Congressman James Moylan raised urgent concerns before U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon during a House Committee on Education and the Workforce hearing.

Moylan questioned how the Trump Administration plans to invest in American students in outlying areas, where federal roles and responsibilities differ from those in the states.

This line of questioning comes as the Guam Department of Education faces a mounting financial crisis.

An estimated $26 million is needed to complete refurbishment projects at George Washington High School and F.B. Leon Guerrero Middle School. In addition, tens of millions are still owed to contractors, and 92 vendor contracts related to the American Rescue Plan funds.

The U.S. Department of Education has also recently denied GDOE’s latest request to extend the liquidation period for its ARP funds.

Moylan also pressed McMahon on the shortage of special education specialists, the need for infrastructure investment, and improving academic competitiveness. 

“As you aware, Guam often struggles with the needed infrastructure upgrades–our storms and the cost of getting materials to the island are tremendous, especially with our public schools, it's very costly. So, how does the administration another one we can discuss, plan to address critical issues like these, ensuring that we can make our educational institutions in the outlying areas world-class, like all American institutions should be,” said Moylan.  

“I really do look forward to our meeting. I think I can address things better by sitting down and having a better understanding of your issues,” said McMahon. 

Meantime, the Guam Legislature has requested a full financial report from GDOE, due today, to help guide the next steps forward.