Dr. Kenneth Swanson gives first State of Education Address as superintendent

Amid a delayed start to the school year, sanitary inspections and re-inspections, a budget shortfall, and a vote to fund operations and maintenance, the Guam Department of Education has undoubtedly gone through its fair share of highs and lows. Still, at the core is a commitment to educating our island’s youth. Education leaders addressed today how they’re working to keep that promise. 

57% of public school stakeholders are satisfied with overall GDOE leadership. That’s been the result for the past two school years – it's a goal the agency has not been able to meet, for now.

“That target line is 70%--we've got to get to this year. As of last spring, it's 57%, so there’s work to do there.” Dr. Swanson delivered his first State of Education Address Tuesday afternoon from the Tiyan headquarters. More than 16,000 parents, students, administrators and education staff surveyed GovGuam's largest agency.

Swanson admitted while graduation rates rose from 90.7% to 91.3%, overall enrollment dropped by 1,326 students.

Among the other downfalls, GDOE now has less than 261 employees, and total revenues is less by $12.5 million. “What can I say?" he commented. "This doesn’t run for free.”

The superintendent highlighted how 79% of parents agree that their child’s school is safe. This after multiple threats were made this school year toward several campuses. He added that 83% of parents agree their school is supportive of their child’s learning.

Additionally, 70% agree the school facility is clean and in good condition. That’s after the school year was delayed for most until they could meet the safety standards required by Public Health. For now, he is aware more work needs to be done.

Swanson said,  “GDOE parents agree that school facilities are clean and in good repair, and we’re at the target line at 70%, and that was no small task.” 

Swanson noted the data presented was gathered from School Years 2023 and 2024.