GDOE classes resume Monday after 'recent terrorist conduct'
Public schools under the Guam Department of Education will resume classes on Monday, after what officials described as "recent terrorist conduct," referring to online threats that canceled classes at three schools and police visit to a fourth school on Friday.
GDOE, in an announcement on Sunday, said the "academic schedule will proceed as planned, with daily instruction classes set to continue on September 30."
Police Chief Stephen Ignacio and Education Superintendent Erik Swanson, meanwhile, will host a joint press conference at 8:30 a.m. Monday to address the ongoing investigation and collaboration between GDOE and the Guam Police Department concerning "recent terrorist conduct."
"The safety of students and the apprehension of those responsible will be the focal points of the discussion. This meeting is a crucial step in addressing the concerns of the community regarding the safety of its young members and the effectiveness of the measures taken to protect them. It also underscores the commitment of both GDOE and GPD to work together in ensuring a secure learning environment for all students," GDOE said.
Online threats on Thursday prompted a cancellation of Friday classes for John F. Kennedy High School, Simon Sanchez High School, and F. B. Leon Guerrero Middle School, and a Friday morning visit to Okkodo High School by GPD.
GDOE also warns that online threats could result in school expulsion and violation of federal law.
"In light of recent events, it is imperative to recognize the gravity of online threats and their impact on community safety. Dr. Erik Swanson, superintendent, has emphasized the severity of such actions, underscoring that they constitute not only a violation of school policy, resulting in expulsion, but also a breach of federal law," GDOE said.
In collaboration with school administrators and the police, GDOE said it is actively working to ensure the safety of all students, including the implementation of a modified school bag policy, which is designed to enhance the screening process for potential weapons.
On Friday, GDOE announced a ban on backpacks, duffle bags, gym bags, large purses and any other large bags effective Sept. 30.
Comprehensive searches
GDOE on Sunday said additionally, standard policy SOP 1200-002, will be enforced, allowing for comprehensive searches at the discretion of school administrators when deemed necessary.
These measures demonstrate a proactive approach to creating a secure educational environment, GDOE said.
Schools are conducting daily physical assessments of their campuses to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, and they work with GPD and other law enforcement agencies to track down potential online threats and to maintain police presence on campus, the department said.
"Parents/guardians are highly encouraged to visit the GDOE website to view the following documents: Board Policy 379 – acceptable technology use policy as it pertains to GDOE and personal devices either on or off campus as it pertains to student safety; and Standard Operating Procedure 1200-018 Student Conduct Procedural Manual – to understand prohibited behaviors and consequences," GDOE added.
