Candidates Unveil Plans for Guam Education Superintendent Role

Three of the five candidates vying for the position of education superintendent for the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) presented their visions during a media event on Monday. Joseph Sanchez, Erika Cruz, and Barbara Adamos outlined their strategies for ensuring a secure and effective learning environment for the approximately 23,000 students enrolled in GDOE. This press conference, organized by GDOE and the Guam Education Board, comes as the current superintendent, Erik Swanson, plans to retire at the end of the year due to health issues.

The candidates emphasized key areas such as transparency, school modernization, and teacher retention. Sanchez currently serves as the deputy superintendent of Curriculum and Instructional Improvement, while Cruz is the principal of JP Torres Success Academy and formerly held the role of deputy superintendent of Educational Support and Community Learning, a position now occupied by Adamos. The two absent candidates, former Speaker Judith Won Pat and Kenneth Perez, a former GDOE deputy superintendent, had prior commitments, according to Angel Sablan, chairman of the Education Board, and GDOE public information officer Damen Borja.

Transparency and Communication Focus

Sanchez stated that transparency has been a foundational element of GDOE’s strategic plan since its inception in 2022. He underscored the importance of continuous public engagement, saying, “That’s why in the strategic plan, we included a very robust plan to engage with not only the media, but with the community.”

Cruz highlighted her experience in launching Tiyan High School in 2012 and managing operations through crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and Typhoon Mawar. She noted that transparency is essential for building trust among the department’s staff and students. Adamos proposed creating “listening circles” to engage parents, teachers, and students in meaningful dialogue about regional issues and successes.

Funding and Facilities Challenges

Cruz detailed that GDOE had received $240.4 million in appropriations for fiscal year 2026, a decrease from the requested $306 million. With 12 schools currently under refurbishment, she emphasized the necessity for long-term funding and improved communication with federal partners such as the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA).

Adamos referenced the 2021 GDOE School Facility Master Plan, a decade-long strategy that includes the refurbishment of schools like FB Leon Guerrero Middle School. Sanchez asserted that before seeking additional funds, it is crucial to evaluate current expenditures. “Before we start asking for more money, we need to get a handle on what we’re using the money we have now,” he said.

Recruitment and financial oversight also emerged as pressing topics. Adamos advocated for enhanced mentorship and instructional coaching. Sanchez pointed out that GDOE has existing mentoring programs to support teacher certifications. Cruz suggested that fostering supportive school environments and conducting targeted recruitment could help fill high-demand positions in special education, English, science, and mathematics.

Sanchez addressed concerns about reports of unspent local funds, attributing them to inadequate communication. “It’s unacceptable to have shortfalls while some funding went unspent,” he stated, committing to improved coordination between federal and local funding teams. Cruz stressed the need for strong financial leadership, noting that the department currently lacks a controller. “I will clearly ensure that all our monies are spent wisely,” she pledged.

Adamos added that implementing detailed tracking systems for all funds and projects is essential. She emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “We cannot afford to waste time or money. Every dollar spent and every decision made impacts the students directly.”

Enrollment Decline and Future Directions

GDOE’s enrollment has dropped from 31,000 during Cruz’s previous tenure as deputy superintendent to approximately 23,000, leading to discussions about potential school consolidation. Cruz asserted that such decisions should involve collaboration among administrators, teachers, and parents, guided by transparency.

Sanchez, who chairs the Commission on the Maximization of District Resources, pointed out the importance of operational efficiency in future spending. He previously oversaw a decommissioning program that engaged the community regarding school closures.

All three candidates reinforced the need for effective planning and communication to mitigate learning loss during emergencies. Adamos discussed partnerships with Guam Homeland Security and the American Red Cross, noting lessons learned from the pandemic and Typhoon Mawar. Sanchez highlighted his leadership in GDOE’s COVID-19 Readiness Task Force, emphasizing the importance of consistent updates. Cruz reiterated her commitment to prioritize student safety, followed by staff needs and operational continuity.

The Education Board plans to select a new superintendent prior to Swanson’s departure on December 31, allowing for a seamless transition. The position is contracted for four years, with the next request not expected until 2030, barring any early resignations. Sablan expressed satisfaction with the candidates’ backgrounds, stating, “The board is very pleased that all candidates have experience in GDOE, passion for students, and a commitment to the community.”

The board’s next meeting on October 21 will include an executive session to deliberate on the candidates’ proposals. If a consensus is not reached, a special meeting will 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 concluded.