Seven applicants vie for GDOE superintendent post

Seven contenders are in the running to lead the Guam Department of Education. The agency confirmed it received seven applications for superintendent before Friday’s 5 p.m. deadline. 

During a livestream accountability session, GDOE initially counted six sealed envelopes. But shortly after, spokesperson Damen Borja clarified a seventh application had in fact been received and properly timestamped.

The applications will remain sealed until September 29, when the superintendent search committee—chaired by Maria Gutierrez—begins its official review. Board members say they do not know who the applicants are, though candidates may publicly disclose if they applied.

Interviews are scheduled for October 13 through 18, with a final selection expected at the October 21 board meeting. The new superintendent would take office January 1, following the departure of Dr. Erik Swanson, who is stepping down at year’s end due to health concerns.

The search process comes under added scrutiny after a legal opinion barred current board members from applying, citing conflicts of interest under Guam law.