The second bipartisan economic relief put forward by the U.S. Congress will provide a much-needed lifeline for the Public School System, directly funding several existing programs, initiatives and educational opportunities for more than 10,000 elementary, middle and high school students on Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
“For one, this will guarantee that all of our classroom teachers and support staff will not experience a single payless payday,” Ada said. “On behalf of all our educators, I want to congratulate our long-standing partner, Congressman Sablan, for his tireless efforts in securing much needed federal funds to supplement the shortfall in our local funding.”
PSS federal programs officer Tim Thornbrugh said the second phase of the education stabilization fund, a component of the Coronavirus Relief Act, will provide direct support to a whole range of public education services.
“This will not only pay for salaries but can also be used to pay for sanitation supplies needed at our schools to clean every classroom every day, pay for the HVAC services needed for school air conditioners, pay for mental health services and a whole list of other services,” Thornburgh said.
Congressman Sablan’s work as chairman of the House Education Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education allowed him to initiate amendments that will provide federal funding for CNMI public and private schools, Thornburgh added.
Commissioner Ada said the federal funds will greatly benefit CNMI students, teachers and parents.
He also thanked Gov. Ralph DLG Torres for his support for public education.
