Senators raised concerns over financial controls, procurement practices and long-standing audit findings during a Guam Department of Education oversight that was ongoing as of this publication, pressing agency leaders and members of the Guam Education Board on how they are correcting systemic issues.
Part of the discussion centered on repeat findings flagged in prior audits, including documentation gaps, contract oversight weaknesses and delays in reconciling accounts tied to federal funds. Lawmakers questioned why some deficiencies have persisted across multiple fiscal years despite corrective action plans.
Education officials acknowledged the challenges, pointing to staffing shortages, turnover in key fiscal positions and the complexity of managing large volumes of federal grants under evolving compliance rules. Administrators said the department has increased internal monitoring, updated procedures and is working to fill critical vacancies in finance and procurement offices.
Members of the Guam Education Board said they have strengthened their oversight role, requiring more frequent financial updates and clearer reporting from GDOE leadership. Though the Board Chair Judith Guthertz and Peter Alecxis Ada disagreed with the findings and pointed toward errors of fact, both told senators they are focused on improving transparency and ensuring audit recommendations are formally tracked through completion.
Senators, however, emphasized that stronger systems — not just new policies — are needed to prevent repeat findings. Several lawmakers stressed that weaknesses in internal controls can jeopardize federal funding and delay resources intended for classrooms, student support and school facilities.
Questions also focused on procurement timelines and whether project delays have affected school repairs and campus improvements. GDOE officials said efforts are underway to streamline purchasing processes while staying compliant with government regulations.
Despite the concerns, education leaders said progress has been made in reducing backlogs and improving coordination between program managers and fiscal staff. They pledged continued collaboration with the board and the Legislature to resolve outstanding audit issues.
Lawmakers indicated oversight will continue, with follow-up hearings expected as GDOE implements its corrective action plans.