SIMON A. SANCHEZ HIGH SCHOOL
331 N. Marine Corps Drive Tamuning, GU 96913 (JFKHS Campus) | (671)653-2313
Facebook: Simon A. Sanchez High School Instagram: @sshs_official
331 N. Marine Corps Drive Tamuning, GU 96913 (JFKHS Campus) | (671)653-2313
The Guam Department of Education (GDOE) announces the implementation of Guam Public Law 37-93, which requires the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as agraduation requirement beginning with the Class of 2026 (School Year 2025-2026).
In accordance with the law, all graduating seniors from GDOE and Academy Charter High Schools must complete the FAFSA to fulfill graduation requirements. The FAFSA is a federal application that helps students access financial aid – including grants, loans, and work-study programs – for college or career training. This requirement is intended to ensure that students are aware of and have access to financial resources that support their postsecondary goals.
To support students and families, School Counselor Teams and Principals will partner with students and parents/guardians to understand the new graduation requirement and provide support and assistance to complete the FAFSA process. Additional support will be available through our community partners – the University of Guam (UOG) and Guam Community College (GCC), both of which will offer on-site FAFSA assistance, access to computers, and help with completing the application.
“Between all internal processes and our higher education partners, we are opening new doors and opportunities for our students.” Said Dr. Kenneth Erik. K. Swanson, Superintendent of the Guam Department of Education.
GDOE is committed to complying with the new requirement and ensuring that all students are supported in meeting it.
GDOE Updates Protocol on Nicotine and Vaping Violations in Schools
Tiyan, Guam — Due to a recent increase in nicotine and vaping violations across Guam Department of Education (GDOE) schools, GDOE is notifying students, parents, and guardians that the Guam Police Department (GPD) will respond to all Calls for Service involving minors using or possessing nicotine products on school campuses.
This action follows guidance issued by the Chief of Police after school administrators presented data demonstrating the chronic nature of vaping violations among students and the need for enforcement of the Youth Protection Act of 2017 (Public Law 34-01).
Effective immediately, when a student is adjudicated by school administration and found in violation of GDOE policy, the student’s parent or guardian will be contacted and required to report to the school. Upon confirmation, GDOE will initiate a Call for Service. GPD officers will confiscate the device, document the incident, issue a Notice to Appear to the Juvenile Section, and forward the case to the Office of the Attorney General.
Nicotine violations are now included among behaviors requiring mandatory contact with GPD under GDOE Student Discipline SOP 1200-018.
GDOE urges parents and guardians to discuss the health risks and legal consequences of vaping and nicotine use with their children.
For more information, please contact the Public Information Officer Damen Michael A. Borja at 671 -488-7173 or email at daborja@gdoe.net.
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