It was just over a year ago that the Guam Department of Education’s head start program was on the brink of collapse. Federal officials issuing a dire warning: fix the program’s deficiencies within 90 days or lose both federal funding and the program itself. It was a crisis that hit close to home for then-acting Headstart director Angelina Lape. For 26 years, she had dedicated her career to the division.

But even more personal - she was a proud product of Headstart.

“Headstart is my earliest memory of school, and that’s one of the reasons why I was so motivated that we can’t lose this program; we have to do everything we can," she said.

Under Lape’s determined leadership, the program found its footing again. Lape working tirelessly alongside her team to turn the ship around, eventually securing funding and ensuring the program’s future for Guam’s youngest learners.

“Now we can move beyond this corrective action period, we’ve met all the requirements, our funding is safe, our pre-schoolers will continue to benefit from Headstart for years to come," she said.

But despite her heroic efforts, Lape faced another challenge soon after, as she was passed over for the permanent Headstart director position in April. The decision leaving many members of the Guam Education Board shocked and Lape visibly emotional.

Board member Peter Alexcis Ada announced on Facebook Live, "The ship that you were riding in, Ms. Lape, back from many years, began to sink. You came and brought it right back up with everyone else to stand behind you. I’m going to look at you straight in the eye, Ms. Lape–from the bottom of our hearts,  all of our board members–thank you, thank you so much for what you have done.”

But Lape’s journey didn’t end there. The position opening up yet again after the person who accepted the job declined it. Lape eventually getting the title to match the work she already put in.  She said, “Regardless of what happened in the interview process, at the end of the day, I felt, and they felt, that I deserved the position and I could do a good job moving forward.”

Now, Lape is focused on the work ahead. As she settles into her new role, she’s still pushing for improvements, including playground upgrades across 20 schools.

As for her next big challenge? Adjusting to Congress’ updated Headstart rules and regulations.