The Guam Department of Education is in a state of emergency.

That’s what GDOE Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Swanson had to say during another round of emergency session on Bill 317 with lawmakers.

Senators, alongside a panel of government officials, put a pin in the meeting as the Guam Education Board swiftly met for an emergency meeting of their own.

The Board officially passed a resolution to declare a state of emergency for GDOE.

“To declare the board declares a state of emergency on behalf of GDOE…Relative to the opening and operation of schools for SY 24-45,” said GEB Vice-Chair Angel Sablan.

And while talks of potentially pushing back an already postponed start to the school year was floated around at the Guam Congress building, Swanson made it clear school will start for schools that have passed Public Health inspections by Aug. 15.

A notice of any changes is slated by Aug. 9.

“The schools that have passed inspection will be opened on August 15th. Any changes to that will be addressed by August 15th,” said GEB Chair Mary Okada.

As for the 17 schools awaiting a closer look, Swanson said they need to look into an alternate learning mode.

Meantime, Swanson said he’s looking for an emergency declaration will accelerate emergency procurement, which he adds would help augment manpower to go through and scrutinize and repair schools prior to inspections.

Emergency session on Bill 317 continues as of new time.

Five Facts on a State of Emergency for Guam’s Public Schools - Office of the Governor of Guam

Senator Chris Barnett statement