Education officials request $47 million in supplemental funding for Fiscal Year 2025

As the new fiscal year begins today, the Guam Department of Education faced tough choices on how to manage its FY2025 budget of $256 million, with needs already exceeding available funds.

“After 5.6 million for power is expended, lights go out,” said Guam Education Board Chair, Mary Okada.

The department is working with $47 million less than requested by the legislature, resulting in major shortfalls in supplies and materials.

“I don’t know how we’re going to get schools prepared for FY26 if we only have $25,000 to spend,” said GEB Vice-Chair Angel Sablan. 

On Monday, the Guam Education Board held a special meeting, with discussions centering on requesting supplemental funding. 

Okada says more on where the additional money would go.

“Of this 47 million—ten million are specifically identified for facilities and maintenance and capital projects that include safety and security,” said Okada. 

But amid competing requests also before the legislature, and despite attempts to secure funding for facilities and maintenance and safety, GEB Vice-Chair Angel Sablan acknowledged that GDOE is unlikely to get the whole of its additional funding request.  

Sablan also requested an update from GDOE’s financial team on lapse funding and the status of American Rescue Plan funds. 

To note, Monday was the last day to obligate ARP funds. GDOE said it plans to request to extend its liquidation period for any obligated ARP funds to March 2026.