Update from the Superintendent - February 15, 2024

It seems like school vacations come at just the right time, if not a few days too late. Such is the case now as we had toward the upcoming winter break. Student and staff illness has been steady for the last couple of weeks, sparing no school or department. As we communicated earlier this week, illness has also temporarily disrupted our transportation operations with several drivers out for this reason. Even with substitute drivers pitching in to cover runs, we still were short, hence the consolidated bus runs and cancellations of other runs over the last couple weeks. Many thanks to everyone for their understanding during this time and we hope to return with healthy students and staff after the break.

On Monday, the MSAD #51 Board voted to enter into an option agreement to secure another half-acre of abutting land that would add to the 2.3 acres purchased by voters last June. This additional parcel would improve the design of the school and ensure expansion options for the facility, if needed, down the road. This option agreement must be approved by voters as part of a complete bond package on a new school project. To learn more about the status of this project, please refer to last week's newsletter.

After the break, I will continue with the Science of Reading series. If you missed the first segment, check it out here.

My best to all families and staff as we all take a mid-winter break next week. Maybe we'll see some snow soon!