NORTHERN Marianas Technical Institute Chief Executive Officer Jodina Attao said Education Commissioner Dr. Alfred B. Ada’s decision to resign due to health reasons “demonstrates the essence of true leadership.”
Ada, who has a heart condition, has served the Public School System for over three decades. His resignation takes effect on Sept. 1, 2023.
“Dr. Ada’s resignation is a prime demonstration of the essence of true leadership — transparency and vulnerability,” Attao said. “It takes courage to face health challenges, and I am happy that he is taking initiative on something so invaluable.”
“The reality is that leading ourselves is often the most difficult task we face each day,” she added.
The Board of Education, the governing and policymaking body of PSS, will hold an emergency closed-door meeting at 2 p.m. today, Friday, Aug. 25. On the agenda: “Commissioner of Education and Appointment of Acting Interim Commissioner of Education.”
Attao said PSS was NMTech’s “first partner” when she became the trade school’s CEO in March 2021.
“I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Ada on various initiatives and his energy is always fueled by our students and our people,” she said. “We have received tremendous support from Dr. Ada and his amazing team at PSS.”
In April 2020, Ada met with Attao to discuss the expansion of NMTech’s technical and trades program by partnering with PSS’ Career and Technical Education Program.
In March 2022, Ada and Attao signed a memorandum of agreement to “open more dual credit opportunities for CNMI students.”
The MOU allows students to take courses, receive high school credits toward graduation as well as NMTech and industry-recognized certification.
Recently, PSS, NMTech and Northern Marianas College signed an agreement to “collaborate on…professional development training to improve the knowledge and skills of educators [so they can] address their students’ learning challenges.”
“I have no doubt that [Ada’s] successor will continue to work with [NMC President Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero] and I to ensure the success and continuity of our existing programs and partnership,” Attao said.
“Dr. Ada, Un dangkulo na Si Yu’us Ma’ase pot todu bidamu para i famagu’on ta yan i programma siha gi NMTech. Our prayers for a strong recovery and return are with you always,” she added.
Jodina Attao
