PSS classes canceled today and tomorrow; shelters activated

All CNMI Public School System classes on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota are canceled today, Tuesday, Oct. 10, and tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 11, as the CNMI expects Typhoon Bolaven to make landfall today.

The closure also covers Head Start/Early Head Start and Early Intervention programs. In addition, all PSS events, activities, travel, and commutes scheduled for these dates are suspended, according to a memorandum interim education commissioner Donna M. Flores issued yesterday.

“We understand that you and your family may be feeling worried or anxious due to the anticipated weather forecasts, and we thank you for your patience as we gather the most accurate and up-to-date information to help us make informed decisions,” states the memo.

As of 2pm yesterday, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios declared Typhoon Condition II for the islands of Saipan and Tinian, and maintained Typhoon Condition III for the island of Rota.

Flores added, “Please be advised that we are monitoring the weather closely and are in constant communication with the appropriate government agencies. We will continue to provide timely updates as the situation arises.

“As always, thank you for your patience and understanding. We encourage everyone to stay calm and protected during this time. For the most accurate information on the weather, designated shelters, and transportation to shelters, please refer to official notices from the Office of the Governor and Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Please take care and stay safe,” the memo added.

Separately, Flores held a press conference yesterday morning during which she announced that classes for today and tomorrow are canceled.

As in the past, PSS schools will be used as shelters. As of yesterday at 6pm, shelters have been activated for Saipan at:

Koblerville Elementary School cafeteria

Marianas High School cafeteria

Kagman High School cafeteria

CNMI Office on Aging (Man’amko Center) for persons with disabilities and those with medical needs

On Tinian, the shelter is Tinian Elementary School cafeteria, and on Rota, the shelter is the Sinapalo Office on Aging (Man’amko Center).

In her message to parents and children, Flores said, “I know there’s a lot of anxiety out there—we’ve been through this so many times. But, you know, for those that are feeling uneasy, please I ask, if you can at all possible, put your energy into preparedness. Just continue securing your surroundings and get activities ready for your kids to keep them engaged, especially if the power will be out…”

In a separate memo, PSS shared a mental health message through social media. They shared tips on how to take care of one’s mental health and prepare people’s minds as the storm approaches.

Some tips they shared are:

Stay updated but keep a balance so you know what is happening but you don’t overwhelm yourself.

Try to do things you enjoy like sing, dance, read or tell stories. It can make things better even for a little while.

Talking helps us feel less alone so it’s ok to ask “How are you feeling about the storm?”

Make a Fun Go-Kit: Fill a box with cards, coloring books, games, even scratch paper. If things get tough, this box can give everyone a little boost of things to do.

Stay positive! Storms are serious, but it’s good to focus on positive things like how you prepared and how strong our community is!

“Little ones might not always tell us when they’re worried or scared. If you notice they’re having trouble sleeping or sticking close to you more than usual, give them some extra attention by comforting them and spending more time talking to them, answering any questions they may have with a reassuring tone. Sometimes, their favorite bedtime story or a story from your family can help soothe them. Children take cues from adults and assure them family and friends are here to take care of them and keep them safe. Children with strong emotional supports are better able to cope with challenging times. Especially among teens, peer relationships can decrease isolation and add to their support from caregivers who may be experiencing their own distress. We’ve faced tough times before, and we’ve made it through. Let’s look out for one another, stay safe, and remember we are a united PSS family,” said the memo.