Two more public schools clear inspection, progress made on others

The Department of Public Health and Social Services has approved two additional schools for in-person learning after recent health and sanitation inspections. Jose Rios Middle School in Piti and Pedro C. Lujan Elementary School in Barrigada were deemed ready to reopen on Tuesday, September 3. The announcement was made by the office of the governor of Guam in a release, on Friday, August 30.

A SORT team is addressing maintenance issues at Jose Rios Middle School. Photo courtesy of the office of the governor of Guam.

The governor's School Opening Readiness Team (SORT) in collaboration with the Guam Department of Education, worked to address numerous issues at both campuses, ranging from electrical repairs to facility maintenance.

At Jose Rios Middle School, the SORT team resolved longstanding electrical panel issues, enabling the restoration of air conditioning and ventilation systems. Additional work included debris removal, classroom cleaning, painting, restroom repairs, and grounds maintenance. The Port Authority of Guam, DISID, Veterans Affairs Office, and GTA provided significant labor and equipment support.

At P.C. Lujan Elementary School, improvements focused on fixing doors, ventilation, water fountains, plumbing, and removing debris. Contributions came from the Guam Contractors Licensing Board, Marianas Fusion Center, and Guam Housing Corporation.

In a release, acting Governor Joshua F. Tenorio said, “With the expertise and manpower from various agencies, we are addressing longstanding issues, such as the electrical panel at Jose Rios Middle School, which has been a primary concern for years. As more schools reopen, we will continue to allocate resources to those that remain closed and work closely with the GDOE to ensure as many campuses open in the safest and fastest way possible.”

A SORT team member repairs a water fountain at P.C. Lujan Elementary School. Photo courtesy of the office of the governor of Guam.

Progress on remaining schools

At a SORT meeting in Adelup on Friday, August 30, agencies assigned to public schools provided updates to the acting governor about the ongoing work still pending at various public schools.

Finegayan Elementary School, Dededo: Passed inspection on Thursday, August 29, with 29 demerits equivalent with a "C" but still faces issues such as a damaged electrical panel that has been removed and standing water that needs addressing. Students will also return to their campus on Tuesday, September 3.

Upi Elementary School, Yigo: Focus areas include lighting, ventilation, water supply, restrooms, and building structure. Ongoing repairs are expected to reduce demerits from 44 to 26.

Daniel L. Perez Elementary School, Yigo: Concentrating on air quality, window repairs, and flooring. Current focus is on plumbing and safety hazards, with progress expected next week.

Chief Brodie Memorial Elementary School, Tamuning: Efforts are underway to resolve air conditioning and air quality issues. Additional cleaning supplies are needed.

Capt. H.B. Price Elementary School, Barrigada: Recent work includes general maintenance, vegetation removal, and door repairs. Electrical expertise and further HVAC work are still required.

Juan Q. San Miguel Elementary School, Toto: Ongoing challenges with plumbing and lighting persist, and more materials are needed for continued improvements.

Benevente Middle School, Dededo: Repair work on fencing, restrooms, and locker rooms is ongoing. Electrical and plumbing repairs are a priority, with volunteer support being organized.

Inalåhan Middle School, Inalåhan: Facing significant shortages in skilled labor and materials, especially for plumbing and carpentry. Classroom renovations are progressing.

Southern High School, Sånta Rita-Sumai: Plumbing repairs are a critical need, with ongoing work on water fountains and sinks to reduce health hazards and demerits. mbj