Guam Department of Education Superintendent Erik Swanson is urging the U.S. Department of Education to reverse a recent funding policy change that could delay critical school projects.

In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Swanson warned that the shift to a reimbursement-based payment system is jeopardizing the completion of ARP-funded projects, including structural repairs and safety upgrades across Guam's public schools.

The full stated,

Dear Secretary McMahon,

We write to you with deep concern regarding the sudden change to the reimbursement process that jeopardizes the timely completion of critical projects. These ARP funded projects are essential for the health and safety of thousands of students in Guam’s public schools. 

As leaders responsible for ensuring safe and operational learning environments, we urge your immediate attention and assistance in preventing a crisis that could compromise school openings for the 2025-2026 school year.

Under the current process, we are required to use local funds to pay contractors upfront before being reimbursed. However, Guam does not have the financial capacity to front millions of dollars, especially during this late liquidation period. 

The inability to draw federal funds in a timely manner means that essential projects—such as structural repairs, health and safety upgrades, and compliance measures— are at risk of being delayed or abandoned. These projects were carefully planned and contracted under existing agreements, with the expectation that uninterrupted funding would allow for their timely completion. 

A sudden disruption to payments could result in unfinished work, unsafe conditions, and schools that cannot open on schedule.

This is not just a financial matter—it is a matter of student welfare and educational quality. Our children deserve to learn in schools that meet basic health and safety standards. If we cannot access the necessary funds in time, the consequences will be felt by thousands of students, teachers, and families who rely on these facilities.

We respectfully request reconsideration of this change in process to allow for a more viable approach that does not place an undue financial burden on Guam. We urge the Department of Education to provide flexibility in fund disbursement during this critical period, ensuring that federally allocated resources serve their intended purpose without creating unnecessary obstacles.

We appreciate your leadership and commitment to education, and we hope for a swift resolution that prioritizes the well-being of our students. We welcome any opportunity to discuss this further and explore possible solutions.

Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your response.