(MVA) — With many public school students in summer session this year, the Marianas Tourism Education Council and the Marianas Visitors Authority were invited to Francisco M. Sablan Middle School on July 6, 2021, to share with 6th graders about Marianas tourism and the work of MVA.
Following their presentation, MTEC board member Catherine Perry and MVA community projects specialist Jack Aranda challenged the students to apply the information they had gained by planning a day tour for four types of travelers: two families with small children, a small group of young adults, a honeymoon couple, and a large group of history buffs.
“We’re so pleased that Francisco M. Sablan Middle School invited MVA and MTEC to share with their students this summer about the importance of tourism and how they can contribute to the industry, even at a young age,” said Perry. “Our goal is to both educate and inspire the students, and we also planted a few seeds about careers in hospitality that they may consider for their future.”
Aranda shared about the work of the tourism office, with emphasis on marketing and promotions conducted in the Marianas’ major source markets, well as annual signature events, destination enhancement projects, tour guide certification, and visitor site maintenance on Tinian and Rota.
“We hope with the knowledge we shared with the students they are able to better understand the importance of tourism in the CNMI and hopefully inspire them to become more involved in the tourism industry,” said Aranda.
MTEC presents annually to public schools and will target 10th grade in SY 2021-2022. In addition to Perry, the MTEC board members are acting chairwoman Vicky Benavente, Priscilla M. Iakopo (Marianas Visitors Authority), Martin Duenas (Marianas Visitors Authority), Frankie Eliptico (Northern Marianas College), Larry Lee, Naomi Nishimura (CNMI Public School System), Gordon Marciano (PDI), and Glenn Policare (Kanoa Resort).
Sixth graders at Francisco M. Sablan Middle School and their teachers learn about tourism and the Marianas Visitors Authority on July 6, 2021. Marianas Tourism Education Council board member Catherine Perry, fourth right, and MVA community projects specialist Jack Aranda, far right, presented to the students.
