After singing “Familiaku,” which was dedicated to their parents, the 48 students went down from the stage and kissed and hugged their parents and guardians.
“It’s a very short moment in the ceremony but it means a lot to the parents and teachers,” a parent said.
DES principal Jonas Barcinas said the students will meet new people, make new friends, and learn new things from their new teachers in middle school.
“You will also see new challenges that will test your knowledge and your spirit, some of them in a negative way but no matter what comes your way, stay strong, stay focused and never give up on what you can be,” Barcinas said.
He joined Dandan school teacher of the year Elizabeth Church, Education Commissioner Rita Sablan PTA officers led by president Vince Torres, William Harwood, Miss Marianas Universe Sorene Maratita and school officials in the presentation of certificates of completion and special awards to the students.
Joshua Mostales, son of Joey and Jennifer Mostales, is this year’s top student and recipient of the Commissioner’s Award.
Jeffrey Centino, son of Jolly and Lyn Centino, got the second highest honor, the Principal’s Award.
The other top students were Danica Domingo, 3rd honor; Stephane Espayos, 4th; Jared Ayuyu, 5th; Jhan Nary Anota, 6th; Lin Jess Cabrera, 7th; Nipighiyong Laniyo, 8th; Clayton Sablan, 9th; and Isabel Villagomez, 10th.
In his speech, Joshua Mostales emphasized the role of the parents in educating their children, saying that all learning begins at home.
“The teachers here at DES can’t do it alone; they need your support in every way. You are both partners in the success of each and every one of us students here,” he said.
Joshua Mostales challenged parents to get more involved by visiting the school and meeting with their children’s teachers.
“Be active in any school activities, support the PTA and get involved in the decision making for your children.”
Centino, who is also the Student Council president, read his winning entry for this year’s essay/speech contest.
His topic was “What should the Public School System prioritize once it receives the educational stimulus package from President Obama.”
Nipighiyong Laniyo placed second while Mostales won third prize.
The Most Athletic Award went to Anna Hemley and Jeremy Lizama.
The Service Award was given to Margarita Kileleman for helping the school on a voluntary basis in numerous events.
Tiano Osada, Laniyo and Centino received the Student Council Service Award.
The top students:
Under teacher Christine Inos —Stanaleen Aguon, LinJess Cabrera, Centino, Danica Domingo and Tiana Osada.
Under teacher Antonnette Laniyo — Jhan Nary Anota, Stephane Espayos, Jeremy Lizama, Mostales and Asuncion Reyes.
Under teacher Reo Arriola —Jared Ayuyu, Laniyo, Clayton Sablan, Lorie Sablan and Isabel Villagomez.
