Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Back-to-School Saturday Story Time - Aug. 2, 2025

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Back-to-School Saturday Story Time on August 2, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Hagatna Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁📚🚤🍎✏️

Happy 81st Liberation Day, Guam!

Happy 81st Liberation Day, Guam! 🇬🇺 Today, we honor the courage of our manåmko’, the sacrifices of our fallen heroes, and the unbreakable spirit of our people. Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ for the freedom we cherish and the resilience that defines us. Biba Guåhan!

Empowered to Teach, Connected to Reach

Engaged and energized during the Schoology Courses: Basics session at the Summer Teacher Academy, July 16–17, 2025.

Malesso' Familia is all smiles at the Schoology Courses: Basics session.

Attending the Schoology Courses: Basics session presented by Raleigh Cruz was a refreshing reminder that technology, when used with purpose, can truly transform the classroom.  From customized grading tools and rubrics to seamless syncing with PowerSchool, I feel empowered to manage assessments with greater clarity and efficiency. Learning how to strategically organize weekly lessons using folders and the “Add Materials” feature gave me fresh insight on how to keep students engaged, focused, and motivated.

With updates, announcements, messages, and feedback tools, Schoology makes it easier than ever to stay connected to students and support their learning journeys every step of the way.  I leave this session recharged—with the tools, vision, and heart to make learning more meaningful, organized, and interactive for every student. 💻📚✨

Every Great Reader Begins with a Sound

All smiles during the Reading and Math for the Early Childhood Classroom session at the Summer Teacher Academy, held July 14–15, 2025.

Attending the Reading and Math for the Early Childhood Classroom session presented by Dr. Clare reminded me that the seeds of literacy are planted early—and that as educators, we hold the tools to help them grow. I was inspired by the powerful truth that phonemic awareness is not just important—it is foundational. When children learn to hear and play with sounds, we set them on the path toward reading success.

Understanding the difference between phonemic awareness and phonics clarified the importance of teaching skills in the right order: first hearing sounds, then connecting them to letters. This simple yet profound shift ensures our young learners build confidence and joy in reading.

Most importantly, I was reminded that fluency is the bridge to understanding. When children read with accuracy, rhythm, and expression, their comprehension blossoms—opening doors to imagination, knowledge, and lifelong learning.

This session reignited my purpose: to build strong, joyful readers from the very beginning—one sound, one letter, one story at a time. 🌟📚✨

PIBBA Guam to Host Liberation Day Story Time - July 19

Join us for the PIBBA Guam Liberation Day Story Time on July 19, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Hagatna Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/pibba_guam_story_time We look forward to seeing you there! 📚🇺🇸🇬🇺🎉

Building Community and Achievement with Cooperative Learning

Cooperative Learning in the Classroom participants during the Summer Teacher Academy - July 8-11, 2025

The cooperative learning training presented by Elle Rayphand was terrific because it provided a clear, research-based framework—the PIES model (Positive Interdependence, Individual Accountability, Equal Participation, and Simultaneous Interaction)—that goes far beyond simply grouping students together. 

This approach not only boosts academic achievement by increasing engagement and retention, but also supports students’ social-emotional development by fostering empathy, confidence, and a sense of belonging. I plan to apply strategies like Talking Chips to ensure every student has a voice and to build a stronger classroom community, and I will be more deliberate in my lesson planning to maximize participation and learning. Ultimately, the training supports my goal of creating a more inclusive, student-centered classroom and equips me to share these impactful strategies with colleagues for broader professional growth.

Understanding NGSS: Elementary is Essential

The "Understanding NGSS: Elementary is Essential" course, taught by Dr. Jay Sunga at the Summer Teacher Academy, was truly meaningful. Among the key takeaways I gained are the following:

1. Phenomena-based learning is essential.
   Lessons should begin with observable, culturally relevant phenomena to spark curiosity and anchor student understanding.
2. Science is a process, not a product.
   NGSS emphasizes the importance of students engaging in the full cycle of inquiry—from questioning and modeling to interpreting and communicating data.
3. Three-dimensional learning is key.
   Effective science instruction integrates Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs), Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs), and Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) to build deep understanding.

There is no doubt that with the implementation of NGSS, students will benefit academically through deeper conceptual understanding and improved critical thinking skills. Socially and emotionally, engaging in collaborative inquiry and real-world problem-solving can boost their confidence, sense of purpose, and ownership of learning. This approach also supports diverse learners by providing multiple entry points and various ways to demonstrate understanding.

Image Source: https://www.marine-ed.org/news/how-can-we-incorporate-ocean-literacy-into-our-ngss-aligned-instruction

Building Strong Foundations: Literacy Across the Curriculum (K–2)

Literacy Across the Curriculum: The Science of Reading K–2 class during the Summer Teacher Academy

Master of Education in Reading Graduates participate in the Summer Teacher Academy

The Summer Teacher Academy class, "Literacy Across the Curriculum: The Science of Reading K–2," was both meaningful and insightful. Facilitated by Tricia Cruz Noket and Pearl Yonamine-Tsuda, the course focused on several essential points. The Science of Reading is grounded in multidisciplinary research that explains how students learn to read and why some struggle. It emphasizes that foundational reading skills—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—must be taught explicitly, systematically, and intentionally. Strategies such as Word Bust, Elkonin Boxes, and the strategic use of Read-Alouds were highlighted as effective tools for supporting literacy across all content areas.

There's no doubt that I plan to integrate Read-Alouds purposefully into my daily instruction, selecting vocabulary-rich texts and facilitating open-ended discussions to deepen comprehension. This professional development supports my goal of becoming a more intentional, research-driven educator who provides equitable literacy instruction. It equips me to better serve diverse learners through targeted, high-impact practices that address both foundational skills and language comprehension.

Lastly, it was a pleasure to see my Master of Education in Reading graduate students participating with such enthusiasm and a continued zest for learning through opportunities like this class. It was truly delightful to witness their connection to the concepts being introduced. In particular, Pearl, a graduate of our program, is clearly applying what she has learned to make a positive impact on other educators—and ultimately, on the young children of Guam. Way to go, team!

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Independence Day Story Time - July 5, 2025

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Independence Story Time on July 5, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Hagatna Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁📚🇺🇸🚤🎉

Empowering Through Purpose: Lessons in Authentic Leadership and Transformative Education

 

It was truly wonderful to attend the Summer Teacher Academy this past week. In their literacy intervention class, Dr. Laura Souder and Dr. Sam Betances (center) reminded us that true empowerment begins with authenticity, clarity, and purpose. Their insights inspire educators to foster transparent communication, cultivate strong study habits, and build meaningful connections that elevate every learner. Through their powerful examples, we are called to lead with intention and create transformative spaces where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Biba Ha’ånen Tåta!

Biba Ha’ånen Tåta❣️🌴 Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing fathers out there. I especially dedicate this poem to my Tåta:

Tåta

Tåta…

My love for you stretches beyond what words can hold—  

For all that you are,  

And all that you do,  

Your steady hands shaping our world,  

Your sacrifices quietly building our tomorrows.

In your stern yet gentle ways,  

You plant in us the seeds of strength—  

Teaching us to rise, to persevere,  

To chase our dreams beyond the horizon,  

And to never surrender in the face of challenge.

So, Tåta,  

Know that your care echoes in my heart,  

And I carry your lessons wherever I go.  

Hu guaiya hao—more deeply than words can express.

(c)mnrivera

 

AUXOP Milestone: A Commitment to Service and Learning

AUXOP Qualification

I am deeply honored to receive the AUXOP qualification from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. This milestone reflects a commitment to continued learning and service. I remain dedicated to supporting our mission and assisting others through education, leadership, and teamwork. Semper Paratus!

Ginen i Hila Membership Drive - June 11

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Summer Saturday Story Time - June 7, 2025

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Summer Saturday Story Time on June 7, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Hagatna Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚☀️🚤😎

Let us remember...

On this Memorial Day, let us remember all those soldiers, sailors, airmen, coasties, and Marines, who sacrificed their lives, so that we may be safe from harm. They will always be remembered!

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs National Safe Boating Week Saturday Story Time - May 17, 2025

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs National Safe Boating Week Saturday Story Time on May 17, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Micronesia Mall.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚🚤

Lions Clubs International D204 Mother’s Day Saturday Story Time: A Celebration of Reading, Community, Joy, and the Power of Mothers

Families join in the Lions Clubs International D204 Mother's Day Saturday Story Time

Wishing you all a joyful and blessed weekend! 🙏🌺  Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ to our captivating Featured Readers: Dr. Julie Manglona Ulloa-Heath and Lalyn L. Selilog. A big, heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the D204 Lions Clubs Mother’s Day Saturday Story Time on May 3, 2025! 🌺📚🥰

Keep the love of reading alive, stay safe on the water, and have a beautiful and blessed Mother’s Day celebration! 🦁🙏🌺📚🥰🚤🎉

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Mother's Day Saturday Story Time - May 3, 2025

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Mother's Day Saturday Story Time on May 3, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Hagatna Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚🌸

Lions Clubs International D204 CHamoru Saturday Story Time – A Meaningful Celebration of Culture and Literacy!

Families join in the Lions Clubs International D204 CHamoru Saturday Story Time

Biba Mes CHamoru! 🌴🎉 Si Yu’os Ma’ase’ to our incredible Featured Readers/Presenters:  Master Storyteller Peter Robert Onedera, Martha Sudo, Avery Jan Santos Pinkney, Leonardo Tio Saladier, Kohen Ignacio, Mason Aguon, Frederick Daniel Alexander, and Phillip Watts.  Your heartfelt storytelling brought the CHamoru language and culture to life!  A BIG thank you also goes out to everyone who joined us for the D204 Lions Clubs CHamoru Saturday Story Time on March 1, 2025! Your enthusiasm and love for literacy make all the difference.

Let’s keep the spirit alive—keep reading, embrace our CHamoru heritage, and practice safe boating! Wishing you all a joyful and meaningful CHamoru Month! 🦁🌴📚🚤🤗🎉

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs CHamoru Saturday Story Time - March 1

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs CHamoru Saturday Story Time on March 1, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Hagatna Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚🌴

Lions Clubs International D204 Valentine’s Saturday Story Time Lovely!

Families join in the D204 Valentine's Story Time  ❤️

Happy Pre-Valentine’s Day! ❤️  Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ to our Featured Readers: Caliandra “Cali” Villaverde, Lion Lois Taitano Gumataotao, Lion Julie Garcia, Amaya Charfauros, Juliana Regine Alisasis Santos, and Liwanag Dominguez.  

We also extend a special thank you to Lion Senator Chris Barnett for his heartfelt message on the importance of family literacy.

A BIG thank you to everyone who joined us for our D204 Lions Clubs Valentine’s Saturday Story Time on February 1, 2025!

Keep reading, practice safe boating, and have a wonderful Valentine’s Day! ❤️🦁💞📚🚤🤗

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Pre-Valentine's Saturday Story Time - Feb. 1

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Valentine's Saturday Story Time on February 1, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Haganta Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚❤️

Lions International D204 Starts the New Year 2025 Saturday Story Time with a Blast!

🎉 Families join in the D204 New Year's Saturday Story Time 🎉

Biba Anu Nuebu! 🎉 Si Yu’os Ma’ase’ to all our Featured Readers:  Adeline Jean Holm, Juliana Regine Alisasis Santos, and Lion Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera.  A BIG thank you also goes out to those who joined us for our D204 Lions Clubs New Year’s Saturday Story Hour!  Keep reading, practice safe boating, and have a wonderful New Year 2025 filled with much love, joy, good health, peace, and happiness! !  🦁🎉📚🌠 😀

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs New Year's Saturday Story Time - Jan. 4

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs New Year's Saturday Story Time on January 4, 2025, via Zoom or in person at the Haganta Public Library.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚🎉

Meet the Diversity & Inclusion Directorate Members!

Diversity and Inclusion Directorate

Håfa Adai! Meet the incredible members of the Diversity & Inclusion Directorate! It was an absolute privilege to connect with my fellow Officers this morning. Together, we celebrate the strength of diversity, the power of inclusion, and the importance of total workforce optimization. BIBA, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION! 🌟

Filis Pasgua yan Biba Anu Nuebu! 🎄🎉

Filis Pasgua yan Biba Anu Nuebu!  Wishing you a blessed Christmas & New Year filled with love, joy, peace, and happiness! 🎄🙏😘🌴🎉 As we gather to celebrate this special season, let's remember the importance of kindness, togetherness, and gratitude. May your hearts be filled with peace and your homes with laughter. Here's to a wonderful New Year ahead, full of hope and new beginnings.😘🎉

It’s a Triple Birthday celebration! 🎂

It’s a Triple Birthday celebration! 🎂🥰 We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our amazing family and friends. Your love, support, and presence in our lives mean the world to us. From Jr., Dimitri, and myself, Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ for making our birthday even more memorable. Here's to more beautiful moments together❣️🎂🎉

D204 Lions Clubs Christmas Saturday Story Time Spreads Joy and Honors the Memory of Lion Felix San Nicolas Crisostomo 🙏🕯️❤️🎄🎁🎅

Families join in the D204 Lions Christmas Saturday Story Time

🎄🎁 Minagof Nochebuena! ~ Felis Pasgua! Maligayan Pasko! Merry Christmas! 🎄🎁  Si Yu’os Ma’ase’ to all our Featured Readers:  Lion Annie Kasper, Gemee-Lynn Layson Escuadra, Hailey Grace Arriola, Rowan Atienza, Aiden James Villagomez Reyes, Ian Reyes, and Ronna Jaravata.  This event is dedicated to the loving memory of Lion Felix San Nicolas Crisostomo, Guahan Isan Famagu'on Lions Club Member. 🙏🕯️❤️

A BIG thank you also goes out to those who joined us for our D204 Lions Clubs Christmas Saturday Story Time!  Keep reading, practice safe boating, and have a wonderful Christmas!  🦁🎄📚🚤🎁🎅🏻

24th ILA Community Book Fair - Dec. 14

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING:

ILA Community Book Fair - December 14, 2024

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

VENUE:  Agana Shopping Center

Biba Ha'ånen Mannå'i Grasia!

Biba Ha'ånen Mannå'i Grasia!  Happy Thanksgiving!  🦃 🍁 Enjoy this special holiday with your loved ones, and be sure to thank those who have touched your life and made a difference. May God bestow upon you abundant blessings on this day and always.  Si Yu'os Ma'ase'! 🦃 🍁

D204 Lions Clubs Christmas Saturday Story Time - Dec. 7

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Christmas Story Time on Saturday, December 7, 2024.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading. We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚🎄🎁😀

D204 Lions Clubs Thanksgiving Saturday Story Time Filled With Many Thanks! 🦃 🍁

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃  Si Yu’os Ma’ase’ to our Star Readers, Martha Sudo and Julie Reyes! A BIG thank you also goes out to everyone who joined us for our D204 Lions Clubs Thanksgiving Saturday Story Time on November 16, 2024. Keep reading, be grateful for your blessings, practice safe boating, and stay safe! 🦁📚🚤🦃🎉

Families join in the D204 Lions Thanksgiving Saturday Story Time

Happy Veterans Day! 🇺🇸🇬🇺

Biba Kumpleanos to my nenis!

 

Biba Kumpleanos to my three beautiful nenis, my incredible fall babies! 🌟 May God bless you always and guide you to live each day with joy and purpose. No matter how many years pass, you will forever be my precious nenis! Hu guiaya hao with all my heart! ❣️🎂🎶🎉🎈

ESL Literacy Empowerment through Storytelling II

 

D204 Lions Clubs October Fest Saturday Story Hour SPOOKTACULAR!

Happy Halloween! 🎃 Si Yu’os Ma’ase’ to our Star Readers:  Rose Marie Cruz Castro and Lion Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera.  A BIG thank you also goes out to those who joined us for our D204 Lions Clubs October Fest Saturday Story Time on October 5, 2024.  Keep reading, practice safe boating, and stay safe! 🦁📚🇬🇺🎃🎉

Families join in the D204 Lions October Fest Saturday Story Time

October Diversity Calendar Highlights

GUAM AND SAIPAN FLOTILLA PARTNERSHIP FEATURE:

October is a month filled with vibrant celebrations and important awareness days that remind us of our diverse world and the values we uphold. As we honor Indigenous People’s Day, we reflect on the rich cultures and traditions of Native communities, while National Train Your Brain Day invites us to explore our curiosity and learn something new every day. October 16 brings National Boss’s Day, a time to recognize the leaders who guide us, and on the 24th, we celebrate United Nations Day, honoring global cooperation and peace. We also embrace the sweetness of National Candy Corn Day and the spooky excitement of Halloween later in the month. October is the perfect time to promote Global Diversity Awareness Month and support important causes such as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. Join us for World Smile Day, where we spread joy and kindness, and don't forget to take part in the Guam Flotilla Social Diversity Gathering: Autumn Fest on October 8, 2024. Lastly, mark your calendars for the D204 Lions International October Fest Story Time Literacy Partnership at 10:00 a.m. on October 5, 2024, via Zoom!

LET US REMEMBER: 9/11

On September 11, we paid tribute to those who suffered from the 9/11 attacks on America. We will always remember those who lost their lives, those who sacrificed to help in any way they could, and the day that brought everyone from all walks of life, rich or poor, together as ONE! God Bless the families and friends of those we have lost, and the brave men and women who continue to fight for our freedom!

D204 Lions Clubs Community Saturday Story Time - Sept. 7

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Community Story Time on Saturday, September 7, 2024.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚😀

August Diversity Highlights

August is filled with special days and celebrations that remind us of the diversity and importance of different aspects of our lives. As we celebrate the US Coast Guard's Birthday and the first day of classes, we also honor Respect for Parents Day, showing appreciation for everything they do. Blogger Day and Farmworker Appreciation Day allow us to recognize those who share stories and work hard to bring food to our tables. Purple Heart Day honors the brave soldiers injured in service, while National Face Mask Day reminds us of the importance of health. International Youth Day celebrates the potential of young people, and World Breast Cancer Research Day highlights efforts to find a cure. World Humanitarian Day honors those who help others in need, and National Senior Citizens Day celebrates the wisdom of our elders. Slavery Remembrance Day helps us remember and learn from the past, while Women’s Equality Day marks the progress and struggles for women's rights. Individual Rights Day reminds us of the importance of our freedoms, and World Distance Learning Day highlights the power of education no matter where we are. Throughout National Heritage Week and National Wellness Month, we celebrate our diverse cultures and focus on our health. Family Fun Month and National Coconut Week encourage us to spend time with loved ones and enjoy delicious, healthy treats.  Remember to join us on August 3, 2024, as we kick off the beginning of the school year with the D204 Lions International Back-to-School Story Time Literacy Partnership! 

Lions Clubs International D204 Back-to-School Saturday Story Time A Success!

Welcome back to school! 🦁📚🍎✏️ Si Yu’os Ma’ase’ to our Featured Readers:  Lion Mae Mendiola & Lion Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera.  A BIG thank you also goes out to those who joined us for our D204 Lions Clubs Back-to-School Saturday Story Time on August 2, 2024.  Keep reading, practice safe boating, and have a wonderful school year!   🦁 📚🦁📚🍎✏️🚤

Families join in the D204 Lions International Back-to-School Saturday Story Time

D204 Lions Clubs Back-to-School Saturday Story Time - Aug. 3

Join us for the D204 Lions Clubs Back-to-School Story Time on Saturday, August 3, 2024.  Register at https://bit.ly/lionsclubreading We look forward to seeing you there! 🦁 📚✏️😀

Happy 80th Liberation Day!

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