Congratulations to all of the UOG graduates, especially those graduating from the School of Education! We are very proud of all of you, and we're confident that you'll do great things for our community! Remember, together we can make a difference!

I would also like to commend all of the UOG alumni who joined us in our Generations of Tritons March held at the Spring 2009 Commencement! Un Dangkulo Na Si Yu'os Ma'ase'! BIBA UOG!











Pictured above left to right: Kate Pappano, Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, Dr. Catherine Stoicovy, Lorna Gonzalez, and Lucille Linder.

COMMENCEMENT FACTS:

●Fifty-one received master's degrees this year, and 147 received bachelor's degrees.

●Valedictorian: Kristine Delos Reyes

●The graduates earned degrees in the areas of Language and Literacy, Special Education, Early Childhood/Elementary Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Administration and Supervision, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Counseling, English, Communication, Music, Biology, Social Work, Accounting, Nursing, Psychology, Sociology, Computer Information Systems, Finance and Economics, International Tourism and Hospitality, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, and more!

●UOG alumni participated in a special Generations of Tritons March into the UOG Field House.

Memorial Day: What did you do on this special holiday? I hope you took the time to remember all those soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines, who sacrificed their lives, so that we may be safe from harm. They will always be remembered!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful Mothers out there! Enjoy your Special Day! You deserve it! May God Bless you always, for all that you do, from being a nurse, doctor, taxi driver, photographer, etc. The list goes on! Enjoy the following mother’s poem!

Nana

Nana*….

If I haven’t told you already

“I love you so”

And always will

You have sacrificed

You have brought so much nurturing into my life

That I can’t imagine my life without you.

Even if my actions tell a different story.

So though I don’t say it all the time

Just know that I do appreciate you

For all that you have done for me

That I love you too

And I always will…

I love you mom!

*Nana: mother

Source: Our Native Daughters’ Reflection of Guam and Its People by Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera and Lois Taitano Gumataotao.

UPCOMING CONFERENCES:

PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
The Child Caregivers 2009 Professional Leadership Conference will be held on Friday and Saturday, May 1 & 2, at the University of Guam Lecture Hall and School of Education. The theme is “Success Beyond Imagination: Managing the Environment for Young Children.” All child care givers, early childhood teachers, home care educators, and anyone interested in young children and their welfare are invited and welcomed. PRE-REGISTRATION ends April 29. Pre-registration can be made with Anita at the UOG School of Education building, 2nd floor or Joaquin Rivera at My School CDC in Tamuning, 646-2912. For more information, contact Jana Mendiola, 632-2395 or email janamendiola@yahoo.com. If you would like to present a workshop at the conference, please contact Dr. Marilyn Jackson at zoeylancedaisy@yahoo.com.


PIBBA CONFERENCE
The 28th Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference will be held Monday-Thursday, June 22-25, 2009 in Guam. The theme is "Invigorating Languages and Cultures of the Pacific." Visit the PIBBA Conference website at http://www.uog.edu/newsDtls.aspx?id=251 or http://geocities.com/pibba.international.

You can also earn two (2) ED894 graduate credits or CEUs. You must register for the conference before you register for the graduate credits at the Professional Development and Life-Long Learning Center, 2nd floor, MARC/Computer Center/PDLLC Building, Room #217. For more information, call 735-2601 or fax 734-1233.

Please note that the PIBBA course is free to qualified GPSS educators who have an approved contract on file with the Yamashita Educator Corps (YEC) office or who apply by May 1, 2009. For additional information about the YEC Recertification Program, call 735-2470.


PEC
The Pacific Educational Conference (PEC) will take place Wednesday-Thursday, July 15-17, 2009 at the University of Guam. The theme is “Preparing the Pacific Child for Life.” You can register for the PEC at http://www.prel.org/pec/pec-2009-registration.aspx.


LANGUAGE ARTS CONFERENCE

The 22nd Annual Regional Language Arts Conference will be held Friday-Saturday, November 6 & 7, 2009. The theme is “Multicultural Approaches in Language Arts Education.”

FIRST INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
The School of Education will host its First International Conference on Current Trends and Challenges in Education from December 14-16, 2009 at the Guam Marriott Resort and Spa. Visit the conference website at http://www.geocities.com/uog_soe. For more information contact the Conference Chair, Dr. Lou Ferrer at (671) 735-2440, or e-mail lourdesferrer@yahoo.com.

Check out the new UOG-ACEI website at http://aceiuog.blogspot.com The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) UOG Chapter strives to promote the inherent rights, education, and well-being of all children world-wide. The University of Guam’s ACEI has had many accomplishments over the years. It will continue to renew its commitment to the ideals of the Association – ideals based upon a dream that all children will, someday, live and play in harmony and grow up having the care and education they need and deserve to fulfill their own dreams for the future.

Here's my daughter's tribute to her good friend and former ND classmate, Alexis Jimenez. He left this Earth at a young age, but he'll always be remembered by his family and friends. My daughter knows that Alexis is looking down from heaven above. God bless his soul and his family and friends.

Check out my daughter Julia's original song! I love it, and I'm sure you'll love it too!

Child Care Givers Professional Leadership Conference

The Guam Child Care & Development Association (GCCDA) committee is currently planning their "Child Care Giver Appreciation Week," April 26-May 2, 2009.

On Friday, May 1, is a forum and Saturday, May 2, will be the all day Professional Leadership Conference from 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. at the SOE.

The organization is seeking presenters for this year's conference.

The theme this year is: "Success Beyond the Imagination: Managing the Environment for Young Children."

If you would like to present a workshop at the conference, please forward the following information as soon as possible to Dr. Marilyn Jackson at zoeylancedaisy@yahoo.com. The format for the conference is similar to last year with 90 minutes for each workshop.

1. YOUR NAME (as it should appear in the program booklet):_____________________________________________________

2. TITLE OF_________________________________________________ WORKSHOP:_________________________________________________

3. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF WORKSHOP (2 or 3 sentences)____

____________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

4. MORNING OR AFTERNOON PRESENTER:_______________________

5. TYPE OF EQUIPMENT NEEDED:______________________________

_________________________________________________________________

On Friday, May 1, is a forum and Saturday, May 2, will be the all day Professional Leadership Conference from 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. at the SOE.

WEB SITES FOR UPCOMING PACIFIC CONFERENCES

PIBBA CONFERENCE
The 28th Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference will be held Monday-Thursday, June 22-25, 2009 in Guam. The theme is "Invigorating Languages and Cultures of the Pacific." Visit the PIBBA Conference website at http://geocities.com/pibba.international.

PEC
The Pacific Educational Conference (PEC) will take place Wednesday-Thursday, July 15-17, 2009 at the University of Guam. The theme is “Preparing the Pacific Child for Life.” You can register for the PEC at http://www.prel.org/pec/pec-2009-registration.aspx.

Continuing with my previously posted poem on coolness, it’s important to be mindful about the good things life has to offer. We realize that “coolness” exists for those who genuinely seek it. Now what else is there that abounds us? Well, why not add “sweetness” to it? They’re not a bad mix, right? In fact, they make life interesting, despite the challenges that may come our way. Enjoy the following poem relating to this very subject!


COOLNESS AND SWEETNESS

Coolness

Sweetness

Together they are the best!



May your life be enriched with the coolness that abounds us

And may the sweetness be added to give it some flavor

To show that life, as challenging as it may be,

Is really worth living,

So it shall be.

©mnrivera



INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: Empower yourself with Coolness and Sweetness!

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline



Check out this coolness video of my daughter, Julia, performing one of her favorite songs she loves to sing with her grandpa!

COOLNESS ECHO:

Life isn’t all that bad, right?! There’s no doubt that life can be rather challenging, and we just have to hang in there, because sooner or later we will find that it is “coolness” after all. Life is a gift from God, so it’s important that we cherish it, enjoy it with family and friends, and take the time to make a difference in whatever way we can. You have to have faith and sincerely do your best in all that you do, because the “coolness” abounds us! Enjoy the following poem regarding this very subject!

THE COOLNESS ECHO

In the dark bellowing night

Springs forth an echo

Ringing in my ears,

“Where is this coolness I’ve been hearing of? Does it really exist?”

With each resounding

The echo beckons to be heard

From every spectrum

From every coolness angle that abundantly exists

Among those who possess the coolness touch.

Seek and you shall find

Ask and you shall receive

Stay coolness and you will be endowed

With that coolness sensation

Only resolved for the coolest of them all

And the answer has come forth with the familiar adage:

“Coolness abounds us!”

©mnrivera

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: Coolness abounds those who genuinely seek it.

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline

Can you hear the Coolness Echo, as my daughter sings this song? It's there if you genuinely seek it! After all, "Coolness abounds us!" Way to go Julia!

The 28th Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference will be held Monday-Thursday, June 22-25, 2009 in Guam. The theme is "Invigorating Languages and Cultures of the Pacific."

The Pacific Educational Conference (PEC) will take place Wednesday-Thursday, July 15-17, 2009 at the University of Guam. The theme is “Preparing the Pacific Child for Life.”

The 22nd Annual Regional Language Arts Conference will be held Friday-Saturday, November 6 & 7, 2009. The theme is “Multicultural Approaches in Language Arts Education.”

The School of Education’s First International Conference on Current Trends and Challenges in Education will be held Monday-Wednesday, December 14-16, 2009 at the Guam Marriott Resort and Spa.

The 28th Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference will be held Monday-Thursday, June 22-25, 2009 in Guam. The theme is "Invigorating Languages and Cultures of the Pacific."

Have you ever struggled some time in your life? What steps did you take to resolve your dilemma? It’s not easy when challenges are in your path. Nevertheless, you have to pick yourself up and begin anew, so that you can gain the hope to succeed. As part of your success, it’s also important that you live a life that matters. This can only occur if you are genuine in making a difference in the lives of others. Enjoy the following poem relating to this very subject!

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Do your best
In all that you say
In all that you do
To make your life worth living
To make a difference in the lives of others.

Realize that you're important to someone
And your genuine help from the kindness of your heart

To pick up others when the odds are stacked up against them

Gives them hope when they have none.

Remember…
If you help out others with no expectations in return

Then your life will be enriched with abundant goodness

And perhaps one day someone will be there for you too.

Living life right

Sacrificing even it hurts so much

Taking on meaningful challenges that may stab your heart a bit at times

All the while striving to be on the side with one's angel

Whom absorbs the goodness of your beautiful soul

Enables you to live a life that matters.

Keeping up the faith

Working as brothers and sisters

To make this world a better place

Moves a nation and heals our souls -

Tis the power of unity!

Remember that beauty is not dependent on your looks or wealth

But who you are deep within -

A remarkable and beautiful person filled with so much love to spread

Filled with inspirational momentum

To help others because you truly do care

Because you know it's the right thing to do

To make a difference!

And though you're hurting

Though your life is filled with strife that strikes your gentle soul

Sometimes you have to let things go even if you’re hurting deep inside.

You have to release your hold

And let things be

Because maybe it was never meant to be.

Sometimes you have to realize that you can’t take things for granted

Because when you least expect it

What you thought you had can be suddenly stolen

As if someone pulled the carpet fast from under your feet.

You have to hold your head up high even if you would rather cry.

You see, life can be very cruel

And it won’t get any better

Unless you move on with your life

Cut your losses

Invest in hope and faith

And with each day you’ll get stronger, and stronger, and stronger…

Grasp and gain the strength from deep within and trust in God

To live a life that makes a difference -

Tis the wonderful gift of life!

So join me, if you will and

Let's live a life that matters
Because together…
We can make a difference!
©mnrivera

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: Together, We Can Make A Difference!!

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline

I am pleased that the Island Girl Power (IGP) strives to ensure that their mission of providing positive alternatives for young ladies is effectively upheld. There’s no doubt that IGP empowers its members, encourages them, and inspires them to be confident in their efforts to succeed, which ultimately discourages teenage pregnancy, suicide, substance and sexual abuse. As stated in the organization’s website - http://www.islandgirlpower.com/, “We are compelled to speak out against Alcohol Sponsorship of Family & Youth Events and Negative Images of Women and Girls in the Media and in the Community.” That’s doubly wonderful! Way to go, IGP Director, Juanita Blaz, and her volunteers, sponsors, and of course, members! Enjoy the following poem written by an IGP member, who is grateful for her experience:



ISLAND GIRL POWER

Island Girl Power
Oh how I love it so!
Just learning valuable skills
Just making cool friends
Just being myself and knowing that I can make a difference
Has motivated me to soar for success
Because I’m an Island Girl with Power!
©jrivera
Tamuning, Guam

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: Island Girl Power is Da Bomb!

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline

In continuation with the valuable recognition of exemplary teachers who truly make a difference in the positive development/progress of their students, enjoy the following poem. Let us continue to thank those outstanding teachers who impact the lives of their students!

A Dedication to My Wonderful Teacher!

Thank you for everything
For motivating me with your special grace
For allowing me to shine and share my talents
I’ve learned so much this year and I will never forget you
I will never forget the special times we’ve shared
Learning the skills so that I can succeed
While also playing games like kick ball; what a blast!

You truly are a gem
And I want you to know that no matter what they say
You are the best in every way!
©jrivera
Tamuning, Guam

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: A teacher’s grace can do a world of wonders!

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline

I recall some of the best teachers I've had. They made learning worthwhile, educational, and truly meaningful! Some of those best teachers came from my Alma Mater, including Merizo Elementary School, Price Elementary School, Rancho Elementary School, St. Francis School and Notre Dame High School! It's hard to imagine that now both of my oldest children attend ND! In particular, I'll always remember walking in the halls of ND, having that Royal pride, knowing that my teachers cared, and being empowered to make a difference! Enjoy the following song my daughter performed with much ND Royal Pride!

Is there a special teacher that motivated you to excel? Do you owe her/him a wealth of gratitude for imparting knowledge and life lessons that truly made a difference? There’s no doubt that such teachers should be recognized for all that they do to make a difference. Here’s a poem that goes out to all the teachers who have made and continue to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.

A Dedication to My Dearest Teacher

Thank you for everything

For being the best teacher any child can ask for

For without you,

I wouldn’t be where I’m at now

Without you,

I wouldn’t have the confidence and knowledge

I’ve gained this year.

You have truly made a difference in my life

And I can honestly say that I will always remember you

I will always remember how you motivated me

How you never gave up on me

For you demanded the best with special grace

And you knew I had the potential deep down inside

You knew it all along…

I want you to know too

That I knew you cared and I love you too!

©frivera

Tamuning, Guam

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: A teacher who truly cares will not give up on her students.

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline

Here are a couple of useful literacy resources that you can navigate online to gather more ideas to enhance your instruction:

http://www.literacy.uconn.edu/
http://www.breakthroughtoliteracy.com/

Enjoy, and continue to empower your students to excel!

Words that naturally flow from your thoughts and feelings are a form of art called poetry. It’s a good practice to keep a journal by your side, so that you can write to your heart’s content, no matter where you are. Even when people criticize what you write, you should not be discouraged. After all, we’re all entitled to our own opinions, and just because someone says something negative, our freedom to express our own thoughts and feelings can overpower the naysayers. Believe in yourself, express yourself, and let your poetry flow from the depths of your heart! I hope you enjoy the following poem, which relates to this very subject:


MY POETRY

My imagination runs wild,
As I grab a pen and write away.
The emotions linger about,
Pushing me to set it free.
It shall be set free in the words that I write.
It shall be set free in the feelings that I express.
It shall be set free, just by knowing it is mine.
My own thoughts,
My own words,
My own feelings --
That in itself is poetry,
Whether it is liked by others or not;
I know this to be true,
That as long as it is dear to my heart,
It's as special as can be,
And no one can deny that it is poetry!
©mnrivera


INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: Poetry comes naturally from thy heart.

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline

As an educator and a parent, I know the importance of reading. I encourage others to motivate their children to read, and to be reminded that reading is the key to get ahead in life. I hope you enjoy the following poem that tells us all about this very subject:

READING IS THE KEY

Reading is the key
To take you to places far and beyond
To capture your heart
To gain a wealth of knowledge
As you journey into an exciting world
Filled with meaningful words
Found in a book
Found in a magazine
Found in a newspaper
Found in a journal
Found in a comic –
Found in anything with print.

Take the time to read.
Read here
Read there
Read anywhere and everywhere
For the stories never cease
And the reading never ends
For the reader with the passion
To read, read, and read!

So if you want to go to worthwhile places
And reach the pinnacle of success
You can possess the winning ingredient
By taking the time to READ!
©mnrivera

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE: Reading is important to get ahead in life!

Source: Guam Poets Club, URL: www.geocities.com/guampoetsonline