Speaking to the Rotary Club of Saipan last week, Mental Health Program coordinator Walter Mendez said students today face “sensory overload” and “information overload” as constant connectivity adds pressure to already stressed campuses.
Mendez and Counseling Program manager Paulette Tomokane outlined districtwide efforts to build resilience, teach conflict resolution, and strengthen social‑emotional skills across all 20 public schools. They said PSS is shifting away from punitive discipline and toward early intervention and skill‑building.
The district has adopted the PREPARE crisis‑response model and implemented consistent social‑emotional learning programs—Positive Action in elementary schools and Character Strong in middle and high schools. Counselors also use research‑based programs on healthy relationships and conflict management, and staff receive suicide‑prevention training through QPR and ASIST.
PSS has also launched Sources of Strength, which trains students as peer mediators and support leaders.
Officials said social media has become a complicating factor, with cyberbullying and conflicts continuing after school hours. PSS’ technology office and school counselors now provide outreach on healthy device use, screen‑time management, and digital behavior. Outreach to families is expanding as parents seek help navigating their children’s online habits.
