Candidates Present Plans to Enhance Guam Department of Education

Three of the five candidates vying for the position of education superintendent for the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) participated in a press conference on Monday, discussing their visions for improving safety and security in the territory’s schools. The candidates—Joseph Sanchez, Erika Cruz, and Barbara Adamos—shared their strategies for enhancing transparency, modernizing facilities, and retaining teachers. This event was organized by GDOE in collaboration with the Guam Education Board.

Sanchez, currently serving as the deputy superintendent for Curriculum and Instructional Improvement, emphasized the importance of public engagement in GDOE’s strategic planning. Cruz, who is the principal of JP Torres Success Academy and a former deputy superintendent, highlighted her experience in managing educational operations during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and Typhoon Mawar. Adamos, who holds the current position of deputy superintendent for Educational Support and Community Learning, stressed the necessity of fostering open communication with parents and educators through initiatives like “listening circles.”

The candidates were addressing the backdrop of GDOE’s current challenges, including financial constraints and the need for facility upgrades. According to Cruz, GDOE’s fiscal year 2026 appropriation stands at $240.4 million, a significant reduction from the requested $306 million. She pointed out that 12 schools are currently undergoing refurbishment, underscoring the need for consistent funding and collaboration with federal partners, notably the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA).

Sanchez outlined a plan to prioritize updating cost assessments and addressing maintenance gaps before seeking additional financial resources. “Before we start asking for more money, we need to get a handle on what we’re using the money we have now,” he stated, indicating a commitment to fiscal responsibility.

In terms of recruitment and support for educators, Adamos highlighted the importance of mentorship and instructional coaching, while Sanchez noted existing mentoring programs aimed at teacher certification. Cruz proposed strategies to improve recruitment for high-demand positions in special education and STEM fields, advocating for targeted off-island outreach.

The candidates also addressed financial oversight, with Cruz calling for stronger leadership in fiscal management. “I will clearly ensure that all our monies are spent wisely,” she asserted, reflecting the need for transparency in budgeting. Adamos added that she would implement tracking systems for funds and projects to ensure accountability.

Enrollment figures reveal a decline in GDOE’s student population, dropping from 31,000 to 23,000 during Cruz’s previous tenure, raising considerations for potential school consolidations. Sanchez noted that decisions regarding consolidation must involve collaboration among administrators, teachers, and parents, advocating for operational efficiency in future spending.

The candidates acknowledged the necessity for effective crisis management to mitigate learning loss during emergencies. Adamos highlighted partnerships with local organizations, including Guam Homeland Security and the American Red Cross, to enhance preparedness. Sanchez emphasized his role in leading GDOE’s COVID-19 Readiness Task Force, focusing on consistent communication and updates.

The Guam Education Board plans to select a new superintendent before current Superintendent Erik Swanson retires on December 31, 2023, due to health reasons. Board Chairman Angel Sablan expressed satisfaction with the candidates’ commitment to GDOE and the community. “The board is very pleased that all candidates have experience in GDOE, passion for students, and a commitment to the community,” he stated.

The next board meeting on October 21, 2023, will include an executive session to evaluate the candidates’ proposals. If a consensus is not reached, a special meeting may be convened in early November to finalize the selection. “No matter who we choose as superintendent, we’re going to be happy that they will give their 110% to make the future of our kids that much better,” Sablan added, highlighting the board’s optimism for the future leadership of GDOE.