Candidates Present Visions for Guam Education Leadership Role

Three candidates aspiring to lead the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) shared their visions during a press conference on October 16, 2023. Current Deputy Assistant Superintendents Barbara Adamos and Joseph Sanchez, along with former deputy superintendent and current Acting Principal of J.P. Success Academy, Erika Cruz, outlined key strategies to enhance the island’s largest government agency. Their proposals focus on improving transparency, retaining teachers, and strengthening financial management as the Guam Education Board (GEB) prepares to appoint the next chief education officer.

The absence of Judith Won Pat, the governor’s education czar and former interim superintendent, and Kenneth Perez, a former deputy superintendent, was noted due to prior commitments. Each candidate brings substantial experience in education, having navigated significant challenges during their tenure, including the COVID-19 pandemic and issues related to federal funding.

Transparency and Trust
All three candidates emphasized the importance of transparency in rebuilding public trust. Sanchez highlighted the necessity of open communication with families, staff, and the community, stating, “Individuals should not have to resort to (sending a Freedom of Information Act request) to get documents that are already public.” He stressed that fostering a culture of openness is essential for the department’s credibility.

Cruz echoed these sentiments, asserting that transparency is foundational to trust. She stated, “We serve 23,000 students and 3,000 employees. Without transparency, there is no trust.” Her experience in reopening Tiyan High School during the pandemic underscored her commitment to keeping parents informed about their children’s safety.

Adamos proposed the creation of “listening circles” to engage teachers, parents, and students in community discussions. “These circles will not only address concerns but celebrate success,” she said, reaffirming her dedication to transparency from the board level down.

Addressing Financial Challenges
When discussing the sustainability of school modernization efforts, the candidates acknowledged the $240 million allocated for GDOE’s facility improvement projects as insufficient. Cruz advocated for the establishment of long-term, dedicated funding and improved collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense to benefit families in military housing. “We’re at the mercy of temporary funds,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for accountability in spending federal dollars.

Adamos referred to the department’s ten-year school facility master plan, which prioritizes schools for refurbishment or potential closure. “We have 12 schools currently under refurbishment and several more that need assessment,” she said, highlighting the importance of maintaining safe and conducive learning environments.

Sanchez stressed that the department must first demonstrate effective use of existing funds before pursuing additional appropriations. “It’s unacceptable to have lapses in funding while claiming budget shortfalls,” he stated, underscoring the necessity of responsible financial management.

Strategies for Teacher Retention
With persistent teacher shortages affecting public schools in Guam, the candidates outlined plans to recruit and retain educators, especially in hard-to-fill positions. Adamos, a veteran educator with 35 years of experience, highlighted the significance of mentorship and professional development in retaining teachers. “Mentorship works,” she affirmed, advocating for support systems from the first day of teaching through the critical early years.

Sanchez proposed expanding certification support and mentorship at schools, noting that over 80 teachers have achieved full credentials through GDOE’s internal certification assistance program. “We’ve shifted mentoring to the school level so new teachers get real-time support,” he said, adding that the department also covers costs for Praxis exams and coursework.

Cruz emphasized the need for a respectful and supportive workplace to enhance retention. “Healthy environments lead to respectful employees,” she stated, advocating for incentives for critical teaching positions.

Ensuring Fiscal Accountability
In light of recent reports about unspent funds, the candidates were asked how they would promote fiscal transparency and timely appropriation use. Sanchez stressed the importance of improved communication and monitoring systems between federal and local funds. “It’s unacceptable to not be clear on where those lapses are. It tells us that we are either not tracking the funding with the proper data or missing details,” he said.

Cruz, noting the absence of a comptroller at GDOE, called for stronger internal controls and accountability measures from her leadership team. “At $24 million in lapsed funds, how can that be? I would hold my deputy of finance accountable and ensure that the funds are used wisely and transparently,” she asserted.

Adamos indicated plans to implement a visual, data-driven system to track spending and project milestones. “I want them to see the big picture. This is how much money we have to spend, and this is when it has to be spent,” she explained, emphasizing the need for accountability at all levels.

The GEB is set to meet on October 21, 2023, to deliberate on the candidates, with a decision expected shortly thereafter. The new superintendent will replace Kenneth Erik Swanson, whose last day with GDOE is scheduled for December 31, 2023. GEB Chair Angel Sablan expressed the board’s desire for the selectee to start on January 1, 2026, emphasizing the importance of a smooth transition given that Swanson did not have a transition period upon his appointment two years ago.