School community wants OCP principal out

by Michele Catahay

Guam - Teachers, staff and parents at Ordot-Chalan Pago Elementary School have had major concerns with principal Janet Duenas. So much so, that they called on her removal.

One such parent says the community has been calling on the removal of Duenas to sit as school principal.  "According to some parents," the person said anonymously, "there are some concerns about mistreatment from staff and parents. It's very unprofessional." 

While Department of Education Superintendent Dr. Nerissa Bretania Underwood says she cannot provide further details about the case because it deals with personnel, teachers have told us that Duenas had caused a hostile working environment. They've even told us they had worked on circulating a petition to remove her altogether. Underwood says she has placed former Agana Heights Elementary School assistant principal Rebecca Perez in an acting capacity at OCP.

"Just as we have some employees who at times encounter some challenges in their professions as educators, we have to give our leaders who may be experiencing the same challenges the opportunity for due process but clearly our intent here is to ensure that they're provided the opportunity to state their case. There had been complaints that were made and so our goal is to ensure that both the leaders and employees are provided equal opportunity," she told KUAM News.

The concerned parent further questions the superintendent, saying, "Where is she? For one, where is she? I'm concerned because my son will be attending this school and prior, the other principals were very forward with us, and all that. Her now, I guess it's time for her removal."

Underwood didn't say where Duenas will be placed until the investigation is completed, commenting, "At this point I hesitate to comment further, but these are personnel matter and I would prefer for the process to go forward."

In the meantime, the parent is hoping with a new principal in place, things will only get better.  The person said, "I wish that we can all rejoice and come together as one - the PTO, the parents, teachers, staff - everybody, all of us around the district. Let's recoup and let's make it a new year."