Taimanao, Ind.-Rota, pledged to work with PSS, mainly in identifying areas where they can provide opportunities for students after high school graduation.
They also want to see more parents getting involved as well as services for students with special needs.
Taimano was joined by Senate Vice President Jude U. Hofschneider, R-Tinian, Sen. Frank Q. Cruz, R-Tinian, and Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, Ind.-Rota.
“Thank you for (your support) and I agree with your sentiments (that we all have to provide for more opportunities to our children). This reflects what our state Board of Education wants: equitable services to everyone, from Saipan, Tinian and Rota,” Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan told the senators.
As of last school year, the high school graduation rate of PSS was at an all-time high: between 94 and 97 percent. Attendance rate for public school students is also high: 94 percent.
A survey conducted by PSS showed that while most high school graduates choose to go to college, there is also a huge number of graduates opting for “other career choices,” including seeking employment.
Dr. Rita Hocog Inos Jr. Sr. High School principal Sharlene Manglona, through video conference, sought the lawmakers’ assistance in finding more opportunities for high school graduates including children with disabilities.
“We have to provide for more opportunities for our high school students after graduation. I think we can find a (common ground) in working together in giving our children what is best for them after high school,” Manglona said.
She added, “Another challenge is also parent reinforcement of teacher instruction.”
Hofschneider agreed: “We need to put our effort together. If it is not PSS, who will (provide education) to our children? It is like, if it is not the hospital, who else will provide medical services to us?”
PSS said its special education program continues to make inroads in providing services, including trained specialists to families who have children with special needs.
PSS serves a total of 940 students with disabilities enrolled in public and private schools. Services range from providing speech pathologists, therapists and classroom special education teachers.
“Let us work together to help our students succeed. Today, is (another example) of us coming together,” Senator Ayuyu said.
