Guam CEDDERS Newsletter

September 27, 2019

Volume 21, Issue 4

GDOE Continues Road Map 

for Improving Reading Achievement


In this issue:

GDOEÕs Improving Reading Achievement ..........1-2

Guam EHDI Activities.......................................3-5

EPIC Scholars Complete Externship ..................6-7

Palau Updates State-Wide Guidelines ..............8-9

GEIS Professional Development Training......10-11

Guam Early Learning CouncilÕs First Meeting......12

AUCD Leadership Academy...............................13

GSAT Activities.................................................14

Project Bisita Staff PD Day................................15

OSEP Leadership Conference Poster Session ......16

CNMI Early Intervention Engage in PD...............16

CSEFEL Parent Training.....................................17

Deaf Awareness/Akudi Ads...............................18

Products Developed This Quarter......................19

Guam CEDDERS ...............................................19

Welcomes New Staff........................................19

CALENDAR OF EVENTS.......................................20

Chief Brodie Memorial Elementary School 1st grade teachers practice administering the aimswebPlus Early Literacy 
measures.


The Guam Department of Education (GDOE) continues its commitment to the 
road map for improving reading achievement through the implementation of the 
State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) in four elementary schools: Chief Brodie, 
JM Guerrero, MU Lujan, and Capt. H.B. Price. Deliberate support to the four SSIP 
elementary schools, considered small scale implementation, allows GDOE to assess 
effectiveness and implementation capacity to sustain and scale-up the SSIP framework. 
The SSIP framework includes district and school-level professional development 
in the implementation of coherent improvement strategies for improving reading 
achievement of all elementary school learners.

With support from GDOE Division of Special Education, Guam CEDDERS facilitated 
the first professional development session of the new school year with the four 
SSIP elementary schools. On August 12, over 150 school personnel from the SSIP 
elementary schools engaged in the all-day training held at the Westin. The priority for 
the training was to review, with guided practice, the procedures for administering the 
districtÕs new reading screener, aimswebPlus, a benchmark and progress monitoring 


UNIVERSITY OF GUAM

 Center for Excellence in

Developmental Disabilities

Education, Research, and Service

(Related photos on page 2)



tool that is administered online and assesses student skills in 
Early Literacy, Reading, Early numeracy, and Math foundational 
skills. aimswebPlus is a comprehensive system for identifying 
learning gaps, at-risk students, and assessing individual and 
classroom growth. 

Guam CEDDERS Josephine Cruz with consultants Nieves 
Flores and June Quitugua, and the school-level aimswebPlus 
trainers Kasaundra Penaflor, Dawn Perez, Bianca Nguyen, Leilani 
Perez, Kim Barrett-Pendon, Miami Hayes, Annette Raguindin, 
Gina Call, and Maria Noceda facilitated the training activities 
to increase the knowledge and skills of school personnel in the 
administration, scoring, and navigation of aimswebPlus. It is 
anticipated that the first administration of the aimswebPlus 
for the four SSIP elementary schools will begin at the end of 
September 2019.

GDOE Continues Road Map for 

Improving Reading Achievement (cont.)


(L-R) M.U. Lujan Elementary School First Grade Teachers Bertha Torres and Ursula 
Umadhay observe fellow colleagues as they practice administering the aimwebPlus.


Capt. H.B. Price Elementary School First Grade Teacher and aimwebPlus Trainer Leilani Mesa (standing) assists participants in using the aimswebPlus assessment system.


J.M. Guerrero Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher and aimswebPlus Trainer Kasuandra Penaflor (standing) guides participants as they practice navigating the 
aimswebPlus online portal.



Guam EHDI Presents at WIC


On August 2, Guam CEDDERS staff presented information about the importance of newborn hearing screening and child developmental milestones for parents present at 
the Breastfeeding Promotion held at the Northern Regional Community Health Center, Dededo for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. Pictured Left to Right: 
Marie Wusstig, Training Associate and Jenika Ballesta, Research Associate.

 Guam EHDI Meets with GPPT on Future Training Activities


On August 2, GuamÕs Positive Parents Together (GPPT) Board President Ann Marie Cruz (left) and GPPT Parent Mentor Evelyn Topasna (right) met with Marie Wusstig (center), 
Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, to discuss the facilitation of training opportunities for families to develop their self-advocacy skills, the recruitment of potential deaf 
mentors, planning for The CARE Project Family Retreat, and social activities for families of children identified with a hearing loss.



Guam EHDI and GPPT Participate in GFT Health Fair


On August 10, Jenika Ballesta (seated), Guam CEDDERS Research Associate, and Tanya Simer (right), Guam CEDDERS, Research Associate provided information about the 
importance of newborn hearing screening, developmental milestones, and other resources for persons with disabilities to a parent during the Guam Federation of TeachersÕ 
(GFT) 6th Annual Health Fair at the Guam Premium Outlet. Not pictured Bobbie Afjelle, Guam Positive Parents Together Inc. (GPPT) Project Fitme Support Staff, provided 
information on the parent support group available for families of children identified with a hearing loss. 


Guam EHDI Participates in Breastfeeding Awareness Fair

On August 24, Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) and GuamÕs Positive Parents Together (GPPT), participated in the 6th Annual 
Breastfeeding Awareness Fair at the Micronesia Mall Center Court. Guam EHDI and GPPT shared information about the importance of initial newborn hearing 
screening, resources available to track and monitor a childÕs development, and the availability of the GPPT/Project Fitme Parent Support Group to provide 
emotional support and training opportunities to empower families to become advocates for their child identified with a hearing loss. (Pictured L-R) Bernadine 
Reyes, Guam CEDDERS Office Assistant, and Bobbie Aflleje, GPPT Support Staff. Not pictured: Marie Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate.



Guam EHDI Advisory Council Holds Annual Meeting


On August 20, Guam EHDI Advisory Committee held its annual meeting at the Guam Lotte Hotel. Council members from Department of Public Health & Social Services 
(DPHSS), Guam Department of Education (GDOE), GuamÕs Positive Parents Together (GPPT), Guam Memorial Hospital (GMH), parents and siblings of children identified with 
a hearing loss, and Guam EHDI staff discussed and collaborated on various issues to improve early hearing detection and intervention processes for young children in our 
community.

On August 20, at the Guam Lotte Hotel, Guam Positive Parents Together (GPPT) parents and staff (Clockwise Ð Tricia Suzuki, Joyce Tejeresas, Julia Flores, and Barbara Aflleje) 
tune in as updates on the annual results and outcomes of the EHDI goals and objectives were provided by Guam EHDI staff members. 



First Group of EPICS Complete Externship in San JosŽ 

Nine Guam-based EPICS scholars completed their externship at various sites in the San JosŽ, California area. A second cohort 
of 10 scholars will be placed in an externship in the same area next summer. In addition, on August 3, three scholars from the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) completed practicum placements in Guam as part of the requirements of 
their graduate program in speech language pathology at San JosŽ State University.


EPICS Scholars John Payne, Lilly Reyes, and Lisa Eclavea were placed at the Learn Speech Therapy Clinic in Gilroy, California. Shown with their Externship Supervisors are (L-R): 
John Payne; Lily Reyes; Dawn Hansen, CCC-SLP; Lisa Eclavea; and Lynzy Melzer, CCC-SLP.


Aileen Serrano, EPICS Scholar, (left) is shown here with Uduak Osom (right), CCC-SLP, 
Externship Supervisor, at the Innovative Therapy Services Clinic in Santa Clara, CA.

Jasmin Advani, EPICS Scholar, recently completed her externship at the Rite Care 
Childhood Language Center in San JosŽ, California as part of the EPICS Project 
requirements. Shown in this photo are (L-R): Rachel Sense, CCC-SLP, and Karen 
Wong, CCC-SLP, Externship Practicum Supervisors, and Jasmin Advani. 



First Group of EPICS Complete Externship in San JosŽ (cont.)


On July 8, (L-R) Ignacio dela Cruz, Tricia 
Taitano, and Kathy Ruszala, CNMI Scholars, 
were in Guam to complete practicum 
placements in the Guam Department of 
Education Extended School Year Program. 
They also earned practicum hours at Guam 
Regional Medical City and Guam Memorial 
Hospital Authority.


Guam EPICS Scholars who completed their externships in San Jose, California were treated to a farewell luncheon by the SJSU professors. The externships began 
June 10 and ended August 2. Attending the event were (Seated L-R): Dr. Carol Zepecki, Scholars Aileen Serrano, Bobbie Obillo, John Payne, Lisa Eclavea, Jasmin 
Advani, and Lilly Reyes. Standing (L-R): Dr. Jean Jackson, Dr. Donald Weddington, Gary Cramptoni, and Dr. Gloria Weddington. Scholars not shown: Dianne 
Sapido, Cassandra Dimla, and Christina Coles.


Bobbie Obillo, (left) Guam EPICS Scholar, poses with Joy Festa, MS, CCC-SLP, 
(right) her externship supervisor. Bobbie started her externship on June 10 
at Joy Opens Doors, a private speech services clinic which specializes in early 
intervention in San JosŽ, California.

Cassandra Dimla, EPICS Scholar, (right) completed externship at the Integrated 
Integrated Intervention for Children with Autism Clinic in San JosŽ, CA. Standing 
at the left is Tayler Kina, CCC-SLP, her Externship Supervisor.



Palau Updates State-Wide Assessment Guidelines

Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, Josephine Cruz, and Guam CEDDERS consultant June Quitugua, provided on-site working 
sessions with the Ministry of Education (MOE) in Palau centered on updating the guidelines for the use of state-wide and alternate 
assessments with students with disabilities. The sessions were held from July 10-12 at the Special Education office in Koror, Palau. 
Twenty-four participants comprised of Special Education teachers, General Education teachers, principals, curriculum specialists, as 
well as the MOEÕs Chief of the Division of Research & Evaluation, Wilhelm Rechelluul, attended the 3-day sessions.

(Related photos on page 9)


Front L-R: Tsungiko Renguul, Special Education teacher; Jocelyn Maldangesang, Special Education Specialist; Hilda Kenzio, English Specialist; Larry Rdiall, Special Education 
teacher; Sarah Rubario, Special Education teacher; Yvonne Ruluked, General Education teacher; Cheryl Adachi, General Education teacher; Mayleen Ngiriou, Principal, Koror 
Elementary School (KES); Middle L-R: Wilhelm Rechelluul, Chief, Division of Reseach & Evaluation; Nora Renguul, Special Education Coordinator; Josephine Cruz, Guam 
CEDDERS Training Associate; Gwendolyn Rengiil, Special Education Specialist; Bruce Melairei, General Education teacher; Lyliza Madris, Assessment Specialist Back L-R: 
Wicliff Emul, Principal, GBH; Lucia Tebelual, Principal, MES; Symth Rdang, Principal, PHS; Atanacia Ubedei, KES Special Education teacher; Hadson Ngirakesau, General 
Education teacher; Clarinda Worswick, General Education Teacher; Hadleen Medalarak, Math Specialist. Not pictured: June Quitugua,Guam CEDDERS consultant.



Palau Updates State-Wide Assessment Guidelines (cont.)


Participants in training from L-R: Gwendolyn Rengiil, Special Education Specialist; Clarinda Worswick, GBH General Education Teacher; Tsungkiko Renguul, Meyuns 
Elementary School (MES) Special Education teacher; and Nora Renguul, Special Education Coordinator.


Participants are hard at work reading an article. Seated, front L-R: Symth Rdang, Principal-Palau High School (PHS); Jocelyn Maldangesang, Special Education Specialist; 
Seated, back L-R: Hadson Ngirakesau, PHS General Education teacher; Wicliff Emul, Principal, George B. Harris Elementary School (GBH), and Virginia Kuterbis, GBH Special 
Education teacher.



GEIS Conducts Professional Development

Elaine Eclavea, Guam CEDDERS Early Childhood Consultant, conducted the Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS) State 
Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) and Professional Development Training to GEIS staff on August 16. Service Providers and Service 
Coordinators participated in the full-day training which focused on the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plans, Evidence-
Based Practices, and Early Childhood Coaching.


Guam CEDDERS Early Childhood Consultant Elaine Eclavea (standing) interacts with the GEIS service coordinators and providers during the Early Childhood Coaching 
portion of the training.


Sherry Cruz (standing), GEIS service provider, shares progress updates on the implementation plan with the rest of the GEIS service delivery team.



GEIS Conducts Professional Development (cont.)


GEIS service coordinators and providers participated in the full-day training which focused on the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Plans, Evidence-Based 
Practices, and Early Childhood Coaching. 


GEIS service coordinators and providers review suggestions written during an activity during a full-day training which focused on the Continuous Ouality Improvement 
(CQI) Plans, Evidence-Based Practices, and Early Childhood Coaching.

Guam CEDDERS Early Childhood Consultant Elaine Eclavea (right) reviews a handout with Mike Cepeda (left), GEIS service coordinator, during the Early Childhood 
Coaching portion of the training.



Guam Early Learning Council Convenes First Meeting


On September 4, the Guam Early Learning Council convened 
its first meeting under the new administration with Co-
Chairperson Elaine Eclavea at the helm. New council members 
were provided with orientation in the development of the 
council and the timeline of early childhood initiatives on Guam. 
Early Childhood Program Administrators provided an overview 
of their respective programs as well as updates on services 
provided to families over the last eight months. Workgroup 
facilitators also reported on the status of the goals and activities 
for their focus areas as related to the Guam Early Childhood 
State Plan, which was last published in 2015. The next quarterly 
meeting will take place in December. Workgroup members 
spent the afternoon participating in the Karinu/Guam LAUNCH 
Early Childhood Evaluation Forum.

Members reviewed the progress of activities over the past year 
as well as data from the Wilder Survey used for Guam LAUNCH 
Evaluation reports and learned about the latest research in the 
Early Childhood field. Commitments on next steps and meeting 
dates were made to ensure that activities will continue.

Bonnie Brandt (standing), Guam CEDDERS Training Associate and Karinu/Guam 
LAUNCH Lead Evaluator, reviewed data from results of the Wilder Survey as 
workgroup participants looked on. 


Members of the Guam Early Learning Council Family Engagement Workgroup 

(FEW) showed their great collaborative skills as they erected a structure made from 
uncooked spaghetti noodles, rope, tape, and a marshmallow during the afternoon 
session. The FEW members built the tallest structure in the room at 20.25 inches.

Elaine Eclavea (standing), Guam CEDDERS Early Childhood Consultant and Guam 
Early Learning Council Co-Chairperson, reviewed a new grant opportunity with 
council members.

On September 4, Guam Early Learning Council Workgroup Members posed for a photo at the end of the Karinu/Guam LAUNCH Early Childhood Evaluation Forum held at 
the Outrigger Guam Resort. 



AUCD Leadership Academy Shapes the Future of Disability

Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, Josephine Cruz, was one 
of 24 participants selected from across the nation to attend 
the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) 
Leadership Academy. The AUCD Leadership Academy was held 
at Georgia State University from June 23 through June 29. The 
goal of the Academy was to cultivate 21st century leaders for 
the disability movement through a focus on strengths-based 
and authentic leadership that promotes collective impact. The 
Courage and Renewal principles and practices were used as a 
framework for the training. Participants had the opportunity to 
tour the National Center on Civil and Human Rights and to meet 
disability self-advocates who are at the forefront of the national 
disability movement. Advocates included Liz Weintraub, You-Tube 
star of Tuesdays with Liz: Disability Policy For All; and Jeiri Flores, 
Self-Advocacy Discipline Coordinator. In addition, participants 
were able to network and share leadership challenges with 
other leaders in the disability movement in their allied groups. 
The Academy provided valuable learning experiences that 
will facilitate and sustain the leadership at Guam CEDDERS. 


(L-R) Liz Weintraub, AUCD Senior Advocacy Specialist and You-Tube star; Josephine 
Cruz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate.


(L-R) Dr. Valerie William, Director, Center for Learning and Leadership University of 
Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Dr. Daniel Crimmins, Director, Center for Leadership 
in Disability; Josephine Cruz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate; Andrew Imparto, JD, 
Executive Director, Association of University Centers on Disabilities.

AUCD faculty prepare for training. (L-R) Matthew Williams, Vice President of 
Strategic Initiatives, Forum for Theological Exploration; Mark Crenshaw, MTS, 
Director of Interdisciplinary Training, Center for Leadership Disability.

AUCD Leadership Academy trainees, faculty, and guest speakers pose for a group photo after touring the National Center on Civil and Human Rights.



GSAT Engages in Outreach Activities


On August 27, Shawni Acfalle (standing), Guam System for Assistive Technology 
(GSAT) Center Assistant demonstrates the first Braille and tactile smartwatch 
called the Dot Watch to Rodney Calimlim (seated), an individual who is blind. The 
smartwatch synchronizes to your smartphone and displays caller, text messages, 
appointments, or notifications from various apps on your smartphone. The Dot 
Watch is now available for demonstration and individuals can contact the GSAT 
Office at 735-2490 for an appointment.

On August 27, The Guam State Rehabilitation (SRC) Outreach Committee held 
their work session to discuss about the Customer Satisfaction Surveys that will 
be going out to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Clients. In attendance 
were: (Standing L-R) Lourdes Ann Mesa, SRC Chairperson; Leah Abelon, Outreach 
Committee Chairperson; Tim Murphy, Member; Seated (L-R) Brittney Cruz, Member; 
and Rodney Calimlim.


On August 24, GSAT participated in the 6th Annual Breast Feeding Awareness Fair 
at the Micronesia Mall Center Court. GSAT shared information on various assistive 
technology available to assist children with communication and limited fine and 
gross motor skills. (Pictured L-R) Shawni Acfalle, GSAT AT Center Assistant; and Leah 
Abelon, Guam CEDDERS, Research Associate.

On August 10, Leah Abelon (right), GSAT Center Coordinator, and Tanya Simer 
(left), Guam CEDDERS Research Associate, demonstrate the features of the various 
Assistive Technology devices to Mara Wusstig, Teacher at the Guam Department of 
Education, during the Annual Guam Federation of TeachersÕ Health Fair at the Guam 
Premier Outlets.



Project Bisita Staff Facilitates Professional Development Day

On June 21, staff from the Department of Public Health 
and Social Services - Project Bisita I Familia participated in 
professional development activities during a full-day session 
facilitated by Vera Blaz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, 
and Jenika Ballesta, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate, at the 
Dusit Thani Resort. Staff members learned the ways in which 
their personalities translate to how they conduct their tasks, 
the process of collaboration using the Marshmallow Challenge, 
and participated in other activities that will help home visitors 
and administrative staff prevent burnout and practice good 
self-care routines.



GDOE Participates in OSEP Leadership Conference Poster Session 

The Guam Department of Education (GDOE) in partnership with Guam CEDDERS participated in the poster session at the Office 
of Special Education Program (OSEP) Leadership Conference on July 22 in Washington, D.C. The title of the poster was ÒIt Happens 
in the School Building.Ó The poster centered on the continuous improvement efforts of the four State Systemic Improvement Plan 
(SSIP) target schools as they work on increasing the reading achievement of elementary students, specifically those students with 
disabilities.


From L-R ront row: June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS Associate Director; Yolanda Gabriel, GDOE Assistant Superintendent Division of Special Education; Terese Crisostomo, 
GDOE School Program Consultant; Josephine Cruz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate; Natasha Dela Cruz, Principal, M.U. Lujan Elementary; Melissa Mafnas, Principal, J.M. 
Guerrero Elementary School; Laura Taisipic, GDOE School Program Consultant. From L-R Back row: Dennis Bakker, GDOE Division of Special Education Data Manager; and 
Charlie Kniseley, OSEP State Lead.

CNMI Early Intervention Engages in Professional Development 


On August 28 & 29, Elaine Eclavea (standing), 
Guam CEDDERS Early Childhood Consultant 
along with Keith Villaluna (not pictured), 
Guam CEDDERS Data Specialist facilitated 
professional development trainings for the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 
Islands (CNMI) Public School System IDEA 
Part C, Early Intervention Program staff in 
Saipan. The trainings focused on the CNMI 
Early Intervention Coaching Procedures 
called the LATTE, the Tiers of Intervention 
(TOI), and the Child Outcome Summary 
(COS) and Early Childhood Outcomes (ECO) 
data. 



CSEFEL Parent Training Focuses on Positive Solutions for Families

On August 5, the Manelu Micronesian Resource Center One Stop Shop (MRCOSS) staff in collaboration with Guam CEDDERS Kari–u/Guam LAUNCH Evaluation facilitated 
a session of the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL) Parent Pre-K Module, ÒPositive Solutions for FamiliesÓ with several Chuukese 
parents and family members.



September is
AWARENESSMONTH
DEAF
SEPT. 9 PROCLAMATION SIGNING 
10 AM GOVERNORÕS CONFERENCE ROOM, ADELUPSEPT. 13 DEAF AWARENESS WAVE 
4:30 PM PASEO LOOP, HAGATNASEPT. 15 COMMUNITY OUTREACH 
1PM - 4PM AGANA SHOPPING CENTERSEPT. 22 DEAF AWARENESS MASS 
8 AM OUR LADY OF PURIFICATION CHURCH, MAINASEPT. 25 DINNER FUNDRAISER 
THREE SQUARES, TAMUNINGFOR MORE INFORMATION:
TEL: 688-4YOU (4968)
EMAIL: projectfitmedhh@gmail.com
Tell us what 
you think 
about our 
website.

Please fill out the 
online survey at:

www.guamcedders.org



Products Developed This Quarter

CELEBRATING25
1994 - 2019SERVICEYEARS OF
June 2019Community Report 
SUSTAINABILITY 
government has made a substantial investment (i.e., $12,350,00) 
initiatives, one of which ended in 2016 and the current grant 
result, GuamÕs young children and their families now 
Care that promotes young child wellness, helps prevent 
provides interventions for children experiencing challenging 
the same time, ongoing systemic issues related to the 
procurement systems have had a negative impact on the 
federal dollars. These included extensive delays in hiring 
qualified individuals to be interviewed for positions, obstacles 
organizations, and the timely procurement of equipment 
has supported Kari–uÕs early childhood clinical services 
including delays in renewing personnel actions for two highly 
clinicians and challenges related to converting limited-term 
Moving forward, it is critical to ensure highly trained staff are 
important aspect of sustainability planning and, most urgent 
Kari–u continues to operate after its current federal five-year 
economics, estimates that the return on investment in early 
Early intervention promotes school success and completion, 
wellness; resulting in a healthier and more productive society. 
poverty and trauma are at risk for poor outcomes across 
that high numbers of GuamÕs young children are especially 
facing so many social problems and economic challenges, we 
compelling. He says, ÒThe real question is how to use available 
the policy prescription: Invest in the very young.Ó Investing 
future of our island community.
This report was prepared by the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service. Funded 
under grant number 1H79SM061559-04 REVISED from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HSS). The views, policies, and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily 
reflect those of SAMHSA or HSS. The University of Guam is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. 
ÒBeing in Kari–u is such a blessing for our family. All the support they give, they are awesome. IÕve 
gained another family and felt in a right group of people.Ó 
ÒThe most helpful thing they did was explained different ways on how to help our childÉhow to 
understand and handle our childÕs behavior.Ó
ÒBeing part of the services has given me confidence as a parent and family/householdÓ
GuamÕs Early Childhood System of CareWhat is Early Childhood Mental Health?
What Families Have Shared About Kari–uContact Kari–u at 478-5400www.karinu.org¥ The social emotional and behavioral well-being of infants, toddlers, young 
children and their families¥ The developing capacity to experience, regulate, and express emotions¥ The ability to form close, secure relationships¥ The capacity to explore the environment and learn 
-From Zero to Three Organization
Visit www.guamcedders.org to download products.

Guam CEDDERS 

Welcomes New Staff


University of Guam
Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS) Newsletter

Guam CEDDERS

Office of Graduate Studies,
Sponsored Programs, & Research

University of Guam
303 University Drive

Mangilao, Guam 96913

Phone: (671) 735.2480/1

Fax: (671) 734.5709

TTY: (671) 734.6531

Email: heidi.sannicolas@guamcedders.org

I Tellai is a quarterly publication of Guam CEDDERS.

Director: Heidi San Nicolas, Ph.D.

Editors: Michelle Aguigui, Vera Blaz, & June De Leon

Layout & Design: Jenika Ballesta

This issue of I Tellai was made possible by contributions from 
the following Guam CEDDERS staff members/consultant: Leah 
Abelon, Michelle Aguigui, Jenika Ballesta, Vera Blaz, Josephine 
Cruz, June De Leon, Terrie Fejarang, Tanya Simer, Keith 
Villaluna, and Marie Wusstig

Alternative formats (e.g. Braille or large print) of I Tellai will be 
made available upon request.

Please contact Jenika Ballesta at (671) 735.2477 (v), (671) 
735.6531 (TTY), or (671) 734.5709 (fax) for more information.

The University of Guam is an equal opportunity provider and employer

Michelle Aguigui

Associate Director

Michelle Aguigui joined Guam CEDDERS staff on August 
5th as the new Associate Director for Interdisciplinary Training, 
Operations, and Data/Dissemination. She is responsible for 
engaging in activities to enhance leadership and visibility of 
the center, and promotes its credibility in supporting exemplary 
services, research, raining, and dissemination of information 
with regard to disabilities and at-risk conditions. 

Michelle previously worked with the Guam Department of 
Education in various capacities, to include Principal/Assistant 
Principal, Compliance Officer, Transition Teacher, and General 
Ed Teacher for twenty three years. She has developed a deep 
passion assisting individuals with disabilities and their families. 
Working with Guam CEDDERS has allowed her to continue the 
opportunity to do amazing work of advocating for services for 
individuals with disabilities.

Michelle enjoys reading and traveling with her husband, 
Earl, and their two children, Ethan and Mia-Essabella.

Welcome aboard, Michelle!



CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sept 4: Guam Early Childhood Comprehensive System Annual Evaluation and Planning Forum, Outrigger Hotel, 8:00am-4:00pm

Sept 4: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 11:00am-12:00pm, M.U. Lujan Elementary School

Sept 6: CEDDERS Advisory Council Meeting, 9:30am-11:00am, GSAT House 19

Sept 9: Deaf Awareness Proclamation Signing, 10:00am, GovernorÕs Conference Room, Adeup

Sept 9: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 11:00am-12:00pm, M.U. Lujan Elementary School

Sept 9: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 1:45pm-2:30pm, Chief Brodie Memorial Elementary School

Sept 10: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 11:55am-12:55pm, Capt. H.B. Price Elementary School

Sept 11: GEIS/DOE Outpatient Hearing Screening Clinic, 8:00am-4:00pm, DOE Audiology Office Tiyan

Sept 11: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 11:18am-12:18pm, Capt. H.B. Price Elementary School

Sept 11: Guam LAUNCH Positive Solutions for Families Session 6, 9:00am-1:00pm, Dededo 

Sept 11: GSAT Presentation to JFK High School Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students, 7:45am-8:45am, John F Kennedy High School

Sept 12: Project Bisita CSEFEL Postive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Sept 12: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 12:00pm-1:15pm, Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School

Sept 13: School-Level Assessment Training Session, 10:15am-11:15am, Chief Brodie Memorial Elementary School

Sept 13: Developing Guides for the Implementation of the Special Education Handbook Meeting, 1:00pm-3:00pm, GDOE Tiyan

Sept 13: Deaf Awareness Wave, 4:30pm-5:30pm, Paseo Loop Hagatna

Sept 15: Deaf Awareness Community Outreach, 1:00pm-4:00pm, Agana Shopping Center

Sept 16-17: Guam Part B ÒThe IEP School TeamÓ with David Bateman & Jenifer Cline, 8:00am-3:30pm, Lotte Hotel

Sept 17: Social Work Practicum Model Home Tour, 9:30am-11:30am, House 20, Dean Circle UOG Mangilao

Sept 18-19: Guam Part B ÒThe IEP School TeamÓ with David Bateman & Jenifer Cline, 8:00am-3:30pm, Lotte Hotel

Sept 18: AT Presentation to Guam Community College American Sign Language Class, 10:30am-11:30am, Conference Room B, House 19 Dean Circle

Sept 18: AT Presentation to IN180-01 Ecology of Deafness Class, 12:00pm-1:30pm, Conference Room B, House 19 Dean Circle

Sept 19: Project Bisita Positive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Sept 19: AT Presentation to Guam Community College American Sign Language Class, 2:30pm-3:30pm, Conference Room B, House 19 Dean Circle

Sept 19: Guam State Rehabilitation Council General Membership Meeting, 9:30am-11:30am, GovernorÕs Large Cabinet Room, Adelup

Sept 20: Inarajan Senior Center Outreach, 10:00am-11:00am, Inarajan Senior Center

Sept 20: Yona & Talofofo Senior Center Outreach, 1:00pm-3:00pm, Yona Senior Center

Sept 22: Deaf Awareness Mass, 8:00am-9:00am, Our Lady of Purification Church Maina

Sept 23: Social Work 330 Class, 4:00pm-5:00pm, GSAT House 19&20 Dean Circle UOG Mangilao

Sept 24: Astumbo Senior Center Outreach, 11:00am-12:00pm, Astumbo Senior Center 

Sept 25: Deaf Awareness Dinner Fundraiser, 6:00pm-8:00pm, Three Squares Tamuning

Sept 25: Agana Heights Senior Center Outreach, 11:00am-12:00pm, Agana Heights Senior Center

Sept 26: Project Bisita Positive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Sept 26: Mangilao Senior Center Outreach, 1:00pm-2:00pm, Mangilao Senior Center

Sept 27: Developing Guides for the Implementation of the Special Education Handbook Meeting, 1:00pm-3:00pm, GDOE Tiyan

Sept 30: Project Bisita Parent Cafe, 8:00am-3:00pm, TBA

Oct 1: Agat Senior Center Outreach, 1:00pm-2:00pm, Agat Senior Center

Oct 2: Dededo Senior Center, 1:00pm-2:00pm, Dededo Senior Center

Oct 3: Merizo Senior Center Outreach, 11:00am-12:00pm, Merize Senior Center

Oct 3: Project Bisita Positive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Oct 4: Yigo Senior Center Outreach, 10:30am-11:30am, Yigo Senior Center

Oct 7-11: Pacific SSIP Collaborative ÒOur Journey for ImprovementÓ, 8:00am-3:30pm, The Westin Resort & GDOE Main Conference Room, Tiyan

Oct 8: GSAT Advisory Council Executive Meeting, 3:30pm-4:30pm, GSAT, House 19 Dean Circle 

Oct 9: NDEAM EmployerÕs Conference & Job Circle, 8:00am-4:00pm, Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort 

Oct 10: Project Bisita Positive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Oct 10: Santa Rita Center Outreach, 11:am-12:00pm, Santa Rita Center

Oct 12: Parent Training ÒSupporting Your Elementary ChildÕs Literacy Development at HomeÓ, 8:30am-11:30am, GDOE Main Conference Room, Tiyan

Oct 14: GEIS/DOE Outpatient Hearing Screening Clinic, 8:00am-4:00pm, DOE Audiology Office Tiyan

Oct 18: Project Bisita Parent Cafe, 8:00am-3:00pm, TBA

Oct 18: Tamuning Senior Center Outreach, 10:00am-2:00pm, Tamuning Senior Center

Oct 22: GSAT General Membership Meeting, 3:30pm-5:00pm, Conference Room B, House 19 Dean Circle

Oct 24: Project Bisita Positive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Nov 7: Project Bisita Positive Solutions for Families, 10:00am-2:00pm, TBA

Nov 8-10: The CARE Project Family Retreat, TBA

Nov 12: GEIS/DOE Outpatient Hearing Screening Clinic, 8:00am-4:00pm, DOE Audiology Office Tiyan

Nov 14: Project Bisita Child Abuse and Neglect, 8:00am-5:00pm, TBA

Sept-Nov

2019

Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service

For more information on any of these events, 

please call 735-2479 or visit www.guamcedders.org

This newsletter was produced with 100% funding support from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration on Intellectual and 
Developmental Disabilities, Grant No. 90DDUC0064-02-01 and facilitated by the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities 
Education, Research, and Service (Guam CEDDERS). This report is also available online and in alternate formats at www.guamcedders.org.

The University of Guam is an equal opportunity provider and employer.