Quitugua, Liwag move to Guam Dept. of Education

Long-time Public School System leaders Jackie Quitugua and Dr. Rizalina Liwag will be leaving the Northern Marianas to work at the Guam Department of Education.

Incoming Superintendent of GDOE Dr. Judith Won Pat announced her new senior leadership team, noting that Jackie Quitugua will be the Deputy of Educational Support and Community Learning, and Dr. Rizalina Liwag will serve as the next Deputy of Curriculum and Instruction. 

“This dynamic team brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and innovative thinking to the Department of Education. Each member’s unique background enriches the department’s capacity to meet the diverse needs of students and the community. Their collective focus on accountability, student-centered practices, and community engagement positions the department for significant progress and transformation,” Dr. Won Pat said. 

Dr. Liwag is currently the Senior Director of the Office of Curriculum and Instructional Services and Support, and Quitugua serves as the Senior Director of Student Support Services at CNMI PSS. Who will fill their positions upon their departure has not been announced. 

According to GDOE, “Quitugua has dedicated over 40 years to public education. Starting as a classroom teacher in Guam, she has held various leadership roles, including education specialist and Senior Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the CNMI Public School System. She is passionate about improving student outcomes across all dimensions and has championed initiatives that enhance student sports, physical fitness, and health and wellness. Ms. Quitugua’s career reflects her commitment to culturally responsive practices and collaborative problem-solving, emphasizing a holistic approach to student success. She has worked with school leaders to provide balanced leadership training for school improvement by conducting instructional review, observation, and feedback for and by teachers.”

GDOE explained that Dr. Liwag “offers 30 years of leadership experience as a teacher, principal, and senior director, with recognized expertise in curriculum, instruction, and assessment. She has successfully led initiatives such as developing a K–12 data center and the Accountability School Report Card, all aimed at improving student achievement. Her strategic alignment of curriculum and professional learning reflects her dedication to equity and continuous improvement in education.”