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American Samoa Government - PR001-03262026
Posted: March 27, 2026
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Celebration of National Developmental Disability Awareness Month March 2026, “We’re Here. Then, Now, Always”
PAGO PAGO, American Samoa - National Developmental Disabilities Awareness is celebrated annually during the month of March. This is the time when schools and local communities hold events to discuss and highlight barriers while simultaneously celebrating the contributions of individuals with disabilities. This year’s theme, “We’re Here. Then, Now, Always” focuses on the ongoing presence and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities in society. Its goal is to raise awareness and promote inclusive practices across different communities. The initiative encourages individuals , families, and organizations to engage in activities that support the rights and contributions of people with developmental disabilities. The universal goal is and will continue to be to break down barriers preventing employment opportunities access which prevent individuals with disabilities from achieving full community inclusion and integration.
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation again partnered with the Department of Education to continue the process of sensitizing our school students with disabilities in the age range (14-21) by articulating and discussing the myriads of available programs and services to facilitate their acquisition of necessary skills and abilities to enable them to attain their aspired level of quality of life. This initiative targets students with disabilities transitioning from secondary education into postsecondary education, employment, and independent living, in alignment with The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended) and The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
This Outreach Endeavor involved onsite visits to Faga’itua High School, Samoana High School, Nu’uuli Vocational Technical High School, Tafuna High School, and Leone High School by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation team comprised of representatives from each service program it administers. From Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20, 2026, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Team visited and staged presentations to all listed high schools. The enabling support received from the Director of Education Maefau Dr. Mary Lauagaia Taufete’e, Assistant Director of the SPED Division Dr. Herbert “Junella” Boat, and the participating teachers contributed to the success of this outreach campaign.
The primary objectives pursued included: (1) Increase awareness of vocational rehabilitation services available to students with disabilities; (2) Promote self-advocacy, independence, and career readiness; (3) Support successful transition from school to employment or postsecondary training; (4) Introduce students to assistive technology and workplace accommodations; and (5) Strengthen collaboration between OVR, Department of Education (DOE), families, and community partners.
These efforts are being emboldened and catalyzed by the declared commitment of the Pula and Pulu Administration to the principle of full inclusion for all residents of the Territory of American Samoa, irrespective of ability or disability, in all government and community programs to empower them to attain their desired quality of life. This executive commitment is critical and imperative to overcome mounting barriers and obstacles severely challenging well-meaning initiatives to raise the quality of life for all individuals living with disabilities. We are therefore very grateful for Governor Pulaali’i and Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala’s support.
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