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BOE proclaims ‘Support Our Heroes-to-Teach Week’
The State Board of Education, led by chair Herman T. Guerrero, proclaimed yesterday the week of May 12 to 16 as “Support Our Heroes-to-Teach Week” at the Public School System.
Speaking before education officials and members of the Heroes-to-Teachers Program, Guerrero called on education stakeholders to recognize and support this action and to participate and show the community’s unwavering commitment to these nation’s heroes: Heroes-to-Teachers, Leadership Corps, Guard and Reserves, JROTC instructors, and student enlistees.
State Board of Education officials and members of the PSS Management Team gather for a group photo with members of the Heroes-to-Teachers Program after the proclamation signing yesterday at the BOE conference room. The board endorsed the week of May 12 through 16 as “Support Our Heroes-to-Teach Week.” (Moneth G. Deposa)
PSS also established the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps program in 1993 and recruited retired U.S. Army personnel to provide a program of instruction that will motivate young people to be better citizens, providing quality citizenship, character, and leadership development program.
Guerrero said it is only fitting to recognize and honor the Heroes-to-Teachers not only on this special occasion but always as they are part of the PSS family and have done so much for the nation.
“I would like also to thank you all for making PSS the greatest in the Pacific. It only shows that your efforts for our students are working,” said Guerrero, adding that PSS’ Troops-to-Teachers and Heroes-to-Teachers programs been big successes since their inception, along with the JROTC program.
According to PSS human resource director Cyndi Deleon Guerrero, the system has about 50 reserved, enlisted, and retired service members who are currently working in public schools.
She shared yesterday some of the highlights of the weeklong festivity that will be capped by a special luncheon treat for the Heroes-to-Teachers.
PSS federal program officer Tim Thornburgh disclosed that there are five “Heroes-to-Teachers” who are now in the process of obtaining their bachelor degrees while others are working on their associate degrees. While obtaining their degrees, Heroes-to-Teachers work full-time at PSS, mostly in the classrooms as teacher aides and instructors. Their salaries, in full or in part, are covered by federal assistance received for the program.
Education commissioner Dr. Rita A. Sablan vowed yesterday that she will continue her dialogue and partnership with Northern Marianas College to ensure that its Heroes-to-Teachers who are currently obtaining their degrees will graduate on time. She encouraged each and every member to continue to further their studies as professionals.
Based on PSS high school exit surveys, approximately 20 to 30 percent of graduating seniors enter the U.S. Armed Forces.
