Guam CEDDERS Newsletter

December 26, 2019

Volume 22, Issue 1



In this issue:

BIBA Dr. Heidi San Nicolas!...................................1-2

WeÕll Be Blue Without You.......................................2

 2019 AUCD Conference............................................3

Guam Congressman Meeting...................................3

GPPT & The CARE Project Supporting Families .......4-5

Program Completion for EPICS Scholars................6-7

Guam EHDI Activities...............................................8

GDOE Hosts ÒOur Pacific Journey for ImprovementÓ.9-12

GDOE Takes the Lead in ASD Assessment Training....13

ROP Works on Improving Services ..........................13

GDOE Provides School-Level Support for Assessments .14

GDOE Provides an Online Tool for Students with 

Reading Barriers...................................................15

GDOE Admin and Teachers Review MSAA Results.....15

CNMI Special Education Program Gathers Stakeholder 
Input...................................................................16

Senior Citizens Participate in Technology Demo......17

College Students Learn About GSAT Services...........18

Project Bisita Activities.........................................19

Guam CEDDERS Welcomes New Staff......................20

BIBA Dr. Heidi San Nicolas!

Guam CEDDERS Founding Director Retires

On September 30, (L-R) UOG President Thomas Krise and Senior Vice President Anita Enriquez presented a carved 
wooden plaque to Guam CEDDERS Founding Director Heidi San Nicolas.

On September 30, the University of Guam (UOG) recognized the greatest 
achievements of Heidi San Nicolas, Ph.D. After devoting more than three decades 
to GuamÕs island community serving within the Guam Department of Education 
and University of Guam, Dr. San Nicolas retired from government service. Of her 
numerous accomplishments, most notably, Dr. San Nicolas served as the founding 
Director of the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities 
Education, Research, and Service (Guam CEDDERS, formerly known as the Guam 
University Affiliated Program). She led this outreach unit of the University from a 
satellite University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) 
program of the University of Hawaii to full UCEDD funding in 1995 to the University of 
Guam through the Developmental Disabilities Bill of Rights and Assistance Act from 
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Through her leadership, Dr. San Nicolas leveraged funding in excess of 
$146,000,000 through dozens of federal grants and local/regional contracts and work 
requests to strengthen critical partnerships for improving the quality of programs 
and services for individuals with disabilities and their families. Dr. San Nicolas 
developed and nurtured Guam CEDDERS into a dynamic organization to continue 
its commitment to building bridges with partners to create strong linkages for 
crucial programs and services to support the overall quality of life of individuals with 
developmental disabilities and their families on Guam and throughout the Pacific 
region.

On November 25, the UOG Board of Regents passed Resolution 19-43 awarding 
Dr. San Nicolas Emeritus Professor and Emeritus Director status in recognition of her 
academic and outreach services at UOG.

Si YuÕos MaÕase Dr. San Nicolas for your leadership and outstanding service as one 
of the pioneers in the field of disabilities serving Guam and the Pacific.


UOG Recognizes Dr. San Nicolas


On September 30, Director Rachael Leon Guerrero (Left) and Grants Officier Janet 
Dirige of the Office of Research & Sponsored Programs presented a gift to Dr. Heidi 
San Nicolas on her retirement.

On September 30, UOG President Thomas Krise (Left) presented a President 
resolution to Dr. Heidi San Nicolas during her retirement ceremony.


On September 30, Senator Amanda Shelton presented a legislative resolution to Dr. 
Heidi San Nicolas to celebrate her accomplishments. 

On September 30, Guam CEDDERS Interim Director June De Leon (Left) and Guam 
CEDDERS Associate Director Michelle Aguigui (Right) presented Guam CEDDERS 
Founding Director Dr. Heidi San Nicolas with a retirement memento.

ÒWeÕll Be Blue Without YouÓ


On September 5, Guam CEDDERS staff took a team photo with the three September 2019 Guam CEDDERS retirees: Margie Johnson (Third from left), Dr. Heidi San Nicolas 
(Seated center), and Bonnie Brandt (Fifth from left). The staff wore shades of blue to let the retirees know, ÒWeÕll be BLUE without you, Margie, Heidi, and Bonnie.Ó



2019 AUCD Conference Engages Leaders to Lead Change

Over 1,100 people from around the United States and 
internationally participated in the 2019 Association of University 
Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) Conference in Washington D.C. 
from November 17th to November 21st, 2019. The theme, 
ÒLeading Change Together,Ó focused on how people with and 
without disabilities come together to celebrate the many ways 
to lead change as an organization that works with diverse 
communities and people through research, practices, and 
advocacy that impacts a broad spectrum of disabilities. The 
extensive pool of resources and knowledge in one setting ignited 
interesting discussions and generated ideas on how to implement 
new program services as well as to enhance existing services 
to better serve individuals with disabilities and their families. 

During the conference, AUCD also hosted a meeting with 
Julie Hocker, Administration on Disabilities Commissioner, 
who provided insights on the administrationÕs initiatives: 
increasing life expectancy of individuals with disabilities, health 
education, healthcare, and post-secondary transition services.

The AUCD is a membership organization that supports 
and promotes a national network of university-based 
interdisciplinary programs. Network members consist of 67 
University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities 
(UCEDD) receiving core funding from the Administration 
on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD); 43 
Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities 
(LEND) Programs receiving core funding from the Maternal and 
Child Health Bureau (MCHB); 15 Intellectual and Developmental 
Disability Research Centers (IDDRC), receiving core funding 
from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child 
Health and Development (NICHD). These programs serve 
and are located in every U.S. state and territory and are 
all part of universities or medical centers. They serve as a 
bridge between the university and the community, bringing 
together the resources of both to achieve meaningful change.


On November 21, AUCD facilitated a US Territories University Center for Excellence 
in Developmental Disabilities in Education, Research, & Service (UCEDD) DirectorsÕ 
meeting that was attended by UCEDD Directors and Staff Members from Guam, 
Puerto Rico, Saipan, and the US Virgin Islands. Pictured from the front row (L-
R) Carol Pagan, Puerto Rico UCEDD Director; Jennifer Castro, Saipan UCEDD 
Director; Kimberly Mills, Virgin Islands UCEDD Director; Pamela Sablan, Saipan 
Developmental Disabilities Center Director. Second row (L-R) Michelle Aguigui, 
Guam CEDDERS Associate Director; Shamika Thomas, Virgin Islands UCEDD 
Program Coordinator; Dawn Rudolph, AUCD Senior Director of Technical Assistance 
& Network Engagement; June DeLeon, Guam CEDDERS Interim Director; Tafa Tua-
Tupuola, American Samoa UCEDD Director.

On November 20, AUCD hosted a UCEDD DirectorÕs meeting with ACL Commissioner 
Julie Hocker. US TerritoriesÕ UCEDD Directors are pictured with the ACL Commissioner. 
(L-R) June DeLeon, Guam CEDDERS Interim Director; Jennifer Castro, Saipan UCEDD 
Director; Julie Hocker, ACL Commissioner; and Tafa Tua-Tupuola, American Samoa 
UCEDD Director.

Guam Congressman Meets with Guam CEDDERS Leaders

The ÒHafa Adai spiritÓ and gracious welcome from Guam 
Congressman Michael San Nicolas and his wife, Mrs. Kathy San 
Nicolas, could be felt in our nationÕs capital as CEDDERS Interim 
Director June De Leon and CEDDERS Associate Director Michelle 
Aguigui visited the Congressman in his office in Washington D.C. 
during the AUCD Hill visits on November 21th. Surrounded by 
the classical ambiance of the ÒTunnel Restaurant,Ó the afternoon 
was filled with networking and educating our Congressman 
on topics that were discussed during the 2019 AUCD Annual 
Conference, such as increasing life expectancy of individuals 
with disabilities, improving healthcare, and post-secondary 
education transition services. The Congressman also shared 
the various initiatives that he is working on to increase 
services for individuals with disabilities residing on Guam.


On November 21, CEDDERS visits Capitol Hill. (L-R): Michelle Aguigui, Guam 
CEDDERS Associate Director; Kathy San Nicolas, wife of Congressman; June De Leon, 
Guam CEDDERS Interim Director; and Michael San Nicolas, Guam Congressman.



GPPT & The CARE Project Supporting Families


GuamÕs Positive Parents Together Inc. (GPPT) the non-
profit, parent driven organization, facilitating the Deaf 
and Hard of Hearing (DHH) Parent Support Group 
for GuamÕs families with children identified with a 
hearing loss has had an exciting and busy September!

GPPT hit the ground running in September with a Deaf 
Awareness Proclamation signing at the GovernorÕs Conference 
Room on Monday, September 9. Present at the signing was 
Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero, Senator Kelly Marsh (Taitano), 
Ann Marie Cruz, GPPT Board President, Mary-Therese, GPPT 
Board Vice President, Evelyn Claros, GPPT Board Treasurer, 
Trisha Suzuki, Parent Mentor, Margarita Gay, DPHSS Nursing 
Administrator, Kirsten Rosario, GCC ASL Instructor, Terrie 
Fejarang, retired Guam CEDDERS Associate Director, Marie 
Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate along with numerous 
supporters present to witness the inaugural declaration 
of Deaf Awareness Month for the month of September.

Ann Marie Cruz and daughter Jescilla Cruz at the Proclamation signing with 
Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero.


Members of the Deaf Community enjoying themselves at the first Deaf Awareness Fundraising Dinner held on September 29, sponsored by GPPT. Proceeds raised will be used 
to assist families with children identified with a hearing loss.


On September 9, GuamÕs Positive Parents Together (GPPT) kicked off Deaf Awareness Month with a Proclamation Signing at the Adelup, GovernorÕs Conference Room. 
Various members of the community gathered as Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero signed the proclamation declaring September as Deaf Awareness Month. Present at the 
proclamation signing included Senator Kelly Marsh-Taitano, GPPT - Ann Marie Cruz, Mary-Therese Edgerle, Evelyn Claros, Barbara Aflleje, Ashley Babauta, Trisha Suzuki, 
DISID - Phyllis Leon Guerrero, GDDC - Jermaine Alerta, UOG CEDDERS - Marie Wusstig, Terrie Fejerang, Tanya Simer, DPHSS - Margarita Gay, GCC - Kirsten Rosario, GCC ASL 
Students and supporters of the DHH community.



As part of celebrating Deaf Awareness month, GPPT 
spearheaded activities to promote Deaf Awareness in 
the community with a WAVE at the Paseo Loop on Friday, 
September 13. On Sunday, September 15, members of the 
community were invited to participate in first Deaf Awareness 
Outreach held at the Agana Shopping Center. The group also 
organized a special Sunday Mass for members of the DHH 
Community and their families on September 22 at the Our Lady 
of Purification Church to celebrate Deaf Awareness Month.

GPPT also organized its first Deaf Awareness fundraising 
dinner. To bring awareness to the community of the issues 
that DHH families and their children face. Funds raised 
were identified to support DHH families with hearing aids 
and other necessities families require such as adequate 
health and educational resources for their DHH child.

GPPT continued to meet with Guam EHDI and The CARE Project 
of North Carolina, via Zoom to finalize plans for the first Guam 
CARE Project Family Retreat. In November, the collaborative 
efforts between Guam EHDI Ð Fitme Project , GPPT, and The 
CARE Project held its first Guam CARE Project Family Retreat on 
November 8 Ð 10. Members from North CarolinaÕs CARE Project, 
under the direction of Johnnie Sexton, Executive Director of 
The CARE Project, facilitated the three-day Family Retreat at the 
Lotte Hotel Guam. Day one was an informal meeting with the 
families to meet with the volunteers. The CARE Project Team, 
and Guam EHDI staff allowed for questions families may have 
regarding the retreat. On day two, the team presenting included 
Pediatric Audiologist John J. (JJ) Whicker, Director; Inspirational 
Speaker Katie Whicker; Parent Mentors Bo and Jessica Peterson 
and their sons; Oscar and Magnus. The families experienced a 
motivational seminar facilitated by Katie Whicker, a woman with 
Treacher Collins Syndrome , who also grew up with hearing loss. 
Parents engaged in a focus group facilitated by JJ Whicker, ÒThe 
Emotional Journey,Ó which allowed parents to share their stories 
related to their childrenÕs birth and diagnosis of deafness and 
hearing loss. This focus group allowed for the parents to openly 
express their grief in a safe space with individuals who understood 
and had shared experiences. In the afternoon, two families 
volunteered to be recorded and shared their stories to provide 
The CARE Project footage to share during future sensitivity 
trainings with hearing screeners and health care professionals. 
The rest of the afternoon was spent with the main focus group 
split into two smaller groups (mothers and fathers) to further 
openly discuss their experiences and challenges in a more 
private and intimate setting with parent mentors Bo and Jessica 
Peterson. Parents spent the final morning in two seminars led by 
JJ Whicker, ÒUnderstanding Your ChildÕs HearingÓ and ÒDisability 
Law: Knowing Your Rights and Advocating for Your Child.Ó 

GPPT & The CARE Project Supporting Families (cont.)


JJ Whicker, Pediatric Audiologist and volunteer with The CARE Project Family

Retreat Team provided families with an overview of ÒHow to Understand Your

ChildÕs Hearing Loss.


Dangkulu na si yuÕus maÕase to the families who participated in the three day retreat, The CARE Project Team, volunteers from GCCÕs ASL classes, AOLG Interact Group, and 
GDOEÔs Middle and Elementary School Teachers along with GPPT and Guam EHDI/CEDDERS for making the event a success for the parents and children!



Program Completion Quickly Approaching for EPICS Scholars


The light at the end of the tunnel is shining brightly 
for 18 scholars in the Educating Pacific Island Clinicians 
in Speech Pathology (EPICS) Project as they get closer 
to earning their graduate degree in Speech Language 
Pathology from San JosŽ State University (SJSU).

Now in the fifth and last year of the project, scholars have a very 
challenging workload that will only intensify as the final semester 
approaches. Scholars continue to take online classes and 
complete their practicum hours to meet course requirements 
for a MasterÕs degree in Speech-Language Pathology. In 
addition, scholars will be preparing to take their programÕs 
comprehensive examination on May 2, 2020 as well as taking 
the PRAXIS for Speech-Language Pathologists shortly after.

In June 2020, the second cohort of scholars will be spending 
about eight weeks in an externship in San JosŽ, California. 
Graduation will take place on Guam in August 2020.

The EPICS Project is supported by a personnel preparation grant 
from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education 
Programs, awarded to SJSU, in partnership with Guam CEDDERS. 

Erica Sgro, SLP-CCC (L), supervises Lisa Eclavea, EPICS Scholar (R), at Machananao 
Elementary School. 


Nicole Duenas, CCC-SLP, (Center) supervises EPICS Scholars Megan Merfalen (Left) 
at Wettengel Elementary and Joseph Mendiola (R) at J. M. Guerrero Elementary 
School. 

Lillian Reyes, EPICS Scholar (Right), is supervised by Bernice Cepeda, CCC-SLP (Left), at 
Agueda Johnston Middle School.


Cassandra Dimla, EPICS Scholar (L), earns her practicum hours under the supervision 
of Erica Sgro, CCC-SLP (R), at Maria Ulloa and Finegayan Elementary Schools.

Camille Onglao Gonzales, EPICS Scholar (Left), works with Elizabeth Blas, CCC-SLP 
(Right), in her Practicum site at the Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS).



EPICS Scholars (cont.)


Melanie Torres, CCC-SLP (Left), supervises Dianne Sapido, EPICS Scholar (Right), at 
D.L. Perez Elementary and Adacao Elementary School.

Liahlanni Cruz, EPICS Scholar (Left), works with Michelle Camacho, CCC-SLP (Right), 
at P.C. Lujan Elementary School. 


Meagan Terlaje, EPICS Scholar (Left), has her Practicum Placement at C.L. Taitano 
Elementary School, under the supervision of Terry Lujan, CCC-SLP (Right).

Christina Coles, EPICS Scholar (Left), works with Briana Schills, CCC-SLP (Right), in her 
Practicum site at Tamuning Elementary, LBJ Elementary, Chief Brodie Elementary, 
and Oceanview Middle School.


Rowena Dimla, CCC-SLP (Left), provides supervision for Aileen Serrano, EPICS scholar 
(Right), at Upi Elementary School.

Bobbie Obillo, EPICS Scholar (Left), is supervised by Melanie Torre, CCC-SLP (Right), 
at D.L. Perez Elementary School.



Guam EHDI Participates in the Power of Play Outreach


On November 16, Clarissa Leon Guerrero (Left), UOG Social Work Intern, is pictured 
helping two children who participated in the Pom Pom Drop activity for toddlers 
to develop their fine motor skills, coordination, and concentration at the Power of 
Play Outreach at Sinajana Community Center. Not pictured: Tanya Simer, Guam 
CEDDERS Research Associate. 

On November 23, Clarissa Leon Guerrero (Right), UOG Social Work Intern assisted 
a mother and her toddler with the Pom Pom Drop activity at the Power of Play 
Outreach held at Toto Gardens GHURA. Not pictured: Tanya Simer, Guam CEDDERS 
Research Associate.

Guam EHDI Participates in the DPHSS 

Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair


On November 24, Guam Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (EHDI) participated in the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) Healthy Mothers, 
Healthy Babies Fair held at the Agana Shopping Center. Information and resources were provided to attendees on the importance of early hearing screening, detection, and 
intervention. Pictured from left to right, Tanya Simer, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate; and Clarissa Leon Guerrero, UOG Social Work Intern.



GDOE Hosts ÒOur Pacific Journey for ImprovementÓ

The island value of living in a spirit of togetherness 
and belonging was obvious at the Pacific State Systemic 
Improvement Plan (SSIP) Collaborative, ÒOur Pacific Journey for 
Improvement,Ó as the six Pacific entities convened to focus on 
improving educational results of all students with disabilities 
in the Pacific. Not even the threat of a storm could dampen 
the spirit of community that was nurtured throughout the 
week-long activities. The event was held from October 7-10 
at the Westin Resort Guam and from October 11-12 at the 
Guam Department of Education (GDOE) Main Building. 

The collaborative was hosted by GDOE with support 
from the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) Office of 
Special Education Programs (OSEP). The six participating 
Pacific entities were American Samoa, Commonwealth of 
the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Federated States of 
Micronesia (FSM), Guam, Republic of Palau, and Republic of 
the Marshall Islands. Each entity sent teams comprised of 
entity-level general and special education administrators 
and specialists; school-level principals; general and special 
education teachers; coaches/mentors; and parents of 
students with disabilities to participate in the convening.

The convening engagement activities were facilitated 
by technical assistance providers from four National 
Centers, the Regional Educational Laboratory-Pacific (REL-
Pacific), and Guam CEDDERS. The facilitators included:

¥Sheryl Lazarus and Maureen Hawes from the National 
Center on Educational Outcomes (NCEO);

¥Cesar DÕAgord with virtual support from Kathleen Pfannenstiel 
from the National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI);

¥Amy Peterson from the National Center on Intensive 
Intervention (NCII);

¥Sarah Sayko and Carol Dissen from the National Center on 
Improving Literacy (NCIL);

¥June De Leon and Josephine Cruz from Guam CEDDERS, with 
support from consultants Nieves Flores and June Quitugua; and

¥Christina Tydeman, Meagan Taylor, and Dale Lewis from the 
Regional Educational Laboratory (REL) Pacific. 

The overall goal of the collaborative was to improve educational 
results of all students with disabilities in the Pacific entities 
by focusing on each entityÕs capacity to increase the reading 
achievement of students with disabilities within a multi-tiered 
system of supports. In doing this, the resulting outcomes of the 
collaborative were an enhanced understanding of the following: 
assessment systems, infrastructure systems to sustain and scale-
up, sustainable job-embedded professional development, 
sustainable coaching supports, and increased engagement of key 
stakeholders, in particular parents of students with disabilities.

The regional event was years in the making and 
resulted in increased collaboration and partnerships 
across the Pacific region. The learning and partnerships 
made as result of the Pacific SSIP Collaborative will surely 
be enduring and a hallmark of the persistent Pacific spirit.

(Related photos on pages 10-12)


On October 11, Guam CEDDERS Interim Director June De Leon (3rd from left front) joins the National Center and REL Pacific facilitators for a photo at GDOE. (L-R) Sheryl 
Lazarus, NCEO; Carol Dissen, NCIL; Amy Peterson, NCII; June De Leon; Sarah Sayko, NCIL; Dale Lewis, REL Pacific; Christine Tydeman, REL Pacific; Maureen Hawes, NCEO; 
Meagan Taylor, REL Pacific; and Cesar DÕAgord, NCSI.



GDOE Hosts ÒOur Pacific Journey for ImprovementÓ



GDOE Hosts ÒOur Pacific Journey for ImprovementÓ



GDOE Hosts ÒOur Pacific Journey for ImprovementÓ



GDOE Takes the Lead in ASD Assessment Training

Guam Department of Education (GDOE), in partnership with 
Guam CEDDERS, University of Southern California University 
Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (USC UCEDD), 
and ChildrenÕs Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), prioritized building 
capacity of GDOE personnel to identify and assess young and 
school age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Since 
April 2016, Irina Zamora, Psy.D., from USC-CHLA, facilitated 
the assessment training series for the development of GDOE 
Cohorts 1 & 2 comprised of 17 early intervention and special 
education personnel representing an interdisciplinary team of 
early interventionists, speech pathologists, school psychologists, 
social workers, and consulting resource teachers-technical 
assistance. The training series included on-site and off-site 
consultation to ensure competencies in administering, scoring, 
and diagnosing children with ASD using the Autism Diagnostic 
Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2), which is considered 
the gold standard for observational assessment of ASD.

During school year 2018-2019, GDOE committed to 
developing another interdisciplinary team, or Cohort #3, 
to complete the ASD assessment training. With GDOE 
Cohorts 1 & 2 serving as coaches, Dr. Zamora facilitated the 
on-site and off-site consultation for Cohort #3 members 
with the October 1-4 on-site visit to Guam concluding the 
training series with the seven Cohort #3 members taking the 
Western Psychological Services (WPS) ADOS-2 certification 
examination. The individually completed examination 
booklets were submitted to WPS for scoring and certification.

In conjunction with Dr. ZamoraÕs October on-site visit to 
Guam, Dr. Zamora conducted technical assistance and 
training visits to Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Palau from September 
16-28. During her visit to GuamÕs neighboring islands, Dr. 
Zamora conducted classroom observations, home visits, 
and workshops for parents and staff on the identification 
and evidence-based strategies for children with ASD.


On October 4, The GDOE ADOS-2 Cohort 3 members and their coaches posed for a picture with Dr. Irina Zamora. L-R (front): Janice Almoguera, ADOS-2 coach; Marita 
Gogue, ADOS-2 coach; Pia Watson, Cohort 3; Dr. Irina Zamora, consultant; Rowena Dimla, Cohort 3; Barbara Bernardo, Cohort 3; Alma Terbio, ADOS-2 coach; Anna Perez, 
ADOS-2 coach. L-R (back): Audra Mesa, Cohort 3; and Jonathan Guerrero, Cohort 3. Cohort 3 members not shown: Nadine Cepeda and Arnell Medler.

ROP Works on Improving Services 

for Students with Visual Impairments

Through funding from the Republic of Palau (ROP) Special 
Education Program, Guam CEDDERS June De Leon and consultant 
Donna McNear conducted a two-day technical assistance visit to 
Pelelui Elementary in ROP on November 5 and 6. The visit supported 
ROP in its efforts to improve programs and services for students 
with visual impairments. The visit included classroom observations 
and training for school personnel and parents on community 
supports for improving educational services for students with 
visual impairments. The visit also included individual meetings 
with the parents, teachers, and principal of the students with 
visual impairments enrolled at Pelelui Elementary. The meetings 
were an opportunity to learn from the parents about priorities 
for their children and how the school can support their priorities.


On November 5, Guam CEDDERS consultant Donna McNear (standing) expressed 
the importance of collaboration for improving programs and services at Pelelui 
Elementary school.



GDOE Provides School-Level Support for Assessments

On November 18, the Guam Department of 
Education (GDOE), in partnership with Guam 
CEDDERS, provided school-level support to 
aimswebPlus trainers at Juan M. Guerrero Elementary 
School. The training session included 10 school-level 
trainers and centered on how to generate data reports 
using the new aimswebPlus portal. AimswebPlus is 
the universal screener used by the GDOE to identify 
students who may be at-risk in reading and math. 
School-level trainers will use the skills gained in the 
session to assist their colleagues at each grade-level 
in generating reports. Teachers will use the data in 
the reports to adapt instruction and interventions 
in order to meet the unique needs of students in 
their class. The training session was facilitated by 
Guam CEDDERS Training Associate Josephine Cruz, 
and consultants Nieves Flores and June Quitugua.


Guam CEDDERS Training Associate Josephine Cruz (pointing to the laptop screen) assisted teachers 
in generating data reports. L-R: Lalaine Ocampo, 4th grade teacher; Josephine Cruz; Michelle 
DeGuzman, 1st grade teacher; and Kasaundra Penaflor, Kindergarten teacher.


Guam CEDDERS consultant Nieves Flores (standing) answered questions for teachers at Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School. Seated L-R: Joe Fernandez, 3rd grade teacher; 
MiÕami Hayes, 2nd grade teacher; Aurelia Perez, 5th grade teacher; and Marianne Gutierrez, 5th grade teacher. (Not pictured: June Quitugua,Guam CEDDERS consultant)



GDOE Provides an Online Tool for Students with Reading Barriers

The Guam Department of Education (GDOE) in partnership with Guam CEDDERS held overview sessions on November 
25-26 at the GDOE Tiyan main office for Special Education teachers, Division personnel, and parents centered on how 
to use Bookshare to help students with a print disability have access to reading materials. Bookshare, a Benetech 
initiative, is an ebook library that contains over 770,000 titles. Bookshare makes reading easier for people with reading 
barriers such as dyslexia, blindness, and physical disabilities. Bookshare allows users to listen to books being read 
aloud, to follow along with audio and highlighted text, to read in large type, and to read in Braille. Free membership in 
Bookshare is available for all qualified U.S. students of any age through funds from the U.S. Department of Education. 
The sessions were facilitated by Christine Jones, the Associate Director for U.S. Education for Bookshare/Benetech. 


On November 25, Christine Jones (standing), Bookshare/Benetech Associate 
Director of U.S. Education; assisted Untalan Middle School Special Education 
teachers Beverly Chargualaf (left) and Dolores Bakker (right).

On November 26, representatives from the GDOE Psych program listened to the 
Bookshare presentation. From L-R: Alma Terbio, Psych Evaluator; Marita Gogue, 
Psych Evaluator; Diella Rico, Academic Evaluator; and Maria Pia Watson, Psych 
Evaluator.

GDOE Administrators and Teachers Review MSAA Results

On October 15 & 16, the Guam Department of Education 
(GDOE) Division of Special Education held three-hour 
sessions to review the results of the Spring 2019 Multi-State 
Alternate Assessment (MSAA) administration and to discuss 
implications for improving academic instruction for students 
with significant cognitive disabilities. These sessions entitled 
focused on ÒSpring 2019 MSAA Results and Data Interpretation,Ó 
were designed for school administrators and elementary 
and secondary special education teachers who served as test 
administrators for the Spring 2019 MSAA on-line alternate 
assessment system administered to students with significant 
cognitive disabilities requiring an alternate assessment based 
on alternate achievement standards (AA-AAS) in ELA and 
Mathematics for grades 3-8 and 11. Guam CEDDERS June 
De Leon provided technical support during the review of 
the state (Guam) and school summaries of GuamÕs MSAA 
participation and performance data. In addition, each school 
received their individual student reports for dissemination 
to parents during the 1st quarter parent conferences.

The sessions also provided an opportunity to review the Spring 
2019 MSAA results in relation to the curriculum, instruction, 
and assessment framework for improving academic instruction 
for students with significant cognitive disabilities requiring 
an AA-AAS. Additional resources were provided to support 
teaching ELA and Mathematics that align to the grade level 
content standards, which included sample templates for lesson 
creation that incorporated a process for identifying adaptations 
needed for addressing the learning needs of the students.


On October 15, Nancy Diaz (Left) Principal, P.C. Lujan Elementary, confidently 
presented her table teamÕs response during an activity related to the MSAA results. 
(L-R) Table team members include Nancy Diaz; Kaiana Mendiola, Special Education 
Teacher, UPI Elementary; Cassandra Flores, Student Teacher, P.C. Lujan Elementary; 
and Elizabeth Umagat, Special Education Teacher, P.C. Lujan Elementary.



CNMI Special Education Program Gathers Stakeholder Input

On November 25, the Commonwealth of the Northern 
Mariana Islands (CNMI) Public School System (PSS), Special 
Education Program convened its Special Education State 
Advisory Panel (SESAP), CNMIÕs key stakeholder group, 
comprised of PSS administrators, agency/organization 
representatives, parent representatives, and individuals with 
disabilities. Guam CEDDERS June De Leon supported the CNMI 
Special Education Director during the review of CNMIÕs FFY 
2018 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B 
Annual Performance Report (APR) indicator performance data 
and information, including discussion of reasons for ÒslippageÓ 
from last reporting yearÕs performance, where applicable. In 
addition, trend data for each APR indicator were reviewed 
to gather input from SESAP members on proposed indicator 
targets for FFY 2019, a requirement of the FFY 2018 IDEA 
Part B APR. SESAPÕs stakeholder input for proposed FFY 2019 
APR indicator targets was a consensus amongst all members.

On the same day, Ms. De Leon supported the PSS Assessment 
Coordinator who facilitated an afternoon session with 21 
special education teachers and student teachers on the ÒCNMI 
Spring 2019 Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) Results 
& Data Interpretation.Ó The components of the district, school, 
and individual student reports were reviewed to increase 
understanding of the student results from administering 
the Spring 2019 MSAA. In addition, implications for 
improving academic instruction for students with significant 
cognitive disabilities was discussed with resources provided 
to support lesson plan development. Positive feedback 
from the session indicated that the information shared, 
especially the student results from the Spring 2019 MSAA 
administration, was helpful to improve instruction and 
to be prepared for the Spring 2020 MSAA administration.


On November 25, Guam CEDDERS June De Leon (sitting left front) supported the CNMI Special Education State Advisory Panel (SESAP) members during the review of CNMIÕs 
FFY 2018 IDEA Part B APR.



Senior Citizens Participate in Technology Demonstrations


On September 26, the Guam System for 
Assistive Technology (GSAT) presented 
the various assistive technology devices 
available at the GSAT office to Senior 
Citizens at the Mangilao Senior Center. 
Pictured is a senior citizen who volunteered 
to demonstrate the use of a knee rover, an 
alternative to crutches mobility device that 
can be used by individuals recovering from 
foot or lower leg injury / surgery.


On September 20, senior citizens at the Yona/Talofofo Senior Center posed for a photo after participating in an interactive GSAT presentation on the different 
assistive technology devices.


On November 30, the Guam Systems for Assistive Technology (GSAT) presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Sinajana Senior Citizen, Mrs. Annie Sablan, for her 
generous donation of a Hoyer Lift (valued at $400.00) to GSAT. Through the Assistive Technology Reutilization Program, donors are able to donate equipment to 
GSAT which in turn can be loaned to other individuals in need of the equipment. Pictured (L-R): Tanya Simer, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate; Leah Abelon, 
Guam CEDDERS GSAT Coordinator; Annie Sablan, Donor; Ken San Agustin, Sinajana Senior Center Program Coordinator.



College Students Learn About GSAT Services


On September 23, Leah Abelon, GSAT Center Coordinator, conducted a presentation on GSAT services and the Akudi Loan Program to students attending the University 
of Guam Social Work Program. Students also toured the Assistive Technology Demo Center and the Model Home.


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Project Bisita Activities


On October 17, Project Bisita I Familia staff spent a few hours with (standing center) Suruhana Rosalia ÒMama ChaiÓ Fejeran Mateo at Sagan Kotturan CHamoru. Staff were 
introduced to various traditional CHamoru healing methods and the plants needed to make herbal remedies.. 


Vera Blaz, CEDDERS Training Associate (front left), and Jenika Ballesta, CEDDERS Research Associate (kneeling front left), co-facilitated the Project Bisita I Familia Parent Cafe 
on October 18, at the Hilton Resort Guam. The theme for the cafe was ÒBuilding Strong Relationships with Your Children.Ó Thirteen parents participated in the event.


Jenika Ballesta, CEDDERS Research Associate (front right), and Vera Blaz, CEDDERS Training Associate (back middle), co-facilitated the Project Bisita I Familia Parent Cafe on 
November 22, at the Hilton Resort Guam. The theme for the cafe was ÒYou Are Not Alone.Ó Six parents participated in the event.



Guam CEDDERS Welcomes New Staff


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

Jeno Aquino

Student Office Assistant

Justin Natan

Student Office Assistant

Jeno Aquino joined Guam CEDDERS staff 
November 13 as a Student Office Assistant.

Welcome aboard, Jeno!

Justin Natan joined Guam CEDDERS staff 
November 25 as a Student Office Assistant.

Welcome aboard, Justin!


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: june.deleon@guamcedders.org

I Tellai is a quarterly publication of Guam CEDDERS.

Interim Director: June De Leon

Editors: Michelle Aguigui, Vera Blaz, & Josephine Cruz

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

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.