CNMI Schools & Jobs: The public school system is struggling to retain teachers as a worsening budget crunch leaves vacancies unfilled; it has lost 137 employees since January, including 47 teachers, and educators say they’re being offered substitute work instead of permanent positions. Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration has proposed auctioning deep-sea mining leases off the Mariana Trench, including areas near CNMI and Guam, drawing backlash from Pacific territories and CNMI leaders who want baseline studies, transparency, and protections before any further steps. Local Government Review: CNMI Gov. David Apatang says the commonwealth is conducting a 60-day review of the proposed leasing notice with “extreme caution,” while Guam officials and lawmakers criticize being shut out of formal comment. Retiree Pension Lawsuit Threat: The CNMI Retirees Association is considering legal action if the government stops paying the 25% portion of pensions after Aug. 31, 2026. Weather Watch: Forecasters warn flooding risk this week as a monsoon setup brings heavy rain to Guam and the Marianas, even as tropical systems steer clear. Library Grant: Joeten-Kiyu Public Library received $200,000 to strengthen family literacy and preserve Indigenous storytelling. Sports: Orrin Joseph Ogumoro Pharmin wrapped up a World Masters campaign with a season-best 100m time, and the NMI U20 men’s team received a send-off ahead of AFC qualifiers in Mongolia. Corrections Update: NMIDOC reported the death of an ICE detainee Aug. 23 and said the matter is under investigation.