Fourth graders of Tinian Elementary School react to information about tourism presented by Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda on April 24, 2024. MVA and the Marianas Tourism Education Council conducted educational outreach at the school in Tinian.
Fourth graders of Tinian Elementary School with representatives of the Marianas Visitors Authority and the Marianas Tourism Education Council following an educational outreach at the school in Tinian on April 24, 2024.
Tenth graders of Tinian Jr./Sr. High School with Marianas Tourism Education Council Chairwoman Vicky Benavente, far left, and other tourism representatives at the school on April 24, 2024. Representatives of MTEC and the Marianas Visitors Authority conducted educational outreach at the school in Tinian.
(MVA) — The Marianas Tourism Education Council and the Marianas Visitors Authority took their presentations about tourism to Tinian on Wednesday, April 24, inspiring students with the message that tourism is a sustainable industry for their community and that “Tourism is Everybody’s Business.”
The tourism team led by MTEC Chairwoman Vicky Benavente first met with the fourth-grade classes of Abby Erickson and Jocelyn King at Tinian Elementary School. When asked why they thought visitors would choose the Marianas as their next destination, students correctly volunteered “the beaches” and “the warm weather,” as also indicated in MVA’s last exit survey of visitors.
The elementary school presentation was followed by 10th graders to Tinian Jr./Sr. High School, with emphasis on careers in hospitality.
“I learned a lot, especially about jobs in the tourism industry,” said 10th grader Ainsley Ancheta. “I also know now what we can do as students to help our CNMI tourism industry.”
The outreach team is engaging 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders this year on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with information and activities highlighting the Marianas’ primary economic driver, how it impacts their lives, and ways students can support tourism even at a young age. The presentation also includes an overview of programs and activities of MVA, including its annual signature events like next month’s Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival.
In line with this year’s school outreach theme, “Green Spaces, Memorable Places/Kåmpun Betdi, Kåmpun Rikuetdu/Llingil Leyil Walúwal,” MTEC highlighted the importance of the Marianas’ natural beauty in attracting visitors, including Tinian’s iconic Taga Beach and Tachogna Beach.
Other MTEC Board members are Vice Chairman Glenn Policare (Kanoa Resort), Secretary Martin Duenas (MVA), Treasurer Larissa Larson, Dr. Galvin Guerrero (Northern Marianas College), Larry Lee, Naomi Nishimura (CNMI Public School System), Gordon Marciano (PDI), and Dr. Yunzi Zhang (Northern Marianas College).
Schools interested in starting a MY WAVE Club to engage students with tourism may contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at jaranda@mymarianas.com or (670) 664-3200 for more information.
