Consolidation Update
May, 2008
On May 7th I received a letter from the Commissioner of Education informing the School Board that she approved MSAD #15’s request to file an alternative plan in lieu of continuing reorganization discussions with Union 29, which is composed of Poland, Minot, and Mechanic Falls.
As you know, MSAD #15 filed the intent to consolidate with Union 29 in December. After that application was sent, Union 29 asked the Commissioner if Minot, Poland, and Mechanic Falls could consolidate into its own Regional School District. Because MSAD #15 had no other viable consolidation partner, we also sent a letter asking that Gray and New Gloucester remain alone as a school district. We were placed “on hold” pending the Commissioner’s decision.
With the Commissioner’s approval, our next step is the creation of an Alternative Plan, which will outline what MSAD #15 will do to reorganize administrative functions, duties and non-instructional personnel in system administration, transportation, special education, and facilities/maintenance in order to reduce costs. We must document that our spending in those areas will not have an adverse impact on our instructional program. The Alternative Plan will be sent to the Commissioner for approval in June. Regardless of the mandate from the State to lower expenditures, the 08-09 school budget that will go to voters on June 5th and June 10th reflects the Board’s desire to provide a quality education while keeping costs down.
This past year has been full of uncertainty regarding the future of MSAD #15’s work. It is helpful to know where MSAD #15 stands so that we can continue our focus on continuing improvement. During the consolidation talks, one pleasure has been the opportunity to tell other communities about our terrific students, staff and communities. I am proud of the work that our children do every day at MSAD #15. We could not do it, however, without your support. We thank you for everything you do for our schools.
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