Teachers of the year honored

CNMI Teachers of the Year Barbra Gilles (1999) and Jonas Barcinas (2000) were honored in a public service recognition ceremony yesterday for their exemplary performance and dedication as advocates of education in the Northern Marianas.

Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio and Lt. Gov. Jesus R. Sablan presented Ms. Gilles and Mr. Barcinas plaques with warm words of appreciation for their untiring support and enthusiasm in uplifting the quality of education in the commonwealth.

Yesterday’s recognition was part of the CNMI Government Recognition Week spearheaded by the Governor’s Office, giving due credit to deserving public servants in all government agencies.

“I appeal to you to please help us help our children and build our community,” Mr. Tenorio told PSS faculty and staff in a brief speech he delivered at the PSS central office.

Mr. Sablan also expressed appreciation to this year’s outstanding PSS employees on their hard work and patience.

“Being here today reminds me of words coming from Secretary of Labor Perkins as he warned the world about social justice. He said that unless there is social progress, there will be no social justice.

“I think what these teachers have done with the rest of the PSS staff, we have already gained social progress. Hopefully, social justice will just be around the corner,” said Mr. Sablan.

Mr. Barcinas of San Vicente Elementary School was voted CNMI Teacher of the Year during November’s Education Day celebration last year. He succeeds Ms. Gilles of Tanapag Elementary School.

Both teachers of the year like many others before them were chosen by the CNMI State Selection panel selecting from among a number of other outstanding educators from CNMI public schools.

The selection panel comprises of individuals from both the government and public sector.

Mr. Barcinas and Ms. Gilles have represented the CNMI in numerous national education forums off-island to date.