Senator pushes for controversial school inspection amendment

In a recent government meeting, Senator San Nicolas proposed an amendment allowing the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) to operate schools awaiting inspection for the 2024-2025 school year. The amendment stipulates that schools with pending inspections could continue to function with the approval of both the GDOE superintendent and the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services.

During discussions, Senator St. Augustine expressed support for the amendment, highlighting the superintendent's desire for collaborative approval from public health to ensure safety in school operations. However, Speaker Turlahi raised concerns, noting that both the GDOE and public health had previously indicated they would not operate schools that had failed inspections, rendering the amendment ineffective.

Senator Perez echoed these concerns, stating that the superintendent had previously refrained from using the authority granted to him due to liability issues associated with operating schools that did not meet inspection standards. This sentiment was reinforced by multiple senators who questioned the practicality of the amendment, given the stringent nature of school inspections.

Senator San Nicolas defended the amendment, arguing that the current inspection process may not accurately reflect a school's safety and that flexibility is necessary to address the needs of schools. Despite the discussions, the amendment ultimately passed without objection, indicating a willingness among some lawmakers to explore alternative operational frameworks for schools facing inspection delays.

The meeting underscored ongoing debates about school safety, regulatory compliance, and the balance between educational needs and public health standards in Guam.