Outgoing BOE members presented with service awards

Outgoing Board of Education chair Janice A. Tenorio, leftmost, calls members of the 16th BOE members on stage as she bids farewell during the board’s inaugural meeting at the Marianas High School cafeteria in Susupe yesterday morning. (JUSTINE NAUTA)

Four outgoing members of the 16th State Board of Education were presented Education Service Awards at the inauguration of the 17th BOE at the Marianas High School cafeteria in Susupe last Monday.

Education Commissioner Dr. Alfred B. Ada presented the service awards to retired sergeant major Herman Atalig, outgoing BOE chair Janice A. Tenorio, outgoing private school representative Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero of Mount Carmel School, and outgoing teacher representative Paul Miura of Saipan Southern High School.

Dr. Bobby Cruz, who is the director of PSS-Instructional Technology and Distance Education, described Tenorio as “one of the finest examples of a true advocate and supporter…of the CNMI Public School System.”

Cruz acknowledged the dedication, passion, commitment, and leadership that Tenorio put into both PSS and private schools during her term. “We just want to share special admiration for your genuine pursuit of growth and development of the CNMI PSS through the CNMI State Board of Education, and all the work that you do to instill the values of innovation, and how you’ve participated in supporting change throughout the years, and we thank you,” said Cruz.

Tenorio assured that she will still be around and this won’t be the last time she will be seen helping the BOE. “Everybody knows [that] education is my passion, and for the past eight years I’ve fought for the best interests of the system and contributed,” she said, adding that a lot more needs to be done.

Tenorio welcomed the new BOE members and those who will continue their terms, saying she’s confident the newly sworn-in members will do what they can to ensure quality education for all PSS students.

Deleon Guerrero, who has been the BOE’s private school representative for 13 years, said he is confident in the capability of the new board to do the job ahead of them. “This marks the end of 13 years of service, and I just want to thank the entire PSS family. You guys have been through hell and back and you’re still here, you’re still standing here, still fighting. To all the members of the board past, present, and incoming, kudos to you for fighting the good fight,” said Deleon Guerrero

Miura, who was the BOE’s teacher representative for four years, said, “It’s been my distinct privilege and honor to serve and represent our amazing teachers, librarians, and counselors and…all the educators at [PSS].” said Miura. “To the 17th BOE, you have your work cut out for you and I have faith in you…”

Ron Snyder, Saipan International School’s headmaster, is the new BOE non-public school representative, while Phyllis Ain of William S. Reyes Elementary School, is the new BOE teacher representative. Herman Atalig, who ran unopposed last November, remains the BOE’s vice chairman, and Andrew L. Orsini is the new BOE chair.