MHS to continue Aero Dolphins program

Marianas High School vice principal Bobby James A. Cruz said yesterday the Aeronautical Dolphins’ program would go on despite the contract of its former coordinator not being renewed this school year.

The school opted not to renew the contract of John Raulerson, a mathematics teacher who also mentored the two-time Real World Design Challenge national champions Aeronautical Dolphins, which is also a five-time RWDC Pacific State Championship winner.

Despite of the non-renewal of Raulerson’s contract, Cruz is confident the Aero Dolphins is in good hands with RWDC state coordinator Jeaniffer Cubangbang taking over the team this school year.

“The Aeronautical Dolphins is still alive and kicking. And we have a very strong group of students who are going to continue the program forward,” said Cruz in yesterday’s check presentation at McDonald’s Middle Road.

McDonald’s donated $1,000 to MHS as financial assistance to the school that will be used for whatever purpose that may arise.

Cruz said Cubangbang is the likely candidate to replace Raulerson. “Ms. Cubangbang, I believe is going to take on the role as mentor and coach to the students. So we’re excited on what’s going to unfold this school year. We have the highest expectation for the students.

Project manager Ann Margaret Norcio, aircraft design engineer Robert Malate, and systems planner Daniel Villarmero are the remaining members of the Aero Dolphins after four had graduated last June.

Project mathematician Masrur Alam, mission planner Matthew Cao, simulations engineer Jun Young Kim, and marketing specialist Edna Nisola are now attending different academic institutions in the U.S.

Alam will start with his biomechanical engineering degree at the Massachusetts Institute Technology, while Cao is going to attend the Naval Academy Preparatory School in Newport in Rhode Island, and Kim will be studying at the University of Michigan.

Raulerson was given a non-renewal letter last month by MHS principal Cherlyn Cabrera based on Policy 60-30.3-164 that states the Public School System “will notify employees in writing at least 90 calendar days in advance if it intends to not renew their contract with PSS.”

Cruz said it is MHS’ policy not to discuss personnel matters. “One of the things that we do is not discuss personnel matters. It is important that we protect all of our personnel, our faculty, and staff. That is our role as leaders.”

Raulerson’s last day at MHS is on Oct. 5, a Wednesday.