Deadline ends for PSS commissioner applicants

The submission period for applications for the recently vacated position of Education Commissioner for the Public School System ended at the close of business yesterday.

Though the release of names of the applicants is expected Monday, one sure bid is that of former CNMI Board of Education teacher representative Ambrose M. Bennett, who spoke yesterday with the Saipan Tribune.

“[The opportunity to apply for the position] was the last thing from my mind. I never dreamed that I would have the opportunity,” he said. “I believe that this is bigger than me, the circumstances that have led to me having the opportunity prove that.”

The “circumstances” refer to the recent Board-prompted resignation of previous Commissioner David M. Borja, who tendered his resignation earlier this year amid controversy surrounding his fulfillment of the post’s qualification requirements.

The position of commissioner comes with a four-year appointment, a collection of highly demanding duties, and a slew of challenging qualification requirements to ensure the appointment of an experienced, competent individual.

The requirements include a “master’s degree in some field of education from an accredited college or university,” as well as, “at least five years experience in teaching or education administration.” Both requirements are inscribed in the by-laws of the Board of Education.

According to Board of Education chair Lucia Linda Blanco-Maratita, the selection process also includes the Board’s evaluation of the candidates’ fulfillment of the qualification requirements.

The job vacancy announcement for the position, as posted by the Human Resources Office for the Public School System, says the successful candidate must have a “demonstrated…commitment to educational excellence,” as well as the ability to “demonstrate knowledge and experience in applying current education research and practices and a clear record of improving student achievement.”

When asked if he believes himself possessing the qualities necessary to become the system’s new Commissioner, Bennett said, “I think I should be one of the best choices…I know that I’m a winner.”

Bennett disclosed the link between his confidence in his ability and the “support I’ve been getting from teachers, staff and people in the community… at all economic and social levels.”

The former teacher representative, who submitted close to 15 pages of references for the position, said he is ready to serve “at the pleasure of the Board.”

“I believe there should be a controlling agency over the Commissioner. If [the Commissioner] can’t satisfy [the Board’s] expectations, we need a new leader,” he said. “The new board saw fit to change the leadership, so we have to follow their decision. I think we have one of the best boards now that we have had in a long time. I really do.”

Bennett chose not to elaborate on his platform should he be chosen, but stated, “I do have ideas for change and improvement.”

According to Blanco-Maratita, the board will meet next week to evaluate the applicants and hopes to come to a decision by Aug. 1, before the beginning of PSS’ 2008-2009 school year.