The Guam Community College isn’t where you’d usually find middle schoolers in class, but as of Monday, that’s changed.

After a rocky start to the new school year, Science Is Fun and Awesome Learning Academy Charter School has partnered with gcc, officially kicking off classes at the mangilao campus, which will serve as its temporary home.

Ron Ravela, SIFA’s Director of Planning, Compliance, and Research, says the move sets the stage for what’s to come.

“We’re looking beyond and getting our kids ready for a future that will involve higher education being here at GCC,” said Ravela.

Now on day two, the SIFA Manta Rays are finding their rhythm, with the college environment already sparking curiosity in students.

“We’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback from the students. They’re all excited, like, 'Where’s the crime lab?’ Honestly, that’s the kind of excitement we want to see. You know, to get into the crime lab, you want to kind of focus on science. You know what SIFA stands for—Science is Fun and awesome,” said Maria Benton-Wood, Administrator for Student Affairs at SIFA.

And despite some students transferring amid the uncertainty, Ravela confirmed enrollment is at capacity, just over 300.

Looking ahead, he says the search for a permanent home continues, with an update on a request for inquiry released last month.

“We finished phase one, we’re now in phase 2,” said Ravela.

For now, SIFA’s lease with GCC runs through the end of the year, with the option to go month to month depending on the procurement process.

And after a shaky road to get here, SIFA leaves this message with the community.

“SIFA remains strong and we remain committed true to our mission,” said Frea Vidallon, Executive Office Liason with SIFA.