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Parents torn over DOE receivership

by Michele Catahay

While the Department of Education waits to receive more details from the U.S. Department of Education, parents have mixed reactions over the feds' imposition of a third-party fiduciary agent and what it will mean for school programs.

Tamuning resident John Cruz has grandchildren attending Tamuning Elementary School.  While there have been issues in the island's public schools ranging from the lack of adequate supplies to the change in management at the agency, Cruz says the island needs to work together for the betterment of the children.

"Why do we need them? Just keep doing what they want you to do and the funds will be there," he said.

While DOE waits for word from the feds on how monies could be disbursed to ensure programs aren't hampered, Agana Heights resident Jack Cross says he's hoping DOE will get back on its feet with the help of a third-party agent.  "I think we're in kind of in receivership right now," he surmised.  "When it comes to federal funds, it's unfortunate. I hope we get some stability in there at some point soon."

DOE Superintendent Dr. Nerissa Bretania Underwood has said that it may take up to six months to have a third-party take over federal dollars. This means USDOE will hold funds until one is put in place.  She did say USDOE has assured her that programs won't be in jeopardy.

For the time being, the island's chief executive says DOE has plenty of work ahead of it.  Governor Felix Camacho told KUAM News, "I believe they are making a sound decision; you know, our education department had an opportunity to provide otherwise and provide evidence that they indeed did make with all the requirements - they didn't make the case. 

"What they have in the way of resources should be dedicated to the local funds and the management of that let the third-party, come in, relieve them of that responsibility, set the right system in place and over time hopefully they can build capacity and then build it again."