Among the school’s much-needed projects are the construction of an awning or walkway — so students will not get wet whenever it rains — and a computer laboratory.
DES principal Jonas Barcinas said for this year, the teacher assistants are taking charge of the event with the support of classroom teachers.
Barcinas said Cultural Day includes the “Search for DES King and Queen” and will be held on May 30.
He added that the candidates were selected by the students themselves.
The parents of the students chosen by each class were then informed and their approval was sought.
Barcinas said the school provided the parents of the candidates different fund-raising strategies.
“They were given a schedule to sell raffle tickets on campus during recess and lunch time,” Barcinas said.
The parents were informed that although the fundraising event is a competition, they should all work as one and keep the school’s goal in focus, he added.
Barcinas said each grade level picked an ethnic group to portray during the event such as Chamorro, Carolinian, stateside American, Korean, Indian, Filipino, Mexican or Micronesian — Palau, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae, Yap, Marshall Islands.
“The classes will be responsible for inviting organizations to perform during our Cultural Day. They will also be decorating their classroom or areas with designs representing their chosen ethnic group,” Barcinas said.
DES is hoping to raise enough funds for its priority projects.
“When the parents drop their children in school when it’s raining, they will get wet because DES does not have the adequate or proper facility to shield the students from the rain,” Barcinas said.
He also said acquiring a computer laboratory will help improve student learning.
“This has been a discussion with the staff and the officers and we would want to make these projects a reality. We have already contacted contractors to tell us what needs to be done,” Barcinas said.
DES is trying make ends meet due to lack of funding but remains determined to fulfill its goals, he added.
On Cultural Day, Barcinas said they will be inviting representatives of government agencies and business establishments to display their educational and informational materials to the public.
He said entertainers are welcome to conduct games for the children. Vendors can sell their merchandise.
“We are inviting the whole community to be with us on that day, and for those who are interested to support us in any way, please call 237-3662 for more information,” Barcinas said.
