Galvin Deleon Guerrero
GALVIN Sablan Deleon Guerrero, a longtime educator and independent candidate for CNMI delegate to Congress, has issued a strong response to news that the U.S. Department of Education has slashed federal funding to the CNMI Public School System by 24% — a loss of over $4.5 million for the upcoming school year.
“This is not just an ordinary budget cut — it is a direct hit to our classrooms, our teachers, and our children’s future,” said Deleon Guerrero. “In my 30 years in education, this announcement breaks my heart, and I know exactly how devastating this will be for students, educators, and our entire community.”
As reported, the cut affects several key federal initiatives that support athletics, school improvement, student competitions, college and career readiness, technical education, mental health, family engagement, literacy and math development skills, and private school support.
“Families here in the Marianas are already hurting, and sadly, they will get hit even harder by this reckless cut to our public school system — losing vital programs, resources, and support that our students and educators depend on every single day,” Deleon Guerrero said.
In response, he outlined a three-point plan to address the issue if elected to Congress:
• Engage with the U.S. Department of Education
“I will push for a full explanation and fight for the immediate restoration of these congressionally approved funds — working closely with our partners at PSS and communicating consistently with the U.S. Department of Education as it restructures its federal education priorities. Our students deserve nothing less,” he said.
• Strengthen partnerships
“I will pledge to assist our education leaders in pursuing new grants and alternative funding sources by being on the frontlines, working with federal agencies and national philanthropic organizations to diversify revenue and support for PSS, NMC, and NMTech.
For now, I continue to work closely with our PSS partners to ensure continued services to our students,” Deleon Guerrero said.
• Ensure transparency and public engagement
“I will fight to make sure our community is informed every step of the way and has a seat on the House Education Committee to shape solutions that protect and improve our schools and educational institutions. I’m not going to be quiet about what’s happening in DC, especially when it involves federal funds that impact families,” he said.
“I firmly believe education has the power to improve lives, and here in the Marianas, we need to treat it not just as a priority, but as a lifeline for our families, our economy, and our future. Every student — no matter their village, background, or ability — deserves access to quality education and the resources to succeed,” said Deleon Guerrero.
“And the unfortunate thing is no one in DC seems to care enough to say something about it — let alone do something about it.
“This moment calls for leadership that understands education not just as a policy issue, but as a personal calling.
“I will be that voice in Congress — collaborative, informed, and always fighting for our students, fighting for our families, fighting for us.”
