The Department of Education (DOE) kicked off its “Once Upon a Christmas, A Magical Disney Celebration” last night.
The Disneyland Castle in front of the DOE main office, in Utulei, provided the backdrop to the performing groups which sang, danced and did skits.
Governor Lemanu and First Lady Ella, Lt. Governor Talauega and several directors, joined parents and DOE officials at the opening night.
Mrs. Minareta Tinitali, Director of the ECE Division was the emcee. 
Governor Lemanu said, he had seen Facebook posts by the media and members of the public saying that DOE was spending so much money on the castle, when the money should have gone to more useful purposes. 
He said, fares to Disneyland are expensive but the castle was DOE’s effort to enable the children of the territory to experience the magic of Disneyland.
Lemanu thanked Director Talauega Dr. Samasoni Asaeli, staff, parents and the students—from ECE to high school—for their support.
Director Talauega told KHJ News that the three day event has been in the making for several weeks, and DOE hopes to stage it annually.
He thanks parents, teachers, and students for their participation and support. 
The program continues this evening and will conclude tomorrow.
Photos: ASDOE
