Guam Department of Education campuses are more than just buildings, many are historically significant and hold deep emotional connections for those who have walked through their halls.

It's why the discussion of school decommissioning has been a sensitive topic, especially for those who fear the future of the schools they consider home.

“I’m from Tiyan High School–I just wanted to voice something as a student—who has heard that perhaps my school won’t be the school I’m graduating from. Tiyan High school is my home,” said one Tiyan student.

This young student at the Home of the Titans voiced her concerns about the impact rearrangements could have on her school community.

“My friends and I want to go to school to have a good time and learn. Students enjoy their friend's classes, and they trust their teachers and make connections. I just feel like, as a student, you’re taking that away from us when you tear them apart from their second home,” they said.

In response, GDOE Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum and Instructional Improvement Joe Sanchez explained in a community briefing with the Lagu region that decommissioning high schools is not currently being considered but nothing is decided yet.

Still, there are ongoing discussions about realigning attendance areas and maybe possible accommodations for graduates.

“If there is a realignment in attendance areas, there will be a discussion with families about the impact–and on a case-by-case basis, there can be some accommodation–I can’t promise anything…but it’s not unusual for accommodations to make for graduating seniors, 5th grade students, and 8th grade students. So that really has to come up when the time comes,” said Sanchez.

Regarding the concern that teachers and school staff might lose their jobs, Sanchez said, “If a school is decommissioned, the intent is not for any individual to lose their job. They will still be employed in GDOE; they will just have to move to another school where there is a vacancy.”