As a first grade teacher her greatest challenge in teaching is working with different students at different levels. She has students who enter her class that are able to read and a whole lot that do not have any educational background. However, having to attend many classes, professional development, workshops and working with her colleagues, she said that her greatest success in teaching is seeing her students excel. Behind this success is having the passion and patience to teach. Her other success in the teaching field is being part of the shared leadership team which includes, working closely with her colleagues, planning and making decisions in promoting students’ learning and closing the achievement gap.
Teacher Aide of the Year
Frank Arurang is a Special Education Teacher Aide at Kagman Elementary School. He has been with the Public School System for over 10 years. Seven years of his career is spent with Kagman Elementary. He keeps himself busy with school functions, as he is a member of numerous school Committees. He is an active volunteer in numerous activities and school functions from coaching students in various sport competitions to chaperoning in various after school community events. He is always eager to come and help monitor students before and after school. In addition, Arurang shared that he enjoys working with ALL students, but has a special place in his heart for students with disabilities. He is dedicated and committed to making a difference in the lives of our youth in this community.
Trades/Maintenance of the Year
Elaydia Muna has been working for Kagman Elementary School for six years as Maintenance. Before becoming a full time employee, she was an active parent volunteer for six months. It was during her stint as volunteer when she felt a need to provide a clean environment for the students of Kagman Elementary. She looks forward to coming to work daily, and does a tremendous job maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of the school campus. She wants to assure that all students, her kids and others, are accessing a clean environment.
Instructor of the Year
Toyoko Chen is the Chamorro Carolinian Language Heritage Studies instructor at Kagman Elementary School. She joined the Blue Marlin family back in the fall of 2003. She focuses mainly on instructing the lower grades in Chamorro.
Her commitment to strive for excellence is evident in her work as well as the trainings that she partakes to enhance her knowledge and skills in the teaching profession. She continues to participate in trainings and enrolled in courses despite her gain in certification to become a certified instructor in 2010. Attending various trainings is an ongoing activity for her as she continues to develop professionally to ensure that she brings effective and best practice when working with her students.
Counselor of the Year
Dan Basaldua has been working with Kagman Elemetary School for three years. He started out as the school counselor serving the upper grades.
Now he is the only counselor on campus and is handling all grade levels from kindergarten to Sixth grade. Aside from assisting students, Basaldua is involved in other school committee such as the accreditation and the school leadership team. He is an active member of the school community by contributing greatly on the school’s Character Education Fractal Experience.
