BREAKING: The Guam Department of Education (GDOE) is reeling from a series of catastrophic events, including the permanent closure of Chief Brodie Memorial Elementary School and Lyndon Baines Johnson Elementary School, both shuttered in May 2025 after decades of service. This drastic measure comes amid a severe financial crisis that has left GDOE grappling with the loss of approximately $27 million in federal education funding, risking nearly $150 million more.
As schools close, Erik Swanson, GDOE’s Superintendent, officially resigned on December 20, 2025, citing health reasons. Swanson’s departure marks the end of a tumultuous tenure that began in July 2023, during which he faced longstanding fiscal challenges, procurement delays, and federal compliance issues. His resignation comes at a critical juncture as GDOE navigates ongoing negotiations over federal funds and staffing.
The closures of Chief Brodie and Lyndon Baines Johnson reflect a broader struggle within GDOE, which has been forced to freeze hiring and travel expenditures amidst alarming findings of systemic failure. A recent audit revealed that GDOE could not utilize significant federal grant funding, including key resources for special education and student services, due to management breakdowns. Sen. Vince Borja, chair of the education committee, highlighted that the loss of these funds signifies missed opportunities for enhancing infrastructure and student programs.
In a shocking oversight, GDOE allowed the expiration of $26,877,038.76 in unused federal grant funding. The funds were intended for critical educational services but went unspent as deadlines passed without action. This has led to emergency appeals to federal officials and increased scrutiny of GDOE leadership, as the public school system braces for another financially strained school year.
As the fallout continues, GDOE officials have warned that funding for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year remains uncertain. The U.S. Department of Education has already imposed a 26% cut to GDOE consolidated grant funding for fiscal 2025, dropping it from $35.8 million to $26.48 million.
GDOE currently employs about 2,300 individuals, with approximately 668 federally funded. This precarious situation has raised alarms regarding the potential inability to open facilities such as F.B. Leon Guerrero Middle School without significant payroll reimbursements. GDOE’s financial forecast suggests a looming deficit of between $38 million and $40 million for fiscal 2026.
The impact on students is immediate and severe. After-school care, teacher training, and essential student services are all at risk due to the funding freeze. The public education system, which serves around 24,000 students across 39 schools, is facing unprecedented challenges as it prepares for the next academic year.
In light of these developments, the Guam Education Board has appointed former speaker and educator Judi Won Pat as the new superintendent, set to take office in 2026. Her leadership will be crucial in navigating GDOE through this crisis and restoring trust in the education system.
As the situation unfolds, GDOE continues to face legislative hearings and public scrutiny. The urgency of the matter cannot be overstated, with students’ futures hanging in the balance. Ongoing audits and assessments will be critical in determining the path forward as the community rallies for solutions to ensure that educational standards and services are maintained.
Stay tuned as we monitor further developments on this breaking story.
