by Krystal Paco

Guam - "The facility is open," proudly stated Billy Cruz. "It received a letter grade 'A'." That's a big change from Simon Sanchez High School's "D" rating from the Department of Public Health's last official inspection in June, which forced the school to shut down due to failure to address repeat violations.

While correcting Public Health's citations, the Yigo campus was struck by vandals late last month, which further delayed their reopening. This morning, inspectors paid a follow-up visit where inspectors observed that old citations were corrected but new day-to-day repairs needed to be made, such as a leaking urinal and leaking water fountain. When inspectors arrived again this afternoon for an official re-inspection, the repairs were made.

Environmental Health Specialist Supervisor Ron Carandang told KUAM News, "All the violations were corrected except for the leaks that are under contract." Today's rain unveiled more leaks in the dining area ceiling, which were the source of today's two demerits. An action plan has been accepted to open the school on the condition that this area is condoned off.

Cruz, the facilities and maintenance manager for the Department of Education, said, "Apparently we're in the process of having an IFB out right now and hopefully we get a contractor to work on all the roof leaks for this school."

Sanchez High principal Beth Perez recognizes the hard work over the last several week has paid off, noting that she wished to sincerely thank, "The twelve-month employees of Simon Sanchez, the maintenance, my administrative team, and the many people from the community that have assisted."

With this good news the Home of the Sharks will begin classes on August 9 with the rest of DOE.