New elementary school opens smoothly

Close to 800 Kagman Elementary School students showed up yesterday to attend their classes at CNMI’s newest public campus, adding two to three more students to every class roster than originally expected.

Acting principal Frances Taimanao had anticipated 750 students to grace the school opening based on official registration figures.

“But we have accommodated the additional students and we are still on the lookout for several more who are registered but have not yet showed up. We will still accept them,” said Ms. Taimanao.

The school administration braved a crowd of excited school children and parents yesterday who flocked the Building A front office inquiring about room assignments.

“For most of the students, it was their first time to set foot on campus so we lead them the way. Plus, there are some students from other schools who have also been instructed to attend here. . . so this was basically the bulk of concerns we encountered,” said the acting principal.

To better acquaint parents with the new Kagman Elementary School system, Ms. Taimanao is calling for an orientation meeting today at 6:00 p.m. to be held at the campus’ cafeterium.

The new school is currently staffed with 26 classroom teachers, one special education instructor, one teacher librarian, and several maintenance personnel.

Classes start daily from Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Education Commissioner Rita H. Inos said students will be made to complete the 180 instructional days similar to other public schools.

“They will not be having some of the intercessions that the other schools are having but definitely the teachers will follow the 180 days,” said the commissioner.

Like other schools, Kagman students will be given a two-week holiday break in December, Dr. Inos added.

The projected final day of instruction for Kagman elementary is set for June 20, 2001.
“This is a little later than most schools but we’re making up for the difference by not having the one week intercession that we usually have. But the following school year when the new cycle begins, then everyone will be in sync,” the commissioner added.

A ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony was held last week prior to the actual start of class sessions at the $6 million school facility.

Dr. Inos, during the ceremony, recognized parents, teachers, principals, Kagman residents, and other public schools for their contribution in realizing one of PSS’ ultimate goals to finally open up CNMI’s 16th public school.

“It’s been a long awaited birth, a long awaited growth but at last, our journey begins. I look forward to working with each and everyone of you, to continue the enhancement of education in the commonwealth which is a dream we all share,” Dr. Inos addressed government officials and guests at Friday’s historical event.