“We are giving first priority to NMC graduates,” Mendiola said.
Every year, PSS will need replacements for its teachers who either will retire or not renew their contracts, she added.
At the beginning of the current school year, PSS hired 25 new teachers, she said.
The numbers vary every year depending on the number of vacancies.
During the annual Career Fair at the Saipan World Resort, of the 28 booths of the various businesses and government agencies, the school system’s attracted several high school students who expressed interest in the teaching profession.
Joanne Nicholls of the PSS special education program said the annual Career Fair is a great opportunity for students to see the various careers in special education.
She said PSS needs assistant teachers and specialists in the special education and “that’s why we encourage students to pursue this kind of career.”
Mendiola said most of the individuals who visited their booth and inquired about PSS were high school students.
She said they told the students that once they finish high school they can apply as teacher aides or for any other position that PSS can offer while they pursue a degree at NMC.
More than 60 students filed a certified and non-certified employment application during the Career Fair, Mendiola said.
These students were advised on they can achieve their goals and pursue a college education, particularly in the teaching career.
“As soon as they graduate with an education degree we can offer them jobs,” Mendiola said.
