DOE schools can't accept free WiFi from GTA

by Krystal Paco

Guam - It was a Facebook contest offering free high speed Internet with WiFi for schools who garnered the most likes on the GTA Facebook page.

And although Untalan Middle, Simon Sanchez High, and Vicente Benavente Middle School did just that, they won't be able to access the free Internet this school year.

In a release from GTA, Santa Barbara, St. Francis, and St. Anthony Catholic Schools are announced the winners because the Department of Education schools are unable to accept it.

DOE superintendent Jon Fernandez tells KUAM News its unfortunate but GovGuam agencies cannot accept free services but hopes to work with the telecommunications company in the future. A statement said, " Unfortunately, public law prevents actual or potential vendors from offering gifts or favors to any government agency.  GTA is currently a vendor with our department. For this reason, we were unable to accept these services, and we notified GTA of this oversight on their part."

In addition to free Internet, GTA will fund initial construction costs up to $10,000 including infrastructure and equipment.