The group, FundRightCNMI, is made up primarily of high school students and organized the peaceful protest to raise awareness about the impact of reduced funding on education across the Northern Mariana Islands. Students also met with several lawmakers to share their concerns directly.
PSS had requested $49.285 million to operate its 20 campuses, which serve over 8,000 students and employ more than 1,000 staff across Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
However, the House of Representatives recently approved $31.7 million—nearly $18 million short of the requested amount.
In a series of recent town hall meetings, PSS officials warned that if the budget remains unchanged, the system may declare a state of emergency. Proposed measures include reducing instructional days from 180 to 150 and canceling all Monday classes and staff work starting Oct. 1.
Savan Rithwong, a freshman at Marianas High School, urged others to take part in the movement. “Please come join the protest,” she said, “to fight for your rights and your children’s education.”
FundRightCNMI plans to hold another demonstration Tuesday, following a scheduled Senate hearing.
