Gregorio Sablan: “Public education in the Northern Mariana Islands was transformed 25 years ago by the Education Act of 1988, creating an…”

“Public education in the Northern Mariana Islands was transformed 25 years ago by the Education Act of 1988, creating an autonomous public school system outside of the executive branch of government, overseen by an elected board of education. This decision coincided with a period of political maturation, economic expansion, and population growth on the islands; and the intervening years have proven its value. PSS students are excelling, winning national awards for their acting talent, debate skills, spelling abilities, and science acuity. This year alone, the Marianas High School Aeronautical Dolphins won the national Real World Design Challenge and $50,000 scholarships for each team member. Three students were awarded Gates Millennium scholarships. It is the third year in a row students from our small community have won. Last summer, Saipan Southern High School's Manta Ray Band performed at the Olympics and brought home a silver medal from the London Celebration Music Festival. These achievements were made possible through the extraordinary and cumulative support of the leaders, teachers, and staff of the public school system. Please join me in saluting PSS for 25 years of service to our youth. ____________________”