. OES was able to recognize 62 kindergarten students for competing their first
year in OES. Also, OES gave 80 sixth grade students
a certificate acknowledging the completion of primary
education. Students were recognize for their academic
achievements and character receive Certificates of Citizenship, Perfect Attendance, and Academic Excellence.
The Turtle Spirit was also recognized in community
sponsored events. OES participated in the Christmas
Tree Decorating Contest in Paseo De Marianas. OES’s
tree was considered to be the second best decorated tree.
And who can forget the school’s award winning rendition
of Mulan at the Annual Saipan Rotary Club’s Parade of
Books. The school was able to showcase the talent and
artistic students of OES. In addition to the Parade of
Books, OES in partnership with members of the community held the schools Reading With the Stars in which
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7/7/11 9:02 AM
Students First
39
June 2011
A Successful Year for Admiral Herbert G. Hopwood Junior High School
A
dmiral Herbert G. Hopwood Junior High
School has successfully completed another
great school year, and is continuing to evaluate its programs, activities, student achievement and overall performance in preparation for the
next school year. School Year 2010-2011 met our teachers and staff with many challenges, but provided us with
ample experience that will facilitate and improve school
years to come.
Thanks to our Public School System, Commissioner
of Education Dr. Rita A. Sablan, Board of Education
members, PSS Leadership Team, US Congressman Gregorio “Killili” Sablan the and our government executive
leaders, our entire student population received brand new
laptops this past school year. Teachers worked arduously
to incorporate the technology into their lesson plans, as
well as to provide guidance for proper usage. This year
was a true learning experience for teachers, staff and students in the world of technology.
In addition, our school had gone a full Self-Study Report visit by six WASC Visiting Committee Members
for three days. The hard work of all stakeholders most
especially the focus group committees and overall chairpersons for their late night work trying to put together
a comprehensive report. Indeed, the visiting committee
was very impressed with the report and just to magnitude
of changes and structured direction that the school is
heading with such great leadership and effective staff to
run an operation to the highest level.
The school was commended for the many commendations focuses on the schools strengths and very minimal on the areas of growth but most importantly the
school was encouraged to continue to focus on what is
they are doing and aligned with the action plan that was
created by the team of the school as a working document all throughout the years ahead of them. The school
was also commended for the many changes that is taking
place such as the facility and grounds and maintenance
area which makes it so safe and inviting to all. This also
calls for its effective school leadership, cohesive and collaboration of its staff for the same common goals putting students first.
The parental involvement is magnificently well noted
that parents were very comfortable and proud to send
their children to this safe haven campus. The successes is
simply because of the collaboration of partnership that
binds the community and the school through many initiatives and school activities that involves such partnership to happen for the betterment of the students.
tion for our 8th Grade Males, in order to educate our
students about the problems of domestic and sexual violence in the CNMI. Real life scenarios were presented to
our male students, and our team of volunteers was there
to guide students as they came up with ways to deal with
them.
Career Day at HJHS this year was met with a different
approach, as students were given the chance to see two
professional presentations in a more intimate classroom
setting. At the beginning of the school year, all HJHS
students took Kuder Assessments, which provided more
insight as to what types of careers they would be suited
for at this point in time, based on their current skill levels
and hobbies. Information extracted from this particular
data was then used to determine which career professionals would be invited to conduct presentations on Career Day. Students were placed with two different professionals, based on data and preference.
The students of Hopwood Junior High School have
actively participated in various extra-curricular activities
this school year, enabling them to expand their social and
academic horizons. Our students exerted enormous efforts in activities such as the Academic Bowl Challenge,
Spelling Bee Challenge, Junior Thespian Competition
and STEM Fair this year. Other organizations such as
YAP, The National Junior Honor Society, The Hiking
Club, The Zombie Preparedness Club, D.A.R.E., and
various sports teams (softball, basketball, track & field
and soccer) were met with true Hilitai diligence and determination.
This school year HJHS took the Anti-Bullying Campaign to a higher level, by empowering our students to
put a stop to bullying here on our campus. The Counseling Office at HJHS sponsored Anti-Bullying Week, in
which each day was met with new tasks for students--all
related to the theme of anti-bullying. Students were also
given the opportunity to attend the “Teen Truth Live”
Presentation on Bullying and Self-Esteem at World Resort this year, hosted by J.C. Pohl and Stephanie Armstrong. Bullying in school was met with aggressive, proactive efforts this year, resulting in a significant decrease
in fighting incidents on campus.
The Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic
& Sexual Violence (NMCADSV) conducted a presenta-
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7/7/11 9:02 AM
Students First
40
June 2011
Ô We are proud of the schools,
teacher aides, parents, and
staff that have taken on the
challenge of working collaboratively in making the curriculum Ò the overall high school
experienceÓ accessible to
students with IEPs.Õ
Special Education Graduates 41
A notable highlight for the Special Education Program for SY 2010-2011 is the number
of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) who graduated from the five public high schools.
For SY 2009-2010, twenty students with IEPs graduated along side their peers, while for SY 2010-2011 fortyone students graduated.
As the Special Education Program continues to work
closely with administrators and teaches in providing opportunities for All students to receive an education the
evidence in the graduation numbers confirm that PSS is
on the right track through numerous professional developments, trainings, meetings, and conversations. Classrooms today have become integrated with an array of
students with verifying abilities, all given the same opportunities to learn district adopted standards and benchmarks. It is exciting to see these young adults graduate
and bravely step into the life of adulthood, both from
the general population and those with IEPs. It is clearly
evident that the number of graduates makes going to
school the striving choice to for these kids to earn diplomas
The Public School System Special Education Program is proud of the schools, teacher aides, parents, and
staff that have taken on the challenge of working collaboratively in making the curriculum “the overall high
school experience” accessible to students with IEPs. The
increase of graduates from 20 to 41 is again proof that
teamwork and the belief that education is for ALL students.
Who receives Special Education?
Children who receive special education are those between
3 to 21 years old who have been determined to have a
disability and need specialized instruction and possibly a
related service. The “determination” is made by a team
of individuals, including the parent, who use a variety
of information such as informal and formal assessment
results, academic records, teacher made tests and quizzes, behavior and discipline records, attendance records,
developmental histories and functional assessments to
determine if the child has a disability and the educational
needs of the child. The child’s disability must fall into
one or more of the 14 disabling categories as specified by
the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: Autism,
Deaf-Blind, Deafness, Hearing Impairment, Mental
Retardation, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairments, Other Health Impaired, Emotional Disturbance,
Specific Learning Disability, Speech and Language Impaired, Traumatic Brain Injury, Visual Impairment including Blindness and Developmental Delay (up to age
9).
How is Special Education Provided? The Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act requires PSS to develop
an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for every
child with a disability who needs special education. The
IEP must be tailored to the individual child’s needs and
must help teachers and related service providers under-
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will be implemented. The following are specific components that every IEP should include.
• The child’s present levels of academic and functional
performance
• Measurable annual goals, including academic and functional goals
• How the child’s progress toward meeting the annual
goals are to be measured and reported to the parents
• Special education services, related services, and supplementary aids to be provided to the child
stand the child’s disability and how the disability affects
the learning process. The IEP should describe how the
child learns, how the child best demonstrates that learning and what teachers and service providers will do to
help the child learn more effectively. Key considerations
in developing an IEP include assessing the child in all areas related to the suspected disability, considering access
to the general curriculum, considering how the disability
affects the student’s learning, developing goals and objectives that make the biggest difference for the student, and
ultimately choosing a placement where the child’s IEP
• Schedule of services to be provided, including when the
services are to begin, the frequency, duration and location
for the provision of services
• Program modifications or supports provided to school
personnel on behalf of the child
• Explanation of any time the child will not participate
along with nondisabled children
• Accommodations to be provided during state and
district assessments that are necessary to the measuring
child’s academic and functional performance
7/7/11 9:01 AM
Students First
41
June 2011
(The honorable US Congressman Sablan was the keyote speaker
during the June 16, 2011 Kagman High Graduation Ceremony.
Students First is publishing his speech as an inspiration piece for
our public schools’ students.- Editor)
Good Afternoon.
We are all so glad to be here today to congratulate these
young men and women for their success. They worked
long and hard to get to this day.
Some of you—parents, relatives, friends— I imagine
are glad to be here because you, also, worked long and
hard – getting these students awake and on the bus in
time, making sure they had the supplies they needed, sitting on them, when they didn’t want to do their homework, encouraging them with love and praise and stern
words, if that was needed, all, so that they could receive
their diplomas today and open the door to the rest of
their lives.
Although, today, graduates, your success is locked in,
worries over, no one can take that diploma away — your
success was never inevitable.
What Do You Do Next?
By US Congressman Gregorio Camacho Sablan
surprise to many of you. And sometimes just
the shock of failing can be enough to shut you
down and prevent you from picking yourself up.
So I want to tell you to expect failure, so that you
are not paralyzed when it comes your way. And
then what?
It required the dedication of these parents, relatives
and friends, and, of course, your teachers, who poked
and prodded you, who gave you a hug when you did well,
who were there when you needed help. But ultimately
this success is yours. Because no matter how much help
you got in the end it was you, the student, who had to
do the work.
Then, survive. Look inside yourself and find
the strength you have to do what you need to
do. Find your will. And find that within yourself
that truly makes your life worth living. Maybe
you don’t know what makes your life worth living. But the darkness of failure by taking all the
light out of your world will reveal to you what
that guiding star of your life should be.
So, again, congratulations to you all, Class of 2011.
Now, as your commencement speaker, in addition to
congratulations I believe I am supposed to give you some
good advice, some words of wisdom, a thought to carry
with you as you leave here today.
Truth is, though, most of us forget what our graduation speaker said even before we leave our graduation. I
can’t tell you what my graduation speaker said 35 years
ago. And I certainly don’t have the oratorical and dramatic skills that will be taking some of you to the International Thespian Competition in Lincoln, Nebraska in
a few days.
There is a bit of advice I’ve heard, though, from another graduation speaker. Maybe in this day of You
Tube and a global culture you will have heard it before.
But I think it is worth repeating — especially since I’ve
been talking about your great success.
I said your success was not inevitable. In fact, as you
go forward in life you will discover that failure is much
more inevitable and inescapable.
What will distinguish your life is how you respond to
the inevitable failure, what you learn from it — whether
you learn from it.
So here’s what a much more noteworthy graduation
speaker than I told another graduating class
just a few years ago. She said: “I think it fair
to say that by any conventional measure, a
mere seven years after my graduation day, I
had failed on an epic scale. An exceptionally short-lived marriage had imploded, and
I was jobless, a lone parent, and as poor as it
is possible to be in modern Britain, without
being homeless…by every usual standard, I
was the biggest failure I knew.”
There were some clues there. This was
a woman speaking. She’s British. Perhaps,
those of you who studied calculus under
Lord Voldemort or other Harry Potter fans
will have recognized that little glimpse of
the unsuccessful life of J.K. Rowling, before
she authored the books so many now love.
She was a failure first. And I am here to tell
you that you will fail, too. We all fail.
In my life, I have failed over and over. I
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was asked to speak today because I am your Congressman. But there were times in my life when no one would
have wanted me for a graduation speaker. I was not an
inspiring figure. I was, in fact, a map of all the mistakes
you could make in life.
The great question you will face—the challenge we all
face, when we fail—is what do you do next? How do you
respond, if, like J.K. Rowling, or myself, your marriage
implodes? You find yourself with the responsibility for
children, perhaps? You lose out on a job, get fired, or
fall ill?
I am not trying to ruin his day of celebration. But any
of this could happen to you.
Zaldy Dandan, editor of the Marianas Variety, quoted
a “very wise man” in one of his recent editorials, who
said: “The youth sees no darkness ahead, no trap that has
no escape. It forgets that there is such a thing as failure in
the world.” That’s right. You’re young. Indestructible.
Immune from disaster. Failure may come as a terrible
That’s what failure can do for you. When it
comes, when it hits you, you won’t be glad to see
it. You won’t say: oh, now, I’m really going to
learn something. You’ll feel miserable. You’ll
feel depressed. You’ll feel like a failure.
So here are my words of advice: At that moment look
back to this day. Remember how you succeeded: through
your own effort and determination and with the help of
teachers and family and those who love you.
Because that formula for success that got you through
high school, that got you to this graduation day, can be
the basis for all your successes in the days to come, no
matter how far you have fallen or how badly you have
failed.
Finally, I would say to you: do not be afraid of failure
because failure only comes to those who are seeking to
accomplish something, who have goals, who are at work
on some creation. Failure only comes to those who are
striving.
Again, Rowling said it so much better: “It is impossible to live without failing at something,” she said, “unless you live so cautiously that you might
as well not have lived at all – in which case,
you fail by default.”
Classes of 2011, please, do not fail by
default. Strive. Dream. Try. And, when
you fail, as you probably will, remember
who you are. You are the kind of person
who can work so hard for four years and
succeed as you have today.
You are the kind of person – and I
quote one of your teachers here – “I am
convinced that we have future leaders and
pillars of the community that will come
out of this class.” Yes, you are the kind of
person who has the support and love and
congratulations of all of us here. Remember this day and be inspired by what you
have accomplished for as long as you live.
Thank you.
7/7/11 9:01 AM
Students First
42
June 2011
Education is a Continuing Process,
A Way of Life
Staff Sergeant Clint R. T. Castro
(Staff Sgt. Castro was the keyote speaker of Chacha Oceanview Jr. High School’s 2011 Promotional Ceremony. He is the
US Army Recruiting Station CNMI Station Commender.Editor)
AS you move on to high school, you will have some
time to enjoy your accomplishments, and perhaps, using
the tools that have been given to you by your teachers
during the academic year 2010-2011.
you will continue this educational journey with them.
You will support their future endeavors each and every
step of the way. As parents, friends, and faily members,
we are half way there as positive role models.
Students you are all gifted in your own unique ways.
For example, some of you will pursue a lifelong learning
career as educators, some of you will become doctors, lawyers, elected officials, business owners, service
members, or attend college and earn bachelor’s degree,
master’s degree or a doctorate, and some of you will
be competing for an extraordinary position, such as
becoming an astronaut.
The lifecycle of education has four pillars. It begins
with 1. Introduction: students entering the educational
system; 2. Growth: students learning and being promoted to the next grade level;3. Maturity: students
understand the driving force to get where they want to
be in life, and 4> Decline—students looking back at
the support and contribution from parents, friends, and
family members who have helped fulfilled their hopes
and dreams.
No matter what path in life you decide to take, please
note the education is important.
Graduates you are in this room with
teachers, administrators, staff, friends, and
family in support of your academic accomplishments and educational needs.
As you begin your summer vacation,
students this is your time to have fun, to
enjoy yourselves, and to absorb all the
lessons learned during this academic year.
However, if you want to continue your
pursuit of your hopes and dreams in the
near future, you must remember to continue the learning process whether at home
or during vacation.
I want to share three elements that perhaps you can
take away and use during the duration of your summer
break. It is called ABC. A- acknowledge your strengths
and weaknesses, turn weaknesses intro strengths. B –
book reading. Immerse yourself with variety of reading
materials, and C – communication.
To the proud parents, friends, and family members,
Ô We DonÕ t Have To Look Far For Inspiration
...Be Thankful For A Great EducationÕ
Paolo Josef Francisco Reyes
Valedictorian
Class of 2011, ChaCha Oceanview Junior High School
…We have much to be thankful to our school, Chacha Oceanview Jr. high School, for we have received a
great education. Thanks to our school administration
and teachers who have made an impact on our lives and
have put us on the path to our hopes and dreams for the
future.
Now, we are prepared to move n and to take on whatever challenges come next to our lives.
We also have to be thankful to our families. These past
years have presented us with a lot of ups and downs and
it is good to know that we had our families in our corner,
supporting us long the way. Thanks to Mom and Dad for
everything.
We can be thankful to each other. The friendships that
wwe hae made here will last a lifetime and in the same
way have helped each other too, in some ways survived
these three years here with success. I hope we will continue to be there for each other and to support each other
in future endeavors.
Often on graduation day we look outside for heroes
4print 6
but I see them right here among us. I have seen in my
years at this school that we do not have to look far for
inspiration and that we each have the potential to make
an inspiring contribution to other by beign true to our
values and committing ourselves to each our goals.
When we leave here today, let’s celebrate what we have
accomplished and look forward with an eye towards how
we can be the inspiration for others.
7/7/11 9:01 AM
Students First
43
June 2011
(Torres was keynote speaker for Saipan Southern High
School’s Class of 2011 Graduation Ceremony. With the
author’s permission, we Students First is publishing his
speech as an inspiration piece. – Editor)
Success Means FailingÉ
Enthusiastically
By Robert Torres, Esq
Tomorrow and beyond, you will succeed and you will
fail. At many things, big and small. But to succeed you
will need to experience failure. I know, some opening
thought huh? For some used to success, failure may
not be an option. But consider that succeeding at times
means being able to fail enthusiastically and never give
up. Yet it takes more than just the love of parents and
the learning from teachers to climb the mountain people!
You do have to put in the time. The work. The effort.
But in doing so it is not all pain or suffering. Enjoy the
journey and always stop and enjoy the view.
In his book “The Last Lecture,” as he was dying, Randy Pausch suggested what we should work on if we are
to lead a life fulfilled. He said that it isn’t what we did in
life that we regret- it is the things we do not do. I’ve done
my share of stupid things, mistakes and regrets- maybe
even silly or embarrassing. Every chance I get at karaoke!
What is important, I suggest to you is that you did themthat you stepped up and tried to grab for it.
Starting today, don’t fear trying. Instead, regret not
having tried at all- because to dare to risk is the essence
of living isn’t it? But as Randy Pausch said, find your
passion and follow it.
I have been blessed with my career, but it does not define me. I often got in trouble for my wise-crack mouth
and arguing. Now I find myself doing this and helping
people handle in trouble! But seriously, I am honored to
be able to help people and be the advocate; the voice for
strangers and friends.
From that experience, I share with you that in this
world you will be called to do social justice- to step up
and take a stand. You, who may not wish to do so. To
speak up against self-serving power. To stand up against
bullies. When you are afraid. To see something, do
something. Against domestic violence. Against unfair-
What does this mean here today? Could it mean that
here at Saipan Southern those of Korean descent can
join Chamolinian descent for a common goal? Could it
mean where Filipino children of contract worker parents
can socialize with Caucasian or Chamorro children of a
privileged status? Or vice versa? Could it be in a setting
where children from our freely associated states stand
alongside a person of Chinese descent in our campus on
a team? Is it in a manta ray band? At the team table of
a mock trial team? At a we the people competition? At
a JROTC competition marching together?
Ho-ranginun jugumyon kajug-ul nam-gigo
Saramun jugumyon ireum-ul nam-gin-da.
A Korean proverb- “when tigers die, they leave leather
behind. When people die, they leave their names behind.” those of us of korean descent here today, this
island is as korean as your last name- we are you. You
are together with us. What name will you leave as your
legacy here in our shared home?
Ang kagin-ha-wa-an ai nasa kasi-ya-han At wala’ sa
kasa-ga-na-an
“True well-being is found in happiness, not in prosperity.”
This salawikain, or proverb, expresses to us of Filipino
descent the essence of where we find our joy of life- in
our family, wealth in our love and celebrating what we
have, rather than wishing what we had.
ness. Against bigotry and hate. Against oppression and
corruption. Here. You.
H.l. mencken wrote that injustice is easy to handle,
what stings is justice. Why? Because will be unpopular. You will be cursed. Criticized. Hated? For sure. I
believe that within each of you is the courage to be the
change in the world as ghandi urged.
Our theme here today is to be the change that you
want to see in the world. You? Change the world? In
his book “Democracy in America” Alexis de Toqueville
observed life in early America, and wrote that through
associating, for a mutual purpose, Americans overcome
selfish desires making an active political and a vibrant
civil society independent from thgovernment. Through
the art of association with each other, equality ofconditions would spread.
Guine gi tano’ta man metgot hit yangin man a’famaolek
hit- kumu maoleg hao gi’bisinu’mu, maolek’na gui ki hagu
Here on our island we are stronger if we get along together- that you take care of your neighbor and he/she
will care for you beyond that. In his poem mending wall
Robert Frost shows us a hole in the rock wall- where the
neighbor’s yard is on the other side- do we fix and
close the wall? Or do we walk through it and connect to
meet on the other side? Would it matter if our neighbor
different? Gay? Chinese? “American”? Filipino? Rich?
Poor? Different would it? Let us not be separate but
equal. Let Refaluwasch: “yami paliu-wal lai”“You are the navigators of tomorrow”- to be the navigator, one must go through training and pass tests to
make sure he can lead the journey. He’ll protect the canoe, and overcome rough seas and challenges. But in the
canoe are different cultures- we are counting on you. We
must get to the destination. Earning the title takes work
and each must navigate toward change for the better. Devote yourself to your community around you. Devote
yourself to creating something that gives you purpose
and meaning.”
Today you feel like doing everything! Chase your
dreams! Commence your life. Continue the learning!
Experience the joy of life!...It is not bad to surprise your
mom and pops with that college degree. And as you ponder, ask yourselves, What kind of change can each of
you make for our community and for our world? Can
you leave this community better than when you found it?
Can your passion and love for your culture translate into
a better society for all. I wish you passion. I wish you
purpose. And I wish you change in this world today and
each day for the rest of your lives.
Congratulations. May god bless each and every one
of you.
4print 5
7/7/11 9:01 AM
Students First
44
June 2011
(Mr. Miyazawa is the founder of Seisa Group of Schools in
Japan and 25 years partner with MHS faculty and students. He
was keynote speaker for the 2011 MHS Graduation. We are publishing portions of his remarks.- Editor)
You have learned many things at MHS, and with the
knowledge and experience based you have established,
from now on, you will be responsible for building your
own future. Each one of you will advance in different directions, and towards different goals, but please remember this important thing: cherish and appreciate your
friends, teachers and all the people you have to come
to know. Remember you cannot buy relationships with
money. Relationships you have built until now and relationships you will build in he future are your treasure.
Remember the many things you have learned from
your teachers here at MHS. Maybe not rights away, but
some day in the future, what you have learned from them
will surely help you move forward. Education is achieved
over many years. Your teachers will be looking forward
to seeing you grow into decent, productive adults. Nothing gives tem greater happiness and satisfaction.
The Virtue of Humility, Deeper Resolve
By Yasuo Miyazawa
The carefree days of youth are over. You will join adult
society and will have to begin taking responsibility for
your words and deeds. This transition is by no means
automatic, and I, myself, made many mistakes along the
road to adulthood. You will, too. You will face challenges
and fail from time to time…. Mistakes and failure we
make serve as lessons that make us stronger and teach
us humility and deeper resolve. Without these trials and
failures, you will make no progress; without the courage
and faith to take worthwhile risks, you can never find our
true path.
…We all have certain gifts, and each of you, if you
do your earnest best, will realize the potential with you.
But no one’s potential is unlimited, none of us can be
all things or accomplish beyond the scope of our natural abilities. Therefore, do not wish to have other have.
Do not be jealous of others achievement and success.
Respect all whom you encounter in life for their achievements and success, while making your best effort, and
you will surely find your true path. You will see that whoever persists in his or her ambitions, even such a flawed
person as I, can gain the respect and esteem of friend
and rivals alike. You see the world through your own two
years, but remember, thousands and thousands of eyes
are watching you.
As you may know, the exchange program between
MHS and Seisa Miyazawa group has been continuing
for twenty-five years. Around seven thousand students
from SEISA have visited Saipan and about one thousand
MHS students have visited Japan. Through this program,
students from both schools have learned each other’s
culture and difference, built lasting friendships and experience many things. What you have learned and experienced in your youth will be a great asset in your future.
I hope this SKI Program and PAL Program that we have
built together gets passed on to your juniors and continues for 30 years, 40 years, and long after.
…Can you imagine losing your parents, brothers and
sisters, friends, loved ones in just a few seconds? I cannot. So, please try to help others with what you can,
when you can. It can be a small thing. You do not need
to burden yourself. What is important is to find what you
can do, feel for those in needy situations and take action.
We will overcome this hardship. It will take time, but
we will overcome it and I hope you can help us, too.
Cherish and appreciate the people around you…(T)o
move forward to your dreams, do not be indifferent and
passive. Act and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Recog-
nize and reflect on your mistakes and failures and learn
from them, and it will move you forward. And protect
your loved one.
A Challenge To Continue
By Camas R. Baugh
There is so much I want to say to you tonight. I think
it was meant to be that your graduating year would lend
itself to the theme “We are the one’s to remember.” You
are, indeed, unforgettable.
When I first arrived here and was given the job of advising and teaching you, so many people said “Oh Cam
you are so lucky to have these students.” Because I have
been teaching for so many years, I sort of rolled my eyes
and said, “Yes, I’m sure they are great.” Little did I know
how much you would take over my heart.
…(Y)ou know that you ARE unforgettable, how do
you stay that way? In order to be unforgettable, you must
stand out from the crowd. I bet you think I’m going
to tell you do something outrageous...like wear a chicken
hat...or hang from the Great Wall of China, but I’m not.
Being unforgettable isn’t about being loud...or making
people notice you.
4print 2
The only people that are ever truly remembered are
the people who are anything but boring, and to me, that
means being true to yourself. The bravest, most courageous thing a human being can do is split from the pack.
To look your friends, your family, your society in the face
and say “I will NOT do what is expected. I will do what
is true.” You have to look deep inside yourself and find
what is the core of you...what makes you deeply, endlessly happy, and then you have to dedicate every cell of your
body to that mission. This sounds easier than it actually
is. Trust me, you will struggle to maintain your identity.
You see, everyone wants something for you. Your parents, your teachers, your friends, your television. Everyone sees an image of the perfect you. And the most difficult thing is to walk away from the majority and focus
on the perfection that YOU see in you.
People will criticize, they will argue, they will judge. But
when you finally find that inner strength, when you final-
ly know that THIS is who I am, and you make no apologies...that is the moment you become unforgettable. People will look at you and wonder what is so special...why
is it they can’t turn away from you. You might be loud or
soft, you might be bold or understated, that doesn’t matter. What happens is that a sense of self, a sense of “me”
shines through the very core of your being and people
look at you in awe. In that moment, you will know, and
everyone else will know too, that you are unforgettable.
My ones....I have come to know each of you over the
last 2 years, and what I know to be true is that each of
you is as great as any person I have ever met. You are
an unforgettable class of Rota High School students. My
challenge to you is to continue. Do not be a one hit wonder. Get out there and let the rest of the world discover
about you, what we here on Rota already know. Thank
you for being my family.
7/7/11 9:00 AM

A Model for Success ROBUST PERFORMANCE

Transcription

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