The revolving door at the Guam Department of Education

Yes&Know By Aline Yamashita

When I first taught at the Guam Department of Education in 1978, the director was Elaine Cadigan. She was always approachable and had a smile on her face. Getting a foot in the door for a job was challenging, but Director Cadigan welcomed me. I remain grateful to this day.

There was Gloria Nelson, whose voice boomed across rooms. She probably believed there was power in sound. The late former director was at the helm when Section 29B of the Organic Act was passed, transferring the oversight of education from the governor to the government.

My mom, Lorraine Yamashita, served as chair of the education board during the administration of Gov. Joseph Ada and Lt. Gov. Frank Blas from 1987 to 1994. Joseph DeTorres was the director then. He didn’t last long. I can still see his desk surrounded by stacks of paperwork. Once, I arrived late for a meeting. He looked at me and said, “Maybe next time you’ll be on time.” I replied, “Maybe next time, a big truck will not hit me.”

There was Anita Sukola, who served as director of education from 1988 to 1991. A teacher at heart, she empathized with the challenges we faced. A lawyer, as well, she was equally committed to following procedures, rules and regulations.  She later left the department and was eventually confirmed as one of our judges.

There was Robert Klitzkie, who served as director from 1994 to 1995. Tall, firm and unwavering. He  expected law and order. “The Art of War” was one of his favorite references. We eventually reminded him that he was no longer in the Guam Police Department or Department of Corrections. We were educators—teaching students and supporting teaching communities.

There was Roland Taimanglo. As the director, he strengthened our financial and operations units while I focused on the curricular programs and performance evaluation. We were both deeply disheartened when we were dismissed and banned from all campuses. Then-Gov. Carl Gutierrez didn't trust us. Still, the strides we had made spoke for themselves.

There was Luis Reyes, who served as education superintendent from 2006 to 2008. A man of great heart, he supported his organization and had the stamina to get things done. After being shot by a gang member and left paraplegic Mr. Reyes remained strong in his chair, steadfast in his support. 

There was Juan Flores, who advocated for students as superintendent from 2003 to 2006. He was a principal at Harmon Loop and then piloted site-based management at Inarajan Elementary. He later served as superintendent of Catholic Schools and is now the principal of Career Tech High Academy

Charter School. 

There was Bunny Sgambelluri, who served briefly in 2008. His PowerPoint presentation to the board earned him the needed six votes. They appreciated his fresh outlook. He beat me, and when I went to congratulate him, he looked at me and said, “It should have been you.” I nodded.

Years later, a board member shared that I had submitted documents on green paper. Perhaps someone made copies of submitted documents on green paper, but it wasn’t me. I took the process very seriously.

There was Nerissa Underwood, who led the education department from July 2008 to July 2011. A strong advocate for STEM programs, she championed hands-on learning opportunities. The Home of the Geckoes boasted hands-on learning opportunities. As a mother of three children, she understood the need to tailor lessons to best realize learning. As a researcher, Superintendent Nerissa made data-driven decisions to serve the best interests of the school system. She later went on to serve a term as senator.

There was Jon Fernandez, who returned to Guam to serve as education superintendent for a decade. Before his appointment, many believed the constant turnover of directors prevented our school system from reaching excellence. His 10-year tenure, backed by the full support of the Board of Education, showed otherwise. After his departure, familiar challenges resurfaced. He left behind unresolved issues related to facilities, the Home of the Sharks reconstruction, teacher recruitment and retention, special education and overall steady student achievement.

Several others held the position briefly–some confirmed, others not. Franklin Quitugua was at the helm a couple of times. Rosa Palomo served briefly but was not confirmed. Mike Reidy, Rosie Tainatongo served for a heartbeat. Judi Won Pat served for a few months before Kenneth Eric Swanson took over.

We thank Superintendent Swanson for his effort and wish him the very best.

As for who comes next, we’ll find out soon enough, perhaps even before this is published. May the next leader bring cultural competency, collaborative leadership and a student-centered approach, joyful and committed to building bright futures for all students. We pray.

Aline Yamashita is a mom, a teacher and former senator. She served in the 31st and 32nd Guam Legislatures. Send feedback to  aline4families@gmail.com.

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