February 2021

On Wednesday, February 18, 2021, T.H. Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State received Mr. Remenster Johna from the Department of Education and Mr. Aike Solomon, a Senior at Our Lady of Mercy High School.  Mr. Solomon has been selected by the Department of Education to be Governor during Student Takeover Day on February 23, 2021.   Governor Oliver welcomed Mr. Johna and Mr. Solomon to the Governor’s Office.  He gave a brief overview of the Governor’s roles and responsibilities describing the job as challenging and oftentimes lonely because the Governor must make the final decisions after all experts have provided their recommendations.  He described the makeup of the Governor’s Office and gave Mr. Solomon a tour of the offices, meeting members of his staff and the Lieutenant Governor, T.H. Feliciano M. Perman. Also joining Governor Oliver and Mr. Solomon was Ms. Leila Lane who has been identified as the Student Speaker for this year’s Takeover Day. Thank you again to all the host employers/offices participating in this year’s Student Takeover Day: Governor Lieutenant Governor Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture Pohnpei Port Authority FSM Development Bank Department of Resources and Development Pohnpei Branch – FSM Social Security Administration Department of Land Department of Public Safety Department of Health and Social Services Department of Education National Oceanic Resources Management Authority State Budget Office Speaker, 10th Pohnpei State Legislature Environmental Protection Agency Micronesia Conservation Trust Election Commissioner FSM Health and Social Affairs Pohnpei Public Auditor Department of Treasury and Administration

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date Released: February 19, 2021 Official Statement: COVID-19 Chief Mailo Crew and one passenger: ALL NEGATIVE KEY POINTS:          This means there is currently no positive cases for COVID-19 in Pohnpei, FSM, onboard the MS Chief Mailo On January 7, 2021, Pohnpei identified its first positive case of COVID-19, a crew member on board the MS Chief Mailo, anchored in Pohnpei’s Lagoon A re-test of crew/passenger conducted on February 17, 2021, revealed all NEGATIVE test results The MS Chief Mailo will be provisioned and fuelled in accordance with Pohnpei State Government protocols and procedures, including Quarantine for one passenger disembarking onto Pohnpei and depart   On February 17, 2021, the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force met and unanimously decided to conduct a re-test on all the MV Chief Mailo crewmembers and one passenger.  The decision to conduct these tests was in response to a letter from President Panuelo to Governor Oliver to disembark one person from the MS Chief Mailo and bring in the vessel to provision and fuel.   The Task Force’s understanding of the MS Chief Mailo COVID-19 situation was that one POSITIVE case still remained on board.  A joint medical report confirmed the POSITIVE test as a historical case, no other tests were conducted after that.  Task Force Medical Advisor, Dr. Rally Jim, confirmed that while the historical case remains POSITIVE, a risk of infection, however small, still remained.   On the morning of February 18, 2021, Dr. Rally Jim presented 11 NEGATIVE test results for COVID-19 for the crew and passenger of the MS Chief Mailo.  With this information, Governor Oliver instructed Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA) to accommodate President Panuelo’s request of provisioning and disembarkation of one person, an FSM National Government Employee, and with the advice of Dr. Jim provide for a 7-day quarantine period with two COVID-19 tests before and after the quarantine period.   In a letter to President Panuelo regarding Chief Mailo, Governor Oliver stated the following: The medical team for Pohnpei State Task Force was consulted and its recommendation was to reconsider doing one last test for the crew to be sure because if the person to disembark remains negative, consideration can be given subject to quarantine requirements. It is always good to err on the side of caution. The request was heeded and late yesterday our health staff conducted another test onboard. This morning the results of the lab tests were reported by the medical team. I am very thankful to inform you that what was reported turned out to be much more than what was expected. With humility, I want to thank you for your patience, Mr. President. The details on how to handle the needed services for Chief Mailo so it can be provisioned and depart will be coordinated by our medical teams, our transportation, and port authority personnel in accordance with the established procedures.  The MS Chief Mailo is scheduled to dock and provision at Dekehtik harbor today, disembark the one individual who will be quarantined, and then depart.   For credible sources of information on COVID-19, visit: Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services: https://psdhs.fm/ Pohnpei State Government, Office of the Governor website: https://pohnpeistate.gov.fm/ Pohnpei State Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/PohnpeiStateGov/ Office of the President of the Federated States of Micronesia: www.gov.fm V6AH Radio station/Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC103DbQcwFPuaCF4pleV7rw CDC Website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention-treatment.html WHO Website: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public We will continue to work together with the communities to address any prevailing concerns. For general information about COVID-19, contact 320-3109, listen to daily updates on V6AH Radio or visit the official Pohnpei State Government Facebook page: Pohnpei State Enginkehlap.   Ni wahu oh Kalahngan,   Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force  

The Pohnpei State Government’s Special Kapingamaringi Task Force would like to inform the general public that, due to an unexpected delay in transportation, donations are still being accepted to assist the people of Kapingamarangi who are undergoing an extended drought season.   Donations will be accepted into next week, and are being received at the Department of Public Safety’s Fire and Rescue Division, by Capt. Wendolin Lainos.  Currently, enough rice and water have been received and an announcement will be made next week on the expected departure date and cut-off date for donations.   Kalahngan to all the donors who have contributed to the current relief efforts. A full listing of all donors will be made when available.  INS Ace Commercial Genesis Hospital Bank of FSM and Staff Kaselehlie Diner Pohnpei Girls’ Scouts Australian Embassy US Embassy UCCP Robina Anson Kapinga Village, Pohnrakied Leon and Angie Ligohr

In preparation for the expected departure to Kapingamarangi on Thursday, February 18, 2021, the Kapingamarangi Special Task Force of the Pohnpei State Government will be accepting donations until 10:00 AM, Wednesday, February 17, 2021. In a meeting on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, the Task Force received an update from Chief Magistrate, Edgar Lickaneth and Senator Kasinda Ludwig.  Kapingamarangi has received some rainfall, but the drought conditions still continue.  The following donations have been received by both Chief Magistrate and Senator Ludwig: $1,000 from Kapingamarangi natives in the U.S. Military to Chief Magistrate Lickaneth $500 from Ms. Tanya Salas in Saipan to Senator Ludwig In addition, $6,615.00 from the Kapingamarangi Municipal Government has been appropriated to relieve the hardship and suffering of the people of Kapingamarangi as a result of the drought conditions. Food donations have been received at the Department of Public Safety’s Fire House.  Captain Wendolin Lainos from the Department of Public Safety reported the following donations received as of 2:00 pm on Tuesday, February 16, 2021: Flour 25lbs – 22 Flour 55lbs – 25 Rice 40lbs – 107 Rice 20lbs – 76 Rice 25lbs – 1 Rice 15lbs – 1 Ramen – 65 boxes Luncheon Meat – 20 cases/boxes Sardines – 4 cases Tuna Meat – 1 case Shortening – 8 boxes Coffee – 1 Thank you to all who have donated so far: Genesis, Robina Anson, INS Enterprises, Ace Commercial, Australian Embassy, Leon, and Angy Filex, US Embassy, Kolonia An updated donor list will be provided when all donations are received and accounted for.

Governor’s monthly cabinet meeting highlights   On Monday, February 1, 2021, Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Perman convened their monthly cabinet meeting in the Governor’s Conference Room at Peilaplap, Kolonia. Governor Oliver and Lt. Governor Perman hold cabinet meetings on the first Monday of each month.  In addition to cabinet members, heads or proxies of Pohnpei Utilities Corporation (PUC), Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA), and Small Business Guarantee Finance Corporation (SBGFC) are invited to attend.  Cabinet meetings are held on the first Monday of each month.     Highlights from a few Departments/Offices/Agencies:   Department of Education(DOE), Director Stanley Etse The Pilot Program, Neo Tero (in cooperation with PREL), is currently running at Saladak Elementary School The program involves 10 local elders teaching students from 4th – 8th-grade local customs and traditions like the sakau ceremony, canoe building, songs, and dance, etc   Student Takeover Day, February 23, 2021 This program will allow high school seniors to take over the Government for one day from the Governor’s Office, Legislature, and even State-Owned Enterprises like Vital-PetroCorps.  29 invitation letters were sent out during the same week to office heads for government departments/agencies, NGO’s, and government component units. So far, only 15 officials responded and expressed interest in partaking in the project, still awaiting responses from 14 offices. Student Takeover Taskforce will start visiting Office heads during the week of February 1 to start orientation on the activities for that day   Department of Resources and Development, Director Hubert Yamada     Expansion of tourism mitigation fund from FSM National Government Total payments to date to Pohnpei = 1.8 million An additional 15 million has been included. Five year Strategic Development plan is underway – gathering input from Departments/Agencies, etc Business Registry – A total of 1,360 businesses are registered in Pohnpei Top 10 business types: Retail – Retail store (502) 38%, House rental (122) 9%, Sakau Bottled and Market (80)5%, construction/contractor (67) 5%, Food Cater & Takeouts (65) 5%, Fuel Sales (Gasoline/Kerosene) (45) 3%, Wholesale (31) 2%, Local Produce markets (25) 2%, Quick Cash (24) 2%, Car Rental (23) 2% Department of Public Safety, Director Patrick Carl   Security patrols for MS Chief Mailo continue An oil spill was reported close to MS Chief Mailo, coming from Micronesia 103 on Saturday, January 30, 2021 – Director Carl reported that the oil spill is dissipating and moving out of Pohnpei’s lagoon into the open sea Search for a missing person, 21-year old Sidney Bartolome Paul from Kitti,  continues after two months, over 17 locations have been searched across Sokehs, Kitti, and Nett. Please call DPS at 911 for any information on the whereabouts of Sidney Bartolome Paul SALE BAN on Groupers is in effect from January to May 2021 The time period is the spawning period Maximum 10 per boat for consumption Pohnpei Housing Authority, Executive Director Onlino Lawrence The proposed budget for FY22 has been submitted to the Governor’s Budget Review Committee, standing by for Legislative Hearing Lending: Booked 8 loans totaling $180,724.87 in the first quarter Collection: Collected $200,106.11 in the first quarter   Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation, Commissioner Peterson Sam    V6AH radio can also be heard on 89.7 FM Environmental Protection Agency – Acting Executive Officer, Francisco Celestine   Currently conducting a waste audit of homes and businesses with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) 12 illegal dumping sites have been identified across Pohnpei Sanitation Survey of 27 schools, 14 churches, and one dispensary was reported as completed   COM-FSM President discusses proposed Teaching Clinic with Governor Oliver   On Monday, February 1, 2021, Governor Oliver met with COM-FSM President Karen Simion and COM-FSM Facilities Manager, Mr. Francisco Mendiola at the Governor’s cabinet conference room.  The purpose of the meeting was to discuss a proposed teaching clinic at the COM-FSM National Campus in Palikir.  The proposed teaching clinic will not only house the College’s Nursing and Public Health program, but also a Dispensary/Community Health Center.  The plans, designs, location, and geo-studies of this proposed teaching clinic/Dispensary have already been completed and the estimated cost will be approximately $4 million dollars.  COM-FSM will contribute $1.5 million and requests assistance from the Pohnpei State Government in the amount of $2.5 million from compact infrastructure funds. Madame President Simion noted that this teaching clinic/dispensary benefits both students and the community.  The current teaching location for nursing students limits the number of students to enter the program.  This new facility will allow more students to enroll in these two very important programs: Nursing and Public Health. Governor Oliver thanked Madame President and Mr. Mendiola for their visit and acknowledged the benefits of a teaching clinic/dispensary at COM-FSM for students and residents of Sokehs as well.  He requested the Director of Treasury and Administration, Ms. Christina Elnei, and Budget Officer, Mr. Leon Panuelo, Jr. to confirm the availability of these funds to complete this project and advised Madame President Simion and Mr. Mendiola that they would be advised via official communications on the availability of funds. 3. Governor Oliver meets with Pohnpei Transportation Authority (PTA) Commissioner   On February 2, 2021, Governor Oliver met with PTA Commissioner, Mr. Welson Panuel, to discuss PTA updates including the renovation of PTA Kolonia as a temporary location for the Office of the Governor, equipment needs, and plans to corporatize or privatize PTA. Commissioner Panuel informed Governor Oliver that PTA Kolonia headquarters will be ready by next month as the temporary location for the Office of the Governor and Department of Treasury and Administration. Only the PTA accounting office and Administrative Officer will remain in Kolonia, while the bulk of PTA services including the Commissioner’s Office will be located at PTA’s Palikir compound.   An urgent need for a compactor/roller was also shared with Governor Oliver for the PTA’s continuing operations.  The compactor/roller is used to compact soil, gravel, concrete, or asphalt in the construction of roads and foundations.  An invitation to bid has been announced to the public through the Department of Treasury

On Thursday, February 11, 2021, T.H. Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State received an update on the upcoming Student Takeover Day from Mr. Benjie Phillip of the Department of Education.  Mr. Phillip briefed Governor Oliver and Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Peteriko Hairens,  on the current number of Offices/Positions involved in the Student Takeover Day, scheduled for Tuesday, February 23, 2021 :   Governor Lieutenant Governor Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture Pohnpei Port Authority FSM Development Bank Department of Resources and Development Pohnpei Branch – FSM Social Security Administration Department of Land Department of Public Safety Department of Health and Social Services Department of Education National Oceanic Resources Management Authority State Budget Office Speaker, 10th Pohnpei State Legislature Environmental Protection Agency Micronesia Conservation Trust Election Commissioner Mr. Phillip also shared the proposed schedule for the day.  The students will start their Takeover Day at the Governor’s Conference Room at 8:00 AM on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, where they will be briefed before going on to their respective office/positions. For the remainder of the morning and into the afternoon until 3:00 pm, the students will be taking over their respective offices/positions with the guidance of their host employers. An evaluation of the student/employer will take place at the end of the day and the students will be recognized in a short ceremony at the end.   The intent of Student Takeover Day, according to the Student Takeover Committee, is to “provide young people, especially high school seniors, the opportunity to experience the world of work and a chance to practice teamwork, decision making, and leadership skills.” Governor Oliver is delighted to see this program moving forward to help encourage and motivate our youth to one day take over, improve upon and lead our State and Nation into the future. Updates will be provided up until Student Takeover Day on February 23, 2021.

On January 29, 20201, the Kapingamarangi Municipal Government declared a State of Emergency due to the continuing effects of drought.  The Kapingamarangi Task Force, previously activated to respond to drought conditions late last year has been reactivated by the Governor of Pohnpei State as of February 4, 2021.    In reviewing recent relief efforts and existing conditions on Kapingamarangi Atoll, the Task Force has confirmed an urgent need for food to be delivered to the people of Kapingamarangi.  Water tanks delivered during recent relief efforts, donated by Micronesia Conservation Trust, International Organization for Migration – Micronesia, and the Embassy of Japan, are providing enough fresh water for the 200 plus population for an extended period of time.   Kapingamarangi Atoll’s drought conditions have been downgraded from D4 – Exceptional Drought to D3 – Extreme Drought.  The immediate and long term effects of local crop production are severely affected.   The next trip to Kapingamarangi to provide food and supplies is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, February 18, 2021.  The Office of the Governor, Kapingamarangi Municipal Government, and Kapingamarangi Task Force kindly invite donations of food (rice, ramen, canned meats, etc) from the general public to assist the people of Kapingamarangi.  Please contact the Office of the Governor at 320-2235 for details.  

POHNPEI STATE PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS RESUME NORMAL HOURS This is to inform the general public that Pohnpei State public elementary schools will resume their normal school schedules starting Monday, February 16, 2021. The decision to resume normal school hours was brought before the COVID-19 Task Force by the Director of the Department of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse, on Monday, February 8, 2021, and unanimously approved. School hours for all Public Elementary Schools continue at their regularly scheduled times: ECE – 3rd Grade: 8:00 AM to 12:15 PM 4th – 8th Grade: 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM Thank you to the students, teachers, and parents for your cooperation and patience during this school year. For more information, please contact the Department of Education at 320-2014 or the Public Information Officer at 320-223

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date Released: February 8, 2021 Official Statement: COVID-19 HEALTH ALERT KEY POINTS: – On Saturday, February 6, 2021, FSM Department of Health personnel boarded the MS Chief Mailo, from an FSM National Police vessel to conduct vaccinations on the crew and passengers. – The FSM Health Staff did not follow the established protocols by checking in at the Emergency Operations Center at the Department of Public Safety or Pohnpei Port Authority, instead launching from Mangrove Bay. – Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety Chief Mailo Security team observed three individuals, confirmed as FSM Department of Health personnel, board the MS Chief Mailo without personnel protective equipment (PPE). – Of the three FSM health staff and six FSM National Police observed who approached the MS Chief Mailo, only three have been placed in quarantine. The Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force would like to confirm that as of February 7, 2021, no disembarkation onto Pohnpei from MS Chief Mailo crew or passengers has taken place. On Saturday, February 6, 2021, the Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety Chief Mailo security team observed one FSM Police vessel approach the MS Chief Mailo at anchorage in Pohnpei’s lagoon. The purpose and intent of the visit was to vaccinate the crew and passengers of the MS Chief Mailo. In an email from FSM Task Force Chairman, Dr. Livingston Taulung to Pohnpei State Chairman, Mr. Wincener David, it was noted: “we are moving forward with vaccination today with all the safety requirements to be followed by our Team. The sooner these crews on CM (Chief Mailo) get vaccinated on their 1st dose the sooner they can get their 2nd dose for better Covid coverage and further reduce the conerbed risks. I tend to lean towards the premise that if we vaccinate these individuals here the more likely that our colleagues in Chuuk to accept CM” As observed by the Pohnpei State Public Safety and Health Department staff, there was not a single individual in personal protective equipment (PPE), and very few even had masks on. To reduce the “cornerbed” risks and all risks, Pohnpei State’s established protocol to check-in at the Department of Public Safety then onto the Pohnpei Port Authority to provide the appropriate PPE was not followed this time. The FSM Police vessel with three health staff and six FSM National Police returned to their embarkation point at Mangrove Bay, where Pohnpei State Health and Public Safety personnel then disinfected their gear and vessel. Furthermore, as a safety precaution, it was advised by the Chairman of the Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force and Dr. Rally Jim to the FSM Department of Health and FSM National Police staff who visited Chief Mailo, that a 7-day quarantine period is recommended since no PPE was used. Although the POSITIVE case onboard the Chief Mailo has been classified as a ‘historical” case, Dr. Rally Jim, Task Force Medical Advisor, and Public Health Chief has advised that minimal risk is still present, until a NEGATIVE test result can be confirmed. The Director of Public Safety, Mr. Patrick Carl, also advised Governor Oliver and the Pohnpei State Task Force that at 12:15 AM on February 7, 2021, FSM Patrol Boat #3 pulled alongside MS Chief Mailo where a young boy was transferred onto the Patrol Boat, presumably the 12-year-old boy from Polowat, Chuuk and left Pohnpei waters. As of February 7, 2021, only three of the nine individuals who visited MS Chief Mailo are in quarantine at the Emergency Medical Unit (formerly China Star) at Dekehtik. The following individuals are requested to return as soon as possible to undergo a 7-day quarantine period: Ansa Albert Antonio Harris Francis Olter Marvin Peter Joanes Sarofalpiy Carter Apaisam The Pohnpei State COVID-19 Task Force places the health and safety of the people of Pohnpei, all who live in Pohnpei, as an important and sacred responsibility. A list of the above-named individuals has already been submitted to the FSM COVID-19 Task Force for their cooperation and assistance. For credible sources of information on COVID-19, visit: Pohnpei State Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PohnpeiStateGov/ V6AH Radio station/Pohnpei Public Broadcasting Corporation YouTube: Pohnpei State Government website: https://pohnpeistate.gov.fm/ Pohnpei State Department of Health and Social Services: http://psdhs.fm/ Office of the President, Public Information Office: https://gov.fm/index.php/fsmpio CDC Website: https://www.cdc.gov/…/about/prevention-treatment.html WHO Website: https://www.who.int/…/novel…/advice-for-public ADVICE TO THE PUBLIC: For general information about COVID-19, contact 320-3109, listen to daily updates on V6AH Radio or visit the official Pohnpei State Government Facebook page: Pohnpei State Enginkehlap, or website: www.pohnpeistate.gov.fm.

Peilapalap, Pohnpei – On Saturday, February 6, 2021, The Honorable Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State, signed the Constitutional Emergency Order (CEO) 20-04, extending the state of emergency for the State of Pohnpei for an additional 30 days from February 7, 2021.    This is a new CEO since CEO 20-03 as amended expired without any action from Legislature.  This new CEO 20-04 carries everything over for another 30 days. All provisions relating to international and state travel remain the same. No disembarkation is allowed except under exceptions on a case-by-case basis.  Interstate travel is permitted.       PDF file below: Const. Emeregency Order 1 (1) Const. Emeregency Order (2) (1) Const. Emeregency Order (3) (2)Const. Emeregency Order 4 (1) Const. Emeregency Order 5 (1)  

Overall Teacher of the Year Wone Melza Miguel 1st Runner Up Nett Janalyne Aidel 2nd Runner UP Sapwalap Ashly Abraham Overall POY Wone Charles Armstrong       Most Improved school WONE WONE School of the Year SALADAK SALADAK SPED Bus Driver of the YR KOLONIA Pertin Ferdinand ECE Supervisor of the YR. SALADAK Marvelita Moses ECE Bus Driver of the YR. KOLONIA Raymus Hallens ECE Cook of the YR. SALADAK Karleen Aldan Librarian of the year NMS Lerleen David Longest-serving Employee ROHI Cecilia Martin(40yrs) Thank you to the following donors for their generous support:   US Embassy China Embassy Australian Embassy President’s Office Hon. Ferny Perman Hon. Esmond B Moses Hon. Peter M. Christian Hon. Dion G. Neth Ace Office Supply Caroline Fisheries Corp Micro PC NDOE Seven Star Genesis Pharmacy NFC: CITIC Ray & Dor’s TUNA Commission (WCPFC) Etscheits Foundation Yoshie Enterprises Island Spring Best Buy Pohnpei Hardware INS NIHCO Drops  of Life MCS Pohnpei Water Company Senator Simina Sen. Walter Black Sand Pohnpei Service Station Alice and Adihno Ehmes Panuelo Legislature/Speaker Kitti Delegation Madolenihmw Delegation Micronesian Conservation Trust Madolenihmw Student Organization UNICEF For the full list of awardees, please see below: Overall TOY Name Schools Pohnpei TOY 1 Melza Miguel Wone Elementary School 1st runner up 2 Janalyne Aidel Nett Elementary School 2nd runner up 3 Ashly Abraham Sapwalap Elementary School Pohnpei Principal of the year 1 Charles Armstrong Wone Elementary School GPA Name Schools 4.00 cummulative grade 1-7 1 Rei-Ann Damarlane Nett Elementary School 2 Ava Grace Danis Nett Elementary School 3 Joana May Helgenberger Nett Elementary School 4 Haily Eva Hallens Parem Elementary School 5 Leeron Johnny Silbanuz Pohnlangas Elementary School 6 Pamela Jean Patricio Pohnlangas Elementary School 7 Ellinae Hadley Palikir Elementary School 8 Bracey Ginae Phillip Sekere Elementary School 9 Persy Gonzaga Ohmine Elementary School 10 Sean Ikaia Lorrin Ohmine Elementary School 11 Veronica Mae Werthog Ohmine Elementary School 12 Aja-Monique Semens Kolonia Elementary School 13 Austin Iriarte Rohi Elementary School 14 Sherry-Ann Hellen Minoske Rohi Elementary School 15 Elonia Alfons Rohi Elementary School 16 Audrey Lae Une Rohi Elementary School 17 Jaylevnnie Kostka St. Paul 18 Karishma Paul PCS 19 Destiny Haimin PCS 20 Jennifer Sipos PCS 21 Marikai Oliver PCS 4.00 cummulative grade 9-11 1 Emi Suzuki PICS 2 Nanet Jacob PICS 3 Skyles Albert PICS 4 Bradley Zarred PICS 5 Fiji Meshak Phillip PICS 6 Shantelle J. Ponapart PICS 7 La Neatra Fredrick PICS 8 Lancelot Santos NMHS 9 K’Con Andon NMHS 10 Collie Ann Abraham MHS 11 Emralynn Paulus MHS 12 Amy Saimon MHS 13 Vince Joy Perman CCA 14 Elijah San Jose CCA 15 Mercedes Olter CCA 16 Yrra Penazcoza OLMCHS 17 Jade Togonon OLMCHS 4.00 SY 2019-2020 Elementary 1 Sandy Alex Saladak Elementary School 2 Sean Dea Amor Saladak Elementary School 3 Bermanis Estep Awak Elementary School 4 RaeShawn R. Aron Awak Elementary School 5 Keesha T. Primo Awak Elementary School 6 Keano Loyola Nett Elementary School 7 Chinnel Koike Nett Elementary School 8 Rei-Ann Damarlane Nett Elementary School 9 Haily Eva Hallens Parem Elementary School 10 Melsor Andrew Kapingamarangi Elementary School 11 Jannette Makaya ESDM  Elementary School 12 Anjeanisha Primo ESDM  Elementary School 13 Trishelle Tihpen ESDM  Elementary School 14 Elsin Elias Sapwalap  Elementary School 15 Jasian Elias Sapwalap  Elementary School 16 Leeron Johnny Silbanuz Pohnlangas  Elementary School 17 Pamela Jean Patricio Pohnlangas  Elementary School 18 Ellinae Hadley  Palikir  Elementary School 19 Milani Sue  Palikir  Elementary School 20 Natasha Ioanis  Palikir  Elementary School 21 Jehzy Tom Sokehs Powe  Elementary School 22 Bracey Ginae Phillip Sekere  Elementary School 23 Susane Agrippa Sekere  Elementary School 24 Neveah Lou Agrippa Sekere  Elementary School 25 May Iustina Sohl Sekere  Elementary School 26 Persy Gonzaga Ohmine Elementary School 27 LenishaMae Augustine Ohmine Elementary School 28 Meraia Roland Ohmine Elementary School 29 Ben Tom Johnny Ohmine Elementary School 30 Kozel Lynlan Irons Ohmine Elementary School 31 Sean Ikaia Lorrin Ohmine Elementary School 32 Caroleen Eliam Ohmine Elementary School 33 Galeb Hedson Ohmine Elementary School 34 Veroncia Mae Werthog Ohmine Elementary School 35 Keanu Vincent Porter Ohmine Elementary School 36 Raynard Nakasone Ohmine Elementary School 37 Kami-Jean Faith Lohn Kolonia Elementary School 38 Aja-Monique Semens Kolonia Elementary School 39 Sueleen Wilson Kolonia Elementary School 40 Robson Goku Hallens Kolonia Elementary School 41 Kayla Marie Aldis Kolonia Elementary School 42 StashaNay Etse Kolonia Elementary School 43 Ford Saimon Kolonia Elementary School 44 Maylanica Hallers Kolonia Elementary School 45 Zagon David Pehleng Elementary School 46 Maya Venica Paul Pehleng Elementary School 47 Romarsky Torres Pehleng Elementary School 48 Cleayvon Fredrick Pehleng Elementary School 49 Vieanna Spencer Pehleng Elementary School 50 Claydon Fredrick Pehleng Elementary School 51 Bruno Demello Enipein Elementary School 52 Elanna Carmina Weilbacher Enipein Elementary School 53 Darlynn Manuel Wone Elementary School 54 Austin Iriarte Rohi Elementary School 55 Juda Wayne Eliou Rohi Elementary School 56 Richard O’Brien Alfons Rohi Elementary School 57 Sherry-Ann Hellen Minoske Rohi Elementary School 4.00 SY 2019-2020 High School 1 Emi Suzuki PICS 2 Nanet Joab PICS 3 Skyles Albert PICS 4 Bradley Zarred PICS 5 Fiji Meshak Phillip PICS 6 Shanetelle J. Ponapart PICS 7 La- Neatra Fredrick PICS 8 Lucy-Ann Akis PICS 9 Lisbeth Lay Dakanno PICS 10 Quleen Eluel PICS 11 Yulani Hadley PICS 12 Rolihna Lopez PICS 13 Ladricia Lini PICS 14 Trisden Gallen PICS 15 Shane Bartolomo PICS 16 Sado Olter PICS 17 Andrea Barnabas NMHS 18 Donnalynn Hebel NMHS 19 Ibleen Barnabas NMHS 20 Ivan Anson NMHS 21 Janet Barnabas NMHS 22 Jarden Pablo NMHS 23 Jayston Paulino NMHS 24 Keitani Pretrick NMHS 25 Lancelot Santos NMHS 26 Leibolanda Amusten NMHS 27 Leilanda Ardos NMHS 28 Marson Eperiam NMHS 29 Miranda Saimon NMHS 30 Pepo Alfons NMHS 31 Pevirleen Anson NMHS 32 Shawnal Drake Aguon NMHS 33 Sherry Moses NMHS 34 Dasha Alfons NMHS 35 K’Con Andon NMHS 36 CollieAnn Abraham MHS 37 Thevonna Lou Johnny MHS 38 Emralynn Paulus MHS 39 Amy Saimon MHS 40 Elijah San Jose CCA 41 Vince Joy Perman CCA 42 Mercedes Olter CCA 43 Akilla

On January 29, 2021, T.H. Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State, visited Saladak elementary school in U to celebrate, recognize and commemorate the achievements of students, teachers, and principals from elementary schools in U, Nett, and the Outer Islands.  Welcoming remarks for Education Day in U were made by Chief Minister of U, Rofino Primo. The Keynote speaker of the event was a native of U, T.H. Esmond Moses, Vice Speaker of the 21st FSM Congress.  In his remarks, Vice-Speaker identified the many former teachers who were present, including the two-state legislators from U and his wife, acknowledging the value and importance of teachers for student success and achievements.   He further acknowledged their importance in the raising of our children, because of their time spent at school. Senator Moses thanked all the students present for their achievements and asked them to continue to do their best in school and help their teachers as he asked to be excused to attend to his duties at Congress.     Governor Reed B. Oliver gave special remarks congratulating the students and teachers for being recognized.  He continued his challenge to the students who received high academic marks to add on these three virtues: Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty.  As he did in all his addresses across the island, he challenged the students to include these virtues in their academic and personal lives.  He asked them what is next? And encouraged the students to continue moving forward to do their best, because they are the future of Pohnpei, of our nation.  Governor Oliver recognized the hard work and dedication of the awards committee for the organization of this year’s Education week across Pohnpei, for which they received a special award presented to the Director of Education, Mr. Stanley Etse.   After the awards, Board of Education member, Mr. Diaz Joseph, gave the closing remarks.  Mr. Joseph ended the ceremony by sharing virtues of respect, honesty, and love to the students as they continue on their academic journey. He shared a story that teaches students to take the good things that they have learned and keep them in their hearts and minds and discard the rest.  He thanked Governor Oliver, Director Etse of the Department of Education, and the awards committee for the success of the week-long celebration of Education.   Thank you to all who helped with the presentation of awards to students and teachers: Mayor of Nukuoro Senard Leopold, Mayor of Pingelap Smithy Clark, Acting Secretary of FSM Department of Education Wayne Mendiola, Senator Herolyn Movick, Senator Hudson Abraham, Senator Mitaro Simina, Senator Sonster Edgar, Director Stanley Etse, Board of Education members: Diaz Joseph, Phyllis Silbanuz, Chairman Grilly Jack, Nett District Administrator Nelsin Iriarte, Deacon Eneriko Donre.    

On January 28, 2021, T.H. Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State, continued Education week in Madolenihmw, at Sapwalap Elementary School to recognize, celebrate and commemorate the success and achievements of Pohnpei’s students and teachers Iso-Nahnken of Madolenihmw and Administrator of the Office Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) gave the welcoming remarks, calling for unity and cooperation on this special occasion of Governor Oliver’s visit and Education Day in the municipality of Madolenihmw.  The keynote speaker for Education Day in Madolenihmw was T.H. Ricky Carl, Senator, 10th Pohnpei State Legislature, and Luhk en Lengso. He shared a story from Enimwahn kousapw about a fish and a crab that highlights the importance of supporting and working with each other. To the students, he explained the importance of this day to join Governor Oliver and the Director of Education to celebrate, recognize and commemorate educational achievements across Pohnpei.  To the teachers, who will be teaching the leaders of tomorrow, he encouraged them to include the teaching of respect, as well, explaining that even in politics respect is important to achieve and accomplish their goals. He further encouraged cooperation and unity, saying to those that understand, help those that don’t understand, those who are responsible, help those who are not responsible, those who can help those who can not.  This way, he stated, we will all reach our goals together as one.   Special remarks were given by T.H. Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State.  He noted the difference in this year in events for Education Week because of COVID-19, with events in each municipality.  He praised the organizers of the event for bringing everything together, thanking Director Etse and the Awards Committee for their hard work, and trusted that their good work will continue in the future.  He congratulated the students on their academic achievements and encouraged them to look forward to their futures and ask themselves how can they help their communities, state, nation.  He shared the important virtues of respect, responsibility, and honesty to add to their academic achievements.  For without these,  he said, what good would good grades be?  He thanked the teachers for their important contributions, for without them there would be no academic achievements.  He acknowledged the importance of parents in the raising of their children and educating them first at home.   Closing remarks were made by the Board of Education member, Ms. Phyllis Silbanuz,  congratulating all the students, teachers, and principals. Ms. Silbanuz asked the students, who play PUBG online or uses TikTok?  She then asked, do you unite and cooperate for your team to win on PUBG? On TikTok, she asked do you work together/cooperate for the video to have many likes and followers?  The concept is the same with school, family, youth and in government and private sectors, she said, working together, working responsibility and with respect to ensuring success and accomplishment.  She closed with a famous American quote and challenge: Ask not what your country can do for you – Ask what you can do for your country, thanking everyone for their important work and contributions to Education Day from donors to the awards committee, students, and teachers. Also joining Education Day in Sapwalap were 10th Pohnpei State Legislature Senators, T.H. Francisco Ioanis, T.H. Stevenson Joseph, T.H. Hudson Abraham, T.H. Herolyn Movick,  T.H. Shelten Neth, Chief Justice of Madolenihmw Municipal Government, Kiumy Albert, Acting Meninkedehr John Rensle, Assistant Secretary FSM Dept of Education, Quincy Lawrence, Luhkpein Emy Musrasrik-Carl, Board of Education Chair, Mr. Grilly Jack, Board of Education member Mr. Diaz Joseph.  

On Wednesday, January 27, 2021, T.H. Reed B. Oliver, Governor of Pohnpei State, attended a second Education Day event at Seinwahr Elementary School in Kitti.  Deacon William Ioanis opened the ceremony with a prayer before T.H. Antonio Sarapio, Luhk En Moanlap, gave his welcoming remarks. Luhk En Moanlap welcomed everyone as the Chief Executive of the Municipal Government of Kitti.  He shared his almost 30 years as an educator before coming to his present position.  In his remarks, he spoke of the similarities between modern science and Pohnpei culture and traditions, especially with raising and preparing children for their futures.  He noted the most important interaction for children to prepare them each day begins at home with parents, continuing onto school with teachers. The keynote speaker for the event was Kitti native and FSM Assistant Secretary of Education, Mr. Quincy Lawrence.  Mr. Lawrence acknowledged Education Day’s theme of Unity and encouraged overcoming negative influences to unite for success and achievement. He referenced Enginkehlap or Unity as the driving force behind success and achievement, recognizing the achievements of students and teachers.  He asked the students if they listen to their parents at home, saying that children of Pohnpei stand out from children across the world because they value obedience, respect, and love, and this starts at home with their parents as part of Pohnpeian culture.  He closed by thanking the Director of Education and the Department of Education for inviting him to speak at this important event. Governor Oliver congratulated the students and teachers of Kitti on the eighth Education Day in Pohnpei where students and teachers are recognized for achievements.  He recalled the previous days at PICS High School and Sekere and shared highlights from the keynote speakers that included themes of unity, honesty, and respect.  Governor Oliver noted that education is not just conducted at school, but also at homes and in communities.  He shared the virtues of respect, honesty, and responsibility with the students of Kitti, adding unity as well.  He noted that academic achievements have greater value when respect, responsibility, and honesty are also part of their learning.  He closed by sharing the story of a young man from Kitti who currently works at the UN in New York, to explain that student abilities are not limited to success and achievement in Pohnpei, the FSM, or the region, but can reach far away, like this young man who represents Pohnpei at the UN in New York.  He encouraged the students to keep up the good work and don’t give up. Board of Education Chairman, Mr. Grilly Jack, ended the event with his closing remarks. He shared a quote, “While we are unique individuals with different talents, we are equally important.” He referenced Governor Oliver’s previous remarks on virtues like honesty and unity that give purpose to our service to the people.  On behalf of the Board of Education and Department of Education, Mr. Jack thanked everyone for attending and recognizing the achievements of the students and teachers of Kitti. Also present were Senators T.H. Herolyn Movick, T.H. Dahker Daniel, T.H. Francisco Ioanis, T.H. Stevenson Joseph, Speaker of Kitti Council, T.H. Jordan Ardos, Acting FSM Secretary of Education, Mr. Wayne Mendiola, Dauk Kitti, Board of Education members Diaz Joseph and Phyllis Silbanuz.