Schools Around the World – Tamuning, Guam

The Guam public school system is modeled after the U.S. system. There are 38 total public schools – 27 elementary, 7 middle, and 4 high schools. The island also has 22 private or independent schools that are operated by religious organizations. In addition, there is one high school, two middle schools, and two elementary schools on military bases for dependents of military personnel stationed on Guam.

John F. Kennedy High School

The school closest to our condo is John F. Kennedy High School in the village of Tamuning. Its central location makes it accessible to students from across the island. Their mascot is the Islanders and there are about 1,800 students, making it the largest public school on Guam.

They have this beautiful mural on the front of the building and I loved the play on the words from John F. Kennedy’s 1961 Inaugural Address.

Calendar, Curriculum and Uniforms

Their school calendar is very similar to our schedule in Colorado. They start in early August and get out middle/end of May. Along with meeting U.S. standards, schools also have Chamorro language and culture woven into their curriculum. Students must complete a course in Guam History either in middle or high school in order to graduate. Students are also required to wear uniforms.

Rise and Shine

Something Alexis found extremely shocking was their start time. This particular school starts at 6:35am! I found the below schedule on their website. I couldn’t believe they ended at 11:50am. I read that school schedules can fluctuate throughout the year due to the bus schedules.

An early start time is common amongst all public schools on Guam. The reason for this is a mix of bus logistics and the island’s climate. Guam’s tropical heat builds quickly in the afternoon. Starting early ensures students are finished before the hottest afternoon hours. Most schools end by 1:30 – 2:00pm. This leaves the afternoon free for family and community time, which is highly valued in the Chamorro culture.

Schools on Guam face issues of overcrowding, the need for facility upgrades, and limited resources. Their ratings aren’t as strong as schools in the mainland U.S., but their community involvement is exceptional.