CPR for Chuuk Public Schools

Leger, Arthur; Hezel, Francis X. (2008-01-19). [www.micsem.org CPR for Chuuk Public Schools]. Micronesian Counselor (Report). Kolonia, Pohnpei: Micronesian Seminar. pp. 1–8.

• Has attachment: File:8ZAFRGNH.pdf

Abstract: It is no secret that the Chuuk Improvements in school infrastructure (01 Example) State School System (CSSS) is in dire need of substantial change. Most stories about principals in Chuuk are riddled with tales about how they blame everyone for the failures, except themselves; myths about the causes and solutions of the problems, jokes about the excuses they give for their incompetence, rumors about their involvement in dishonest practices, and whispers about them being ghosts.

In the last ten years all stakeholders in the CSSS have been challenged to propose new ideas and talk research and theory to improve student learning. There have been numerous attempts by many people to address this challenge, but there has been no considerable improvement. The CSSS narrative tells of a bleak situation with declining test scores, the high number of uncertified teachers and administrators, the deteriorating facilities, and a politicized Board of Education. The depressing storyline is repeated in the other sectors of the State of Chuuk.

This paper is about lessons learnt from the 2007 Chuuk Principal’s Retreat (CPR). The story of the CPR begins in 2002 during the 50th anniversary of Xavier High School. At this celebration a 1963 alumnus, Asterio Takesy challenged Fr. Jim Croghan, the Director of Xavier on how the Jesuits could directly help Chuuk State where the school had been located for the last 50 years. This challenge was transferred to me when I assumed responsibility as Director in 2004. The CPR was a collaborative effort by several people from the College of Micronesia, the Department of Education, and Xavier High School....