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American Samoa Government - PR001-07012026
Posted: July 1, 2026
BYU McKay School of Education and American Samoa Department of Health Strengthen Support for Students with Disabilities
FAGATOGO, American Samoa — A team from the Brigham Young University (BYU) McKay School of Education, led by Professor Elizabeth A. Cutrer Parraga, recently began their third visit to American Samoa, marking a significant step in their ongoing efforts to support families and educators of children with developmental disabilities.
The team, which included Professor Agatha Gibbons and 11 BYU students, focused on expanding educational resources and training for local families and teachers. This visit built upon outcomes from previous engagements, emphasizing sustainable, year-long support for participating Special Education teachers across the territory.
The BYU team met with Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula on June 29, 2026 to deliver a presentation on the impact of their work and ongoing strategies. The presentation detailed the results of their previous visits, showcasing new resources such as children’s books centered on bullying, managing negative emotions, and mental health, which are designed to resonate with local youth. The team also incorporated music into their sessions to deepen connections with the children and record their progress. Beyond these initiatives, they are collaborating closely with the American Samoa Department of Education to bolster island-wide support for children with disabilities.
The presentation also addressed educational impacts, focusing on behavioral support and empowering teachers to meet the complex needs of their students. Recognizing the challenges faced by local families due to a lack of resources, the team underscored their commitment to providing continuous, sustainable efforts to help support students, teachers, and families.
The second presentation was provided by former BYU students who are now practicing professionals. These alumni are working to provide comprehensive evaluations for children with developmental disabilities. Central to this approach is the adaptation of standard assessments and surveys, which the team is working to better reflect and respect the cultural backgrounds and upbringings of the children they serve.
The returning team members include:
● Melia Fonoimoana Garrett, School Psychologist
● Isabel Madia Hull, Board Certified Behavior Analyst
● Sara Ditto, School Psychologist
The coordination of these efforts and the essential support for families were facilitated by the American Samoa Department of Health's "Leo O Aiga" program, led by Ipuniuesea Eliapo-Unutoa. This ongoing collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering inclusive environments and providing the necessary tools to empower children with disabilities and their support systems throughout American Samoa.