Representing GovGuam Agencies and Alutiiq Bus Drivers
GFT, AFT Local 1581, exclusively represents the Guam Department of Education Teachers and Support Staff, Guam Memorial Hospital Nurses and Staff, University of Guam Support Staff, Guam Community College Support Staff, Guam Waterworks, Guam Fire Department, Department of Public Health and Social Services Eligibility Specialists, Guam Port Authority, Department of Public Works Bus Drivers, Alutiiq Bus Drivers, Guam Police Department, Customs and Quarantine, Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center and the Department of Corrections, Port Authority of Guam Police I and II, Port Security Guard (Armed), Psychiatric Nurses, Psychiatric Technicians, and Department of Public Works Sanitation Division.
GFT 2025 Calendar of Events
General Membership Meeting February 24, 2025
Guam School Counselors Are Still Short of Staff
Counselors are essential in schools for building a supportive and caring environment, which is considered the key factor in student success and well-being. On Guam, where suicide is the leading cause of non-natural deaths with rates significantly higher per capita...
Certified Teachers and Employment Policies
As educators, we are entrusted with the critical responsibility of shaping the future of our island through the education of our children. It is imperative that we address the issues surrounding teacher certification, rehiring practices, and employment policies that...
Social Security Faireness Act
The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden on January 5, 2025, repeals two provisions—the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO)—that previously reduced Social Security benefits for public-sector...
Addressing the Challenges Facing Our Schools
I have been deeply engaged in the discussions surrounding the potential decommissioning of our schools. After attending numerous data-gathering meetings over the past year, I am left with more questions than answers. The most pressing concern is the specter of...
November 25, 2024 GFT Membership Meeting
A Promising Step Forward for Our Music Programs
I am thrilled to share some promising news with you. Dr. Erik Swanson, our superintendent, has acknowledged the critical role of a strong music program and has committed to expanding it. It's no secret that his first year has been filled with challenges, but he's...
The Silent Burden: Overworked and Underappreciated Government Employees
Government of Guam employees, represented by GFT, are the backbone of our island's public services, ensuring the daily operations that keep Guam running smoothly. However, the reality for many of these dedicated workers is that they are overworked, underappreciated,...
How Much More Are We Going to Ask of Our Teachers?
Teachers Asked to Clean Air Filters At a recent oversight hearing, a suggestion was made that teachers should clean air filters in air conditioning units to prevent freezing issues. This statement, which was dismissive and careless, did not go unnoticed by the Guam...
Practical Strategies for Alleviating Burnout in Various Occupations
Occupational burnout is a significant issue that affects professionals across various fields, leading to emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment. The book “First Aid for Teacher Burnout: How You Can Find Peace and...
GFT General Membership Meeting September 2024
Attention Members! The next General Membership meeting will be on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 6 PM at the GFT Event Hall in Mangilao. This event is open to all members, and refreshments/dinner will be provided. This is an opportunity to meet other union members...