The long-awaited groundbreaking ceremony for the new Simon Sanchez High School campus in Yigo is set for March 18, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone for the Sharks community, which has been advocating for a new facility for over a decade. According to a press release from the Office of the Governor, this transition from concept to reality represents a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This has been a long time coming. The students of Simon Sanchez deserve a campus that reflects their spirit, talent, and potential. This groundbreaking is our promise turning into action.” The new campus will feature 87 classrooms, a modern administration building, and a redesigned main entrance, all aimed at creating a conducive learning environment.
Transformative Features of the New Campus
The project, awarded to Core Tech International Corporation, is set to transform the educational landscape for the community. The new design includes three wings dedicated to classrooms, allowing for more space for instruction, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Additionally, the campus will boast a full-sized gymnasium, a spacious cafeteria, and a dedicated JROTC classroom to support leadership development.
The new auditorium will elevate school performances and ceremonies, further enriching the students’ educational experience. The release from the Governor’s office also highlighted broader improvements, including updated civil, electrical, telecommunications, and mechanical systems, enhanced athletic facilities, and expanded parking.
Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio also shared his excitement, stating, “So many students, alumni, and their families have waited for this day, and it is rewarding to see this project finally moving from talk to transformation.” He emphasized that the new campus symbolizes opportunity, dignity, and a promising future for students.
Background and Community Impact
The old Simon Sanchez High School campus has been closed since Typhoon Mawar caused health and safety concerns in 2023. Since then, students have been attending classes in a double session at John F. Kennedy High School in Tamuning. The new facility is designed to accommodate up to 2,000 students, addressing the growing needs of the community.
The initiative follows a thorough evaluation in accordance with Public Law 37-22 and the MA KÅHAT Act, allowing the project to progress into the demolition phase. The community has rallied around this project since it was first proposed in 2013, making the groundbreaking ceremony a significant moment of celebration and hope.
The new Simon Sanchez High School campus is not just a promise fulfilled but a step towards providing an enriched educational experience that reflects the aspirations of its students and the community at large.
