The Department of Education opened the 2025-2026 school year with a special church service at the Nuuuli Methodist Church.
DOE Director Maefau Dr. Mary Taufetee, along with teachers, cooks, bus drivers, maintenance staff, administrators, and other DOE leaders, were joined by Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and First Lady, Senator Tuialuuluu Vaimili Tuialuuluu and Mrs. Tuialuuluu, as well as cabinet members. The theme of the service was, “The Learners of Today are Leaders of Tomorrow.”
Governor Pulaalii said that teaching is not just a profession—it was a calling, one that impacts the lives of everyone.
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The Governor stated that his administration is committed to identifying what needs to be done and address the failures.
He shared that he learned from the American Samoa Community College that students are 3-4 years behind in reading. He also mentioned that a judge had noted how judges and lawyers struggle to understand police reports. He clarified that it was not his intention to look down on police but to highlight an issue that urgently needs everyone’s attention.
He emphasized that as parents, teachers, leaders, and members of the business community, we must do a better job educating ourselves and the people—especially our students.
The Governor also reflected on how his life was shaped by his own father, who was the first Samoan Director of Education. While his father finished his formal education at 8th grade, he was a self-taught man and was one of the first local teachers at the territory’s first high school, alonside other education pioneers such as A.P. Lutali, Faamausili and Paopao Ailua Meko. Governor Pulaalii thanked DOE personnel for their dedication and hard work during the past school year and wished them a successful academic year ahead.
Reverend Tagiilima stressed that learning begins at home and emphasized the vital role that parents play in their children’s early development. He urged teachers to reflect on why they have been chosen as teachers and to remain faithful and honest in carrying out their duties. “Honesty is the best policy,” he said. In addition, he encouraged them to always have faith in the Lord.
Photos: Dept. of Education
