Our students are the future professionals of the CNMI and they now need the help and assistance of SHEFFA and CNMI Scholarship to register or to prevent from paying additional “late-fees” for registration.
I know Boise State and other colleges are willing to waive the late-fees if they get a letter from the scholarship providers explaining it is not the student’s fault for the late payment and assuring the institutions that the payment will be made. The SHEFFA and CNMI Scholarship offices could do a big service to the students waiting by sending a simple letter to the colleges and universities. The colleges and universities are listed with SHEFFA and CNMI Scholarship offices and it may be possible to send the letter to the school and/or students via email. The letter should be sufficient for most colleges and universities to waive the late charges.
I was going to write a personal letter to the scholarship offices but I’m sure this letter will get more respect, carry more weight and get more attention — no disrespect intended. I just pray the letters will be sent to help our youth and their parents if the checks are not ready. I do want to thank the government for responding so expeditiously when I previously protested and complained publicly about the checks. I just hope some of my former government students can remember their critical lesson on “The Power of Protest” in U.S. Government and took notice because it proved what I have been teaching for years, that ONE person (a voting citizen) can still make a difference even in this part of America. I would protest again but even I must be realistic in knowing our government is now DEAD broke and a protest can’t change that overnight — but it can over time. One people, one direction for new beginnings and protesting in future elections for BETTER & BRIGHTER DAYS and we will get them — it is just that simple!!!
AMBROSE M. BENNETT
Kagman, Saipan
