Just two months after Chief Brodie Elementary officially closed, one local charter school is hoping to make it its new home.

Science is Fun and Awesome Learning Academy Charter School, or SIFA, is eyeing the Tamuning campus after recently vacating its Tiyan facility, as part of an agreement in its ongoing legal dispute with Landlord Eagles Land Holdings, LLC.

The matter came up during Tuesday’s Guam Education Board meeting, where some members raised concerns about SIFA’s past rent dispute.

“My number one question: The payment,” said GEB member Peter Ada.

Other members echoing the concern, mindful of GDOE’s financial challenges.

Pushing back, SIFA Attorney Mike Phillips, insisted the charter school doesn’t owe any back rent.

“I expressed to the members of the board–because that was a big concern that they don’t pay rent—not only are they able to pay rent, but they’re solvent, there’s no court judgement coming down, there’s not even a court case asking that they pay back rent–not at all, just that they leave, and they worked that out,” said Phillips. 

Board member Dr. Judith Guthertz also raised concerns, including the legal process to move forward.

“I know the superintendent has intended to put out an RFP—at our request–to see what kind of responses we get. And that RFP can also be an opportunity for SIFA to submit a proposal,” said Guthertz.

Phillips says different options are on the table, including a possible interim use of the campus while legislation and administrative steps are sorted out.

Meanwhile, other board members emphasized the need to engage the Tamuning community, which has shown interest in converting the Chief Brodie campus into a Tamuning middle school. 

And with the new school year nearing, Phillips assures SIFA students will have a place to go.

The board will continue discussions on July 29.