Fernandez commends UMS staff for protecting students

by Krystal Paco

Guam - In response to last week's incident at Untalan Middle School involving an irate parent and several school staff, Department of Education superintendent Jon Fernandez visited the Tiyan campus Monday morning.  Fernandez wrote in a press release, "I want to commend the staff and teachers in the front office for their courage in shielding students and trying to defuse this serious situation...several employees are still dealing with the shock and stress from the incident, and I need to be there hear directly from them."

Fernandez is following up with the Guam International Airport Authority's Airport Police Division to get a copy of their report to the Attorney General's Office to determine whether additional information is needed.

Fernandez acknowledges today's public apology from the parent, Phil Taijeron, whose daughter was bullied last week. Fernandez says it's a good first step, but hopes Taijeron will consider offering an apology in person to the staff directly affected once they feel ready to meet with him.

Counseling services are available to those students and staff who were involved.

Taijeron's wife, Senator Mana Silva Taijeron, is seeking re-election to the Guam Legislature in Tuesday's general election.