But she noted that most of the speeches delivered by students during last week’s graduation ceremonies also focused on appreciation and gratitude.
“There were lots of gratitude, expressed to the leadership of the schools. Their messages reflected on their achievements and accomplishments,” she said.
Most of the students are still “hopeful for the future,” Sablan added.
But due to the current hardship confronting the islands, she said the students are also mindful about the economy and other social issues.
“I think most of our students are concerned about what’s going on in their community,” Sablan said.
At Marianas High School, valedictorian Darren Demapan challenged his fellow graduates to come back and serve the island once they finish college.
On Friday, at Saipan Southern High School, valedictorian Albert T. Palacios appealed to his fellow graduates not to forget the CNMI.
At Kagman High School, valedictorian Dion Shante Diaz and salutatorian Bofan David Zheng Cabrera paid tribute to the achievements of their batch and school.
