400 participants seen in Rota confab
Some 400 participants are expected to attend the 21st Pacific Educational Conference, which will be held on Rota next month.
PEC solicitation committee chair and former congresswoman Malua Peter said the conference will be held on July 13 to 16.
Expected to attend are educators from all over the Pacific, Asia, and U.S. mainland.
This year’s theme is “Our Pacific Environment: Expanding the Vision, Literacy, Culture and Technology.”
Peter asked the Executive Branch and the Legislature to host a dinner reception for the 400 guests “the island way.”
In a May 13 letter to Gov. Juan N. Babauta, Peter asked the governor to share the cost of a dinner on July 14 with House Speaker Benigno Fitial and Senate President Joaquin Adriano.
“I know that you recognize the importance of education for our children here in the CNMI. This event will surely serve to strengthen the educational programs of our children and we should be proud to serve as the hosting site,” said Peter.
She said the planning committee is currently working hard to solicit cash contributions and services to make the conference a success.
“At the same time, we also want to show our hospitality to our guests by hosting luncheon and dinner receptions for them the island way,” she said.
PSS last hosted PEC, in coordination with Pacific Resource for Education and Learning, in 1999, which was attended by about 500 educators.
PEC allows participants to attend various workshop sessions throughout the three days.
Sessions cover topics such as common sense parenting program, comprehensive school reform, English literacy for second language learners, and enhancing teaching and learning through telecommunications.
This year’s hosting is the fourth time for the CNMI.
The annual regional conference started 21 years ago at a school library on Guam and has grown to become one of the largest events for the region.
Since it was founded, Pacific entities and their local Public School Systems and related agencies take turns hosting the event.