TINIAN — The new school year in Tinian began not with speeches from a podium, but with conversations in classrooms. Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence Camacho chose to start the year by sitting with students — listening to their hopes, their worries, and most importantly, their “why.”
“Tell me your ‘why,’” he asked. “Why are you in school, and what does it mean to you?”
Camacho visited Tinian on the third day of the opening of SY 2025-2026, Aug. 21, after completing school visits on Saipan and Rota’s elementary, middle, and high schools.
At Tinian High School, students’ answers reflected determination shaped by family, pride, and ambition. “I do this for myself — and for my parents,” one student said. Another admitted, “I don’t like the feeling of not knowing,” while a third said, “I don’t want to be seen as average or below average. That’s why I keep pushing myself.”
Other students spoke about responsibility. “I want to finish school and help my family,” one said. Another added, “I want to do well because I hate being unprepared.”
For Camacho, these conversations were lessons in themselves. Drawing on Stephen Covey’s “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” he emphasized habits that build success: proactive behavior, goal setting, prioritization, and collaboration.
“Self-efficacy,” he told students, “begins with knowing what your goals are.” He shared how his grandfather, the late Gregorio Tudela Camacho — a respected community leader on Saipan — shaped his own development. San Roque Elementary School was later renamed in honor of his contributions to the community.
At Tinian Middle School, discussions focused on growth and possibility. Students admitted fears of falling behind but also shared small victories that kept them motivated. “I want to get better every day,” one said. Another explained that she worked hard so she wouldn’t fall behind her peers.
Commissioner Camacho encouraged students to see their efforts as part of a larger habit of communication, teamwork, and continuous improvement — skills that will serve them far beyond school walls.
At Tinian Elementary School, the atmosphere was lighter, filled with curiosity and laughter. Kindergartners practiced uppercase letters while first graders leapt and slid across the P.E. floor. “Are you having fun?” the commissioner asked. “Yes!” came the chorus. When asked what made school fun, students replied: “The playground,” “Math,” “Activities,” and “Seeing our friends.”
By fifth grade, conversations turned toward the future. “I want to be a teacher,” one student said. “A doctor,” added another. “An architect — like my dad,” declared a third. Others imagined careers as farmers, cooks, or engineers. “You are smart,” Dr. Camacho told them. “And you remind me why I love visiting schools.”
Humor also peppered the conversations. A student asked if he was “the guy in the front office photo,” while another wanted to know if he was good at math. “A little bit,” he laughed. When asked about PSS-issued laptops, he reassured students, “We made sure they’re ready for you.”
The PSS-issued laptop initiative, federally funded since 2010-2011, remains a centerpiece of innovation and advancement. Its funding is managed by the PSS Federal Programs Office.
Beneath these exchanges was a consistent message about opportunity. “College is affordable,” Camacho told students. “There are services and support available. A degree matters. But most importantly: keep learning, and connect with people.” He emphasized the vital role parents play in students’ success: “Thank your parents and guardians for helping you get to school every day. Focus on learning, enjoy it, and remember that doing well opens doors to your future.”
Kindergarten students at Tinian Elementary School practice writing uppercase letters on the third day of the new school year, Aug. 19. The Public School System blends technology-based tools with traditional methods to maximize learning. In the background, Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho visits the classroom as part of his tour of all 20 campuses across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, engaging directly with teachers, staff, and other public school stakeholders.
First graders at Tinian Elementary School practice movements such as jumping, galloping, leaping, and sliding during physical education class.
Students in Tommy Mendiola’s third-grade Chamorro-Carolinian Language and Heritage Studies immersion class welcomed Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho in the vernacular.
Second graders present their quiz results using an interactive screen, leading the session themselves to enhance learning.
Two students collaborate on a classroom activity, using technology to enhance their learning.
In an immersion classroom, printed instructional materials line the walls, reinforcing lessons in the local language and supporting both student learning and cultural preservation.
At Tinian High School library, student leaders flash the No. 1 sign to represent the Public School System’s motto, “Students First,” as they pose with Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho and Acting Principal Edward Hofschneider.
Students at Tinian Elementary School listen as Commissioner of Education Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho talks about using technology safely in the classroom.
