THIS is to plead for your help in the upcoming Framingham State College Overseas International Education Program registration for teachers, especially the locals, who are presently admitted to the above institution for the master’s in education degree. The registration for our third term in the program has been scheduled for May 6-15.
Some of the teachers in the program met with the members of the Board of CNMI Scholarship Office to convey our concerns about half of our scholarship that was not awarded to us during the spring of this year. Unfortunately, due to the members’ misunderstanding of the program’s set schedule, we were informed that the other half of the scholarship was not awarded due to the fact that we weren’t enrolled during the spring. Framingham State College offers four courses annually to coincide with administrative school closings, normally January and June. We believe that the schedule is set so our working hours will not interfere with our students in the school system.
I am concerned that I may not be able to enroll for this term due to the misunderstandings of some people. I am a teacher at Dandan Elementary School and entered the program seeking personal professional development, anticipating salary increase when the program is completed. I was told that seeking a master’s degree is a “luxury” on my part, as compared to a bachelor’s degree. I absolutely disagree with this! I believe that as an educator, I should constantly improving my learning on the new educational trends out there. I work with children from diverse backgrounds that pose challenges every working day! I should be aware of what works and what doesn’t. Getting admitted to the program was great, especially when I knew that financial assistance from the government was available.
I am saddened that the people the locals have placed their confidence in do not think of a master’s degree as a necessity at this time. We live in a competitive world and we make choices to better our lives. This is my choice and I believe that as leaders, you should think about the others who are already filling out their applications for the second program that will start next year.
Thus, if the government can help the artists who needed money for their trip to Korea, then why not help the few who can help hundreds of children to learn how to live in today’s technologically advanced world? I am asking again for reconsideration. Give us our scholarship award. Time is of essence! Thank you for your understandingSONYA JANE OLOPAI-FEGURGUR
As Lito, Saipan
