By Emmanuel T. Erediano
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Variety News Staff
STUDENTS of Northern Marianas International School and First Step Day Care Center received mental health support as classes resumed on April 22, 2026, one week after Super Typhoon Sinlaku devastated the islands.
According to FSDC Director Eden Ordas (not Dordas as earlier reported), the school and day care center reopened for shortened hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“We were ready, and of course we wanted to know how our students were coping with the impact of the super typhoon,” she said.
She said they were pleased to announce the resumption of operations as recovery efforts continue. As staff work toward normal operations, Ordas asked parents for support in ensuring their children arrive prepared each day.
In an interview, Ordas said younger children appeared to benefit from rest time, possibly due to difficult conditions at home following the storm.
“At NMIS, they were finally able to get the comfort they needed,” she said.
She also asked parents to ensure children bring snacks, lunch, and drinks, as well as diapers, wipes, and other necessary sanitary supplies to keep students healthy, comfortable, and safe throughout the day.
“We truly appreciate your patience, understanding, and cooperation during this recovery period. Our priority remains the safety and well-being of all children and staff,” she said.
Northern Marianas International School Principal Katherine Barja said staff focused on helping students adjust on the first day back. For Kinder to Grade 6 students, teachers began with regrouping activities, followed by movies to help them relax. Staff also checked whether students had bathed and eaten meals.
“We were trying to help the kids cope, especially those whose homes were completely damaged,” Barja said. “We asked them first and evaluated if they had showered and eaten, because those were our priorities.”
Emotional moment
Ordas also shared a moment that deeply moved her during free play in art class, when students were encouraged to express their feelings through drawings.
One Kindergarten 4 student drew what he experienced during Super Typhoon Sinlaku — flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds. He also drew a sun with a sad face.
“Then he pointed to a figure in his drawing and said something I will never forget: ‘Teacher, Daddy is a superhero because he goes out even when there is a typhoon,’” Ordas said.
“In that moment, I was reminded how children see the world — not just through fear, but through love, courage, and hope. While we may remember the storm for its destruction, he remembers his father’s bravery. Sometimes, in the middle of chaos, our children are quietly watching — and finding their own heroes.”
She added that parents who worked to protect their families during the storm should know their children notice their efforts.
“In their eyes, you are their superheroes,” she said.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
