After months of delays, a new move aims to push the Simon Sanchez High School project forward, despite an ongoing procurement protest. Here’s a full breakdown of the matter.

Moving forward with a new home for the Sharks, over the weekend, the Office of the Governor issuing a statement detailing the Department of Public Works’ determination to proceed with the award of the contract for a new Sanchez High, a move DPW says is necessary to protect the substantial interests of the Government of Guam.

They say that the determination has been sent to the Office of Public Accountability in accordance with applicable law. This means, in plain terms, if the OPA gives the green light, the determination would allow for the project to proceed while a protest is pending.

It comes on the heels of second ranked bidder in the project, General Pacific Services’, appeal with the OPA in January, arguing that DPW failed to respond to its procurement protests concerning the project.

As KUAM previously reported, the project has been stalled amid GPS' procurement protest, triggering an automatic stay—with the demolition and groundbreaking put on hold back last November.

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero stating, “This action is about our students and their families. Every delay has meant more lost instructional time, more disruption, and more strain on families and educators alike. This determination helps move us closer to what our students deserve—safe classrooms, full school days, and stability.”

Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio also adding, "This determination makes the government responsive and responsible. It respects protections provided under Guam procurement law while recognizing the real and continuing impact delay has on our students. Our duty is to advance solutions while the process continues.”

The Governor’s Office says both GDOE and Attorney General Doug Moylan concurred in the determination.

In the meantime, acting Guam Department of Education superintendent, Dr. Judi Won Pat, recently noting progress with a temporary Simon Sanchez campus adjacent to F.B. Leon Guerrero Middle School on Guam Housing Corporation property—with $8 million already deposited by FEMA for the construction of the project.

While a bill allowing for $16.4 million to be used for the financing and pre-development stage expenses for the Simon Sanchez High School project has been sent to the governor’s desk for signature.