Oleai Elementary 4th graders learn about tourism

The Marianas Tourism Education Council and Marianas Visitors Authority shared their tourism education message with fourth graders at Oleai Elementary School last March 6.

The outreach team is engaging 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders this year on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with information and activities highlighting the Marianas’ primary economic driver, how it impacts their lives, and ways students can support tourism even at a young age. The presentation also includes an overview of programs and activities of the MVA, including its annual signature events like this month’s Tinian Hot Pepper Festival and Saipan Marathon 2024 last Saturday.

Fourth grade teacher Esther Manzano commented that her students “learned a lot of new things” and were also “surprised about Pagan’s black sand and the other beautiful attractions in the CNMI. “

Roselle Carreon, also a 4th grade teacher for more than 20 years, said her “students learned about the connection between tourism and the islands’ economy.”

In line with this year’s school outreach theme, “Green Spaces, Memorable Places/Kåmpun Betdi, Kåmpun Rikuetdu/Llingil Leyil Walúwal,” MTEC highlighted the importance of the Marianas’ natural beauty in attracting visitors.

The presentation was made by MTEC chair Vicky Benavente and she was joined by MTEC board member Catherine Perry at the presentation. Other MTEC board members are vice chair Glenn Policare (Kanoa Resort), secretary Martin Duenas (MVA), treasurer Larissa Larson, Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero (Northern Marianas College), Larry Lee, Naomi Nishimura (CNMI Public School System), Gordon Marciano (Pacific Development Inc.), and Dr. Yunzi Zhang (Northern Marianas College).

Schools interested in starting a MY WAVE Club to engage students with tourism may contact MVA Community Projects specialist Jack Aranda at jaranda@mymarianas.com or (670) 664-3200 for more information. (PR)