001United States. Laura, are you all set with attendance? Welcome back, Jody. I'll entertain a motion to approve the schoolboard minutes from July 31st, 2025. >> So, any emissions? All those in favor? >> All those opposed? Anybody abstaining? Ava and Jody abstaining. Okay. Uh, presentation by H RHR uh, Smith for our financial audit. >> Good evening. >> Can you hear me now? I'm Ron Smith, principal Smith and Company. Can you hear me now? >> I'm Ron Smith, principal RHR Smith & Company. My first order of business is to apologize. I was supposed to be here back in March, you know, to uh deliver this presentation statutoily by law. You know, we're supposed to have like a exit conference with a finance committee or a board. I've uh had some health issues. I didn't want to pass
002the obligation off to any one of my staff people. So, so I asked Crystal if she could bear with me and wait and kind of kill two birds with one stone and tell you about where we're starting jumping off in 25's audit. You know, pretty much where we ended 24 and 24 financially district uh ended in great shape. Your your balance forward from the year before was about 1.8. It's about $2.5 million on 63024. You guys used about $900,000 that for a variety of reasons and budget relief being the biggest one of them. brings you below the statutory limit. uh that that rise in fund balance was predominantly due to you not spending all your money and that really has been the trend with a lot of school systems in in in that we do
003in Maine and Vermont and it's a pretty fair statement I say when we do them because we do twothirds of all the school systems in the entire state you know so that's a pretty good benchmark to compare it to you know but we are in I was actually just left another school system uh today this is my fourth school system that I've audited 6 630 25 we're seeing a lot of those expenses starting to dry up you know now you know in some of the you know the hot topic areas special ed transportation maintenance facilities those things those big balances that are getting returned to your bottom line to reinvest the next year 25 is going to be a year that I think that that's really where they're going to start to get level I'm
004not sure what what reality is after co but we're starting to see that you you know, level off here right now. So, um, uh, so that's one thing that I'll say. The one thing which is really a good situation to be in, you know, so financially really nothing, you know, that I see, you know, there that would cause me to raise my hand and say concern. Uh, one thing which is really a thing that I raise my hand and say we want to do something about it, which is a good uh, position to be in is your food service program. You've got a pretty hefty fund balance. You've spent a lot of that for infrastructure needs in 25. you've got some more budgeted for 26. We just want to make sure that you don't get
005that letter from the state that says you still have too much. So to come up with a plan, you know, through uh you know, through you know, this audit and restrict and earmark. I actually had the pleasures of talking to your finance committee before this meeting and and and there's some uh certainly some options, you know, that we can bring before the board uh later on, you know, this year, you know, to to to get down to if that becomes another issue. But nothing I'd be aware about. That's a good situation to be in because if everybody remembers, food service wasn't exactly a profit-making money-making endeavor, you know, in uh in the world of government, you know. So, uh it wasn't until COVID came along that really kind of put a lot of money, you
006know, in there, you know, that really put you in the position, you know, that you're in now. So, so, but you've been able to do some good things with that money. We'll continue to do some good things with that money, you know, and uh that's probably one of the biggest uh I'd say talking points that I would say out of that audit, but something that you're addressing right now as we speak. So, so you have a plan and we just want to make sure that on 6:302 and when 6:30 26 rolls around, that plan is compliant so that we're not getting our door knocked on saying you still got a lot of money. Okay? We we had a plan to spend it and we'll we'll we'll certainly just make sure all that math follows suit.
007So, um, there were some best practice issues. Nothing that's really going to cry cause me to say alarm. I know that there's been some conversation with management from upper management superintendent and business managers. So, some of the problems have been addressed, but you know, nothing really that I saw out there, you know, out there. I think you guys all have a copy of the management letter with some of our comments in it, but nothing that would rise to the level of, hey, fire. So, no, just what hey, you want to take care of this. So, And if you guys have any other questions of me, what's going on in the world of schools, government, I'm right here. >> Questions for Ron. >> Andrew, >> I gotta go. Are we are we in pretty good shape
008compared to other districts? Our size. >> So, we talked about in the finance committee. I would say that you're in great shape compared to, you know, to uh to other districts and and certainly um uh I can remember the days when that wasn't the case, you know, with this district and now it is. So, yeah, I would say that you're in uh uh uh a B+ish financial grade for your school system. And I think that that's a good grade to be in. So, take that. I just came from a D. So, >> right. Yeah. And that and and and and I always say, you know, really it's the nature of the beast. And this is what I don't like about statute and law because they try to put you all on the same playing field.
009Don't compare yourself to anybody else. You know, that's that is just such a hard, well, they do this, they do that, they've got this kind of money, they got X, you know, don't compare yourself, you know, to anybody else. But if there's one thing that I could say that would really put you up higher with that grade, you know, is really probably some more um thought into a capital plan and moving some money clearly of that fund balance to a capital plan because you are going to have capital infrastructure needs. So, Other questions for Ron? >> Thank you. >> It has been a great pleasure. Thank you. Sorry. Sorry. I I'll probably make it up to you this year. So, >> uh public comments. Um like to remind everybody that you will have three minutes.
010Please address your comments to me. And um we'll start with Linda Dean. >> Is it on? >> Yeah. Okay. Good evening. My name is Linda Dean and I'm from Liverour. We're all here because we care about our kids, their education, their safety, and the American values of equality, freedom, and fairness. Recent debates have focused on fairness in sports. I know know some of you genuinely believe that allowing transgender girls on girls teams is unfair or unsafe. Others may be motivated by bias. But tonight I'm speaking only to those who are sincerely concerned about cisgender girls opportunities. You don't hate trans people. You don't want them bullied or shamed. And you respect their names, pronouns, and clothing choices. But you also are worried about protecting the rights of non-trans girls. Like you, I know sexism is
011real. Too often, women have been forced to pay the price while men claim the credit, the power, and the opportunities. As a woman who retired from a non-traditional job, I know this firsthand. We fought hard to make our daughters and granddaughters have a truly level playing field, literally and figuratively. But in this case, these worries are unnecessary for four reasons. First, numbers. Out of nearly 45,000 high school athletes in Maine, only two were transgender girls last year. Passing this resolution to block such rare cases is like using a sledgehammer on a thumbtack. Second, size and strength. Yes, boys tend to be bigger and stronger on average, but our daughters are far more likely to face a tall or strong biological girl than a transgender girl, and coaches already manage those differences to keep players safe.
012That's their job. Third, privacy. RSU73 already has private changing areas available. Fourth, fairness. The fear that a transgender girl will take away a varsity sport or scholarship is purely hypothetical. It hasn't happened and the numbers make it very unlikely. If it ever did, this board could revisit the issue. But right now, passing this resolution is like using a sledgehammer on a thumbtack. You don't just hit the tack, you knock big holes in the wall. And that's what's happened here. This resolution has divided our community, caused anxiety for students and teachers, violated state law, and opened the district to lawsuits. It could also prevent our students from competing with most schools in Maine since only three of 121 districts have passed similar rules. This hurts our daughters and granddaughters opportunities far more than the remote chance
013of a transgender girl winning or even the simple fact of competing against a transgender girl. I urge you, please make a motion to resend this damaging resolution. Thank you. Good evening and thank you for the opportunity to speak this evening. It's not too late. You can wait and see. Be cautious and consider the implications of your decision to end recognition of transgender youth in school policy. It's what almost every school district in the state of Maine is doing. Wait and see what the courts say. While you are waiting, there are many tasks that could be done by the board related to the issue of transgender youth. For example, evaluate the effect that the influence and pressure bo brought to bear by parent rights in education had on your decision-making. This is a group from outside
014of our community and they have no vested interest in our community. weigh the risks inherent in separating a small group of students for exclusion, leaving them more prone to bullying, which is al already an area of concern in our schools. Consider the impact on all students. Discuss the potential impact on athletic competitions with other schools and investigate what other schools are considering in terms of participation. Consult with the main department of education about their position that supports transgender students in the application of the main human rights act. It's not too late. You still have time to wait and see how the issue of recognition of transgender students works out. In the meantime, which issues facing our schools should be prioritized? learning gaps, mental health, student behavior, chronic absenteeism, staffing shortages, AI, changing workforce demand. Much
015work awaits. I thank you very much again for allowing me to speak. A thank you to all of the district staff and to the board for providing our students with a wonderful education. Good evening. Uh, Ann Weatherby. I'm a resident of Jay and a retired teacher from this district. I will admit that I was a little hesitant to speak before this board tonight. I am very aware of the harassment by board members or some board members to others who have expressed concerns that differ from their own beliefs. But I am deeply worried about the direction the board is taking in oppos opposition to the main human rights act. Both our superintendent and our district attorneys have advised us to follow the state law. Their reasoning is sound and could prevent legal difficulties down the road,
016which could be very costly to the taxpayers you represent. But my fear is not with the legal uncertainty this policy will inflict, but the harm it will do cause to our students and our community. It is your duty to ensure a school environment that protects all students. students thrive in a community that is inclusive and respectful. The policy that is proposed is neither of these. It is diversive and detrimental. Sports is often the justification that is given. I have three children, two females, one male, who played on the SAD36 co-ed soccer team. They played all male teams. Was I worried? No. I was. And I am grateful to the administration for their support, to the coaches who taught them teamwork and gave them the opportunity to play, to learn, and have fun. You aren't protecting
017girls with this policy. You are endangering a small, vulnerable population, and by doing so, you are endangering the very core of this school. I urge you to do what is best and to vote down this policy. Thank you very much. >> Good afternoon. My name is Ed Walsh and I've been member of this community for over 25 years. I'm here because this board has made it clear that you intend to target transgender students, restrict their participation in school activities, and force them to use restrooms based on their uh sex at birth. Let's be honest, this is not a real issue in our district. There is no evidence, none, that any student has created a problem here. This board is manufacturing a crisis where none exists. And in doing so, you're putting this district and every
018single taxpayer at risk. Executive orders are not laws that govern federal agencies, not state governments. Courts can and often do strike them down. Using an executive order as justification for this policy is illegally indefensible. You know it, and if you don't, you should. If you move forward, lawsuits under state human rights laws are not just possible, they're inevitable. And when they come, the financial burden will fall on the taxpayers of this community. Our resources will be wasted on lawyers and courtrooms instead of classrooms and students. So, let me ask you directly. When the day comes, will you be willing to stand before this community and explain why you chose to rush into this reckless policy? Will you admit that you ignored evidence, ignored the law, ignored the students you swore to serve, or will you
019hide behind excuses while our children and taxpayers pay the price? This is not leadership. This is politics. and it's reckless. Your duties to protect every student, to safeguard our school, and to act responsible with taxpayer money. Right now, you're failing in that duty. I urge you to stop manufacturing problems, stop targeting children, stop putting this district in harm's way. If you cannot slow down, listen, and lead with wisdom and integrity, then you shouldn't be sitting in these seats. The community is watching and will remember. Thank you. Good evening board and community members and thank you again for this time to speak. My name is Ellen Grunblat. I live in Jay. Although opinions may differ, there are values we can all agree on. We want students to be safe, to be free of harassment and bullying.
020We want all students to have a chance to be the best they can be and to participate fully in the life of the school. We believe that schools should promote personal development, teamwork, and celebration of all students on and off the playing field. As you consider these policies, please measure them against our shared values and decide their worth on that basis. We depend on each of you to make independent judgments about our school, our school which is the center of our community and the source of our future. And consider the facts without which our decisions are made in the dark. I'm going to spend a couple of minutes on scientific facts and the myths associated with singling out a small marginalized population of students. Myth number one that trans transgender girls are boys. They are
021not. They are not. Um my husband is going to talk about biological gender variation which is real. There is also gender variation in the way brain development and sexual identity don't necessarily match. This is admittedly subjective. We cannot get inside a person's mind and understand who they feel themselves to be. But neither can we discount it. These feelings are powerful and not easily changed. Certainly not by fiat or policy. Myth number two that girls need protection in order to compete effectively. A myth that I per personally find quite paternalistic and demeaning of the strength and character of female athletes. Consider that biomedical research, this is a fact, does not show a clear athletic advantage for trans girls over cisgendered girls. Number two, real life athletic competition also shows no clear athletic advantage for trans girls.
022An individual may have exceptional abilities, but when groups are compared, no advantage is found. Research that purports to show such differences, frequently uses small sample sizes, measures single biological factors rather than actual performance, does not control for different levels of training, nor the actual requirements of specific sports. Single biomedical markers do not tell us much about athletic performance. Not lung capacity, grip strength, testosterone levels, even height and weight are all poor predictors in themselves of athletic ability. It is much more important to have access to health care, good nutrition, good coaching, training, facilities, equipment, and parental and financial support. If we are concerned that the financial playing that >> Thank you, Alan. >> That the playing field I'm sorry, your time is up. >> These are the issues that should be examined. Amanda Richi, I'm
023here again to formally express my deep concern regarding the conduct of a school board member who currently serves on this board. I'm not attacking. >> I'm not attacking and I haven't said a name. >> Yes. >> I think it's a fact, not an attack. >> A fact. What do you mean by that? somebody's character say bad things about me >> to state facts like someone on this board harassing members of the community just because they've smiled at them >> to the video evidence that you've all seen. >> I mean, you're welcome to go ask. it is your neighbor. If you'd like to see the rest of the video, so I think I think we all know that there's been some harassment. >> We've all seen the video. >> Yep. So my concern again is that
024these actions reflect poorly on the integrity of this school system and this board. They also undermine the trust and the confidence that students, families, and community members place in those who are elected to serve. Schoolboard members are held to the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. And their behavior should exemplify respect, responsibility, and accountability at all times. As I mentioned during a previous visit to the school board, it is this board's responsibility to ensure that the code of ethics that you receive training on that night is upheld. What's the point of having a code of ethics if a school board member refuses to participate in the training or to follow the code of ethics? Refusing to publicly condone the behavior and making excuses claiming there isn't anything can be done is not only incorrect
025but irresponsible. Every five years, the board consolidation plan can be reviewed and updated. This is a self-governing board and it has been beyond five years since the last change. So, I respectfully urge the board to take immediate and appropriate action to address this matter. Whether through investigation, censure, or other disciplinary measures, it is critical that the board demonstrate to our community that misconduct will not be tolerated and that the safety and well-being of students, staff, and community members remain the top priority. Our children deserve role models who embody integrity and respect, and our community deserves leaders who conduct themselves with dignity and accountability. Allowing this behavior to continue without consequence sends a dangerous message that such actions are acceptable, which they are not. It sets an example for our students that bullying is okay. I
026thank you for your attention to this urgent matter and for your commitment to upholding the values of our district and I look forward to seeing how the board addresses these situations. >> I think that the students learn that from some of the teachers and some of the bullying that's going on. Stop. Stop. Anything else? Thanks. >> Okay. I I have a a brief statement. Um after consultation with the superintendent and our attorneys, um I recently received several questions from the community, so I wanted to offer some clarification. Indo individual board members have no independent legal authority outside an official meeting of the board except when expressly delegated. The RSU73 board acts with authority only when legally in session. Any action or statement by individual board members outside of this session are not representative of the
027RSU73 board, >> but they are Our commitment as a board remains focused on serving the best interests of the students and staff of our district. The RSU73 board cannot remove a board member because the member was elected by the town that they represent. Currently, none of the RSU73 district towns have chatters which would allow for a recall election. which would allow for a recall election to be held. It is of the utmost importance that the board focus on the duties of educating and protecting the students of Jay Livermore and Livermore Falls. As I said, this statement comes in connection with consultation with our attorneys. I understand that people are upset, but what happens outside of this board meeting by individual board members is not the concern of the entire board. You might not like it,
028but that's the facts. And those facts came from our attorney. >> The most the most I can well I and I can't even act alone. The most the board can do is censure and remove somebody from the subcommittees if that if that is taken. But I I don't think that that's going to quiet anybody. I can't remove anybody. You need to talk to the town. Steve Bian. >> My name is Steve Bian. I'm a resident of Jay and a family physician in Farmington. I want to talk about particular aspect of the proposed policy. Should I repeat myself? >> Okay. Policies often founder on their implementation. This gender policy that's been proposed may prove far more challenging than its authors imagine. For gender is not as simple as many people make it out to be. It
029says in the Bible, "So God created mankind in his own image. In the image of God, he created them. Male and female he created them. But he also in his wisdom created half a dozen or more so-called interex syndromes. Taken together, these represent 2% of all births and people with them have ambiguous genitalia, confusing genital characteristics. And beyond that, we have 25 to 30% of the overall population, boys and girls alike, who have an atypical appearance for their gender. We may speak of boys who appear feminine or girls who appear masculine by popular standards. In summary, a considerable percentage of boys and girls, approximately 30% whose genders may not be immediately apparent. So imagine a situation in which a coach, a parent, or a student calls into question an individual's gender. Who's going to make
030that determination? Teachers, schoolboard members, parents, teachers, coach? Will you require a medical exam? I shudder to think of the liabilities of this board or any involved staff might incur in the in these potential grave invasions of privacy and civil rights. Board members might want to think carefully about pushing a policy that could create fertile ground for harassment claims against you collectively or individually. In addition, what will the atmosphere on campus be if students interpret this policy to go after other students who are not gender typical? How will students suspicions be handled? What if teachers or staff who refuse to follow the letter of the policy out of fear of their own liability for doing so? A very legitimate concern. The board has been cautioned by its lawyers not to stray from main law. Where will
031the board go to obtain necessary advice it should receive before entering this very treacherous realm of interpreting gender rules? I urge you to consider the full consequences of this policy, not only in terms of school atmosphere and cohesion, but in terms of your own liabilities and those of your staff if you proceed. Thank you. I'm Maline Leonte. I'm from Liverour and I am here today to express my deep disappointment at the district's decision to change the Title 9 policy to exclude trans girls from women's spaces. Decisions like these hurt women as a whole. I fully believe that if trans women aren't safe, no women are safe. If trans women are unsafe, all it takes to make you unsafe is someone thinking you are trans. What would you do if it was your daughter in school?
032How would you feel hearing that your daughter was suspected of being transgender and was subsequently forced to prove her sex? What does that look like? Do we ban these girls from using the bathroom until someone can verify their birth certificate? I would also like to take this time to point out how incorrect the language used in policy is. It is incredibly disheartening to hear that the people making policy to define who is and who isn't a girl in this district couldn't find any words other than biological male and biological female when discussing gender and sex. How do you intend to define interex individuals, individuals born with ambiguous genitalia, and the many people that fall outside of these boxes? I understand that not understanding something is scary. It's so easy to retreat into a binary worldview,
033one where God said Adam and Eve, so we need not discuss further. But this isn't a Catholic school. America is founded on clear separation of church and state. To bring religion into the classroom and into the policy is in clear violation of this and goes against the religious freedoms that America affords to everyone. It is unethical and unamerican to push religious views in this way. I am a strong believer in the American dream, the cultural melting pot, a place for everyone. Policies like these are making my country, my town, and my former school a hostile place for some of its most vulnerable members. You've not protected anyone with this policy. It's still discrimination, even if you've made it more socially acceptable. >> Well, I guess I'm going to go against the grain a little bit.
034My name is Peter Labier from Jay. I applaud the school board's decision. Um I think it's a step in the right direction. I find it interesting the comments that I've been listening to. Um and the first school board meeting I went to was in October of 22 I believe and there was some statistic that came down. There was there was testing and uh it was national testing and RSU73 got like a 26 27 or 28 and then the numbers were revised because it went under some kind of curve and it ended up being a 53 54 55 and that's fine that it went through a curve but what I found fascinating and this is really nothing to do with the school board. They had nothing to do with anything other than the fact that they
035were excited about it. And I I found that just so fascinating because everybody was just as brilliant as they were before with their 27 that they could hang their hat on. And the attitude just struck me. And now here we are today and I was in school back in 1985, graduated, and you hear these statistics by 30% don't know what gender they are. Okay. I don't remember that being a thing in 1985. I really don't. But it's a thing today and I don't understand it. Thank you very much. Good evening, Jeff Bailey, Town of Jay. Uh, today the board is having its first reading of a Title 9 change in policy. This is one of the first of the three readings before a vote will occur or either adopt or reject this new policy. I
036understand that there are many disagreements about this issue and I don't expect everyone to feel the same or vote the same when it comes to issues like this one. I'm asking the board to be thoughtful, deliberate, and compassionate in the way they choose to write this policy. When this issue was first being discussed earlier this year, the board chair assured us all that the board would hear all sides of the issue before making a decision. So far, the board has invited one group, parents rights and education, to speak. I asked the board to invite more perspectives before making further decisions. There are a number of groups who look to support students who are in the LGBTQ community, a community many members have stated that they want to ensure are not being targeted, harassed, or harmed
037by these policy debates. Additionally, we have not heard from a representative from the main principles association whose rules or athletics of our athletic contests would be required to follow. Inviting other groups here may reveal unintended consequences of this policy change that the board had not yet considered. There are many opportunities here to make an informed decision with transparency that considers the needs of all students. We also have the benefit of time. So far, no one that we know of has been negatively affected by the current version of our our Title 9 policy. To my knowledge, there have not been any complaints or investigations made to RSU73 regarding the current Title 9. That means we have time for the courts to weigh the Main Human Rights Act and the executive order against each other. If the
038order is found to be overturned, the main to overturn the Main Human Rights Act, there would still be time to make changes at that point and you've already begun the process to do so. For the time being, the Main Human Rights Act is law and we risk being sued if a student or a parent files a complaint with the main human rights commission. So, I'm asking the board take the time for careful careful deliberation, consider all sides and follow the current law while it stands. This is an approach that honors everyone's voices regardless of which if we disagree, and doesn't place taxpayer funds in the risk of the courts. Thank you. Board comments. When I was in school, I had no idea who was on our school board. I didn't even know a school board
039existed. If anybody is telling their children to follow me as a role model, you are failing as a parent. That's all I have to say. Seeing the growing support of Title Nationwide, I am happy that we at RSU73 are standing up for our girls and young women. It is so important to stand up for the rights that girls and women have worked for decades to achieve. I am happy to see that our own Senator Susan Collins is in agreement with Title N. The University of New Hampshire poll in March showed 64% were in agreement with Title 9. A more recent poll by NBC showed that 75% of American adults agree with Title Nine. Using the Main Human Rights Act to defend allowing men to compete in women's sports is flawed for two significant reasons. The
040most obvious fact is state law does not supersede federal law. The Trump administration inter interpretation of title nine is the federal law of the land. The US constitution clearly states that federal law supersedes state law. Another flaw in the Mills administration reliance on the main human rights act is the law does not mention or reference trans transgender athletes or allowing men to compete in women's sports. The only reference to sports is the law in the law is that an educational institution cannot deny a person equal opportunity in athletic programs. Considering that biological men can still compete in sports designated designated for males, President Trump's executive order reaffirming Title Nine, protection of women's sports is not deni denying anyone's access to participating in athletics. Any attempt by Governor Mills and her administration to argue otherwise is
041def deceitful and blatantly false. Don, >> thank you. I just wanted to ask people to have their thoughts and prayers with Brian Riley who is uh going through a tough time in the hospital. I just uh my heart goes out to him and his family. Thank you. Any other board comments? >> Superintendent's report. >> Good evening. I was involved in safety care training with the administrative team today which was focused on deescalation, safely escorting students, and learning how to safely get out of holds. Uh we had two administrative team meetings the past month to discuss and plan our opening days for next week as well as looking at ways in the future to save money. Um we had our policy meeting after the last board meeting. We discussed policy ACDC coordination of federal and state
042law. After that I met with the association for a meet and consult on that ACDC policy. Also, in the past couple weeks, I met with guidance counselor Chris Bodwin to go over the remaining ease grant budget, which will end this December. >> Questions for Scott? >> Dina, >> thank you. Scott, could you um elaborate any you said there was a meeting that you had after the policy meeting to further discuss the impacts of ACDC. What was that? Can you can you elaborate on Yeah, we met with the association because part of the policy of adopting policies, you're supposed to meet and consult with the association and we met and with the association. They're not happy with the policy and they express their concerns and um and that's part of the process and I I respect
043their thoughts and that's why we have the meet and consult so we can hear what other people have to say. >> May I follow up? Um, are you directly providing more of more details about that to us or will they be bringing that to a board meeting? Those concerns, the specifics of >> That's that that would be up to the association if they want to speak at a board meeting about their concerns. >> Could you then share with us more about what their specific concerns were? >> Their concerns were they don't believe we should be doing this for transgender students. they should be able to compete. Uh they're concerned that it's going to reach farther than just athletics. Um they're concerned that we're breaking the law. They're concerned that we're going to get sued. Michelle
044can add more if she'd like. She's here. I can I can speak off the cuff or I can come back next >> because that would be before the second reading. So that would be whatever you want to do. >> She's welcome. >> Okay. >> Yeah. No, she's welcome. >> Um I just hope that you'll you'll understand if I don't remember everything um that it was that that we discussed. Um but one of the things that we are deeply concerned about after consultation with our legal adviser from the MEA is the um the situation that it can put staff members in terms of um disciplinary action particularly when it comes to specific courses that do teach about um sex and gender um science classes for instance some of the health health curriculum um this AP AP
045US history that requires talking about um indigenous cultures understanding of sex and gender Um, so MEA's legal advice is that it could leave staff members up for disciplinary measures if they are teaching anything outside of what the new policy's legal definition of biological male and biological female are. So that's definitely a huge concern among the association members. Um, some of the other things have to do with like you know some of the things that Scott just mentioned. Um, obviously if the district does end up involved in a lawsuit and it becomes expensive, we understand that taxpayers can only afford so much and so if taxpayers are having to contribute more to legal fees, that means less money for other things that our students need. So that is of course a major concern for the association.
046Um, we also wondered what the potential ramifications of the language could be in terms of any of the current genderneutral bathrooms. We weren't sure um if those would end up being assigned specifically to be for male or female because that would obviously have a major impact in a lot of different ways when you consider that the most handicap accessible bathrooms are genderneutral. Um and of course we have genderneutral classrooms in many of the the littles classrooms down in the primary school. Um so those are some of the things that I remember off the top of my head. I I had a much more detailed notes when I met with Scott and I would be happy um either for Scott to send them along to you or I can share them directly to Sherry and then
047Sherry could share them with the rest of either the whole board or just the policy committee. I'm not sure which is more appropriate at this point. Yeah, >> I would prefer um since we're trying to get those details to have them have the um association be invited to come in and give us a presentation at the next meeting. Um I think it should come to the full board because the policy is now in front of the full board. It's my request. Any other board comments? Administrator reports. Norma. Hello. Hope everyone had a great summer. Seems like it was a really short one now that we're here. Um, our propane bus is scheduled to be delivered on September 3rd. We then have to wait for the cameras and the radio system to be installed. Um, just
048to be clear, um, I couldn't get a hold of my salesman today. I'm not sure if that's being delivered to Okconor or if it's going to be delivered here on September 3rd. I can give you that information further. Then after it does get delivered, the process is after the cameras and radio get installed, then I have our mechanic at Bailey's go over it and check it over, make sure it's all legit. We also received our new van in July. It's actually a seven passenger SUV, Chevy Traverse. Um, how that happened was we had a van ordered, the dealership sold the van, and so I had to go shopping for something else and saved us a little bit of money. So Sherry Parker and myself took crisis prevention training at the end of July, beginning of
049August to become certified uh CPI trainers if we ever go that way. Uh supports sports are beginning right out of the gate on Monday for high school sports. Right now we have two drivers custodians out on medical leave. We have hired one new van driver because our other van driver is going to be moving into a school bus driving position hopefully in the next month or two. And then a couple of new custodians who are working on receiving their bus licenses. And we just had another custodian get done her training this week with me and she just sent in for a permit for her school bus. and we have three more who have started their permit training and things are looking up staff-wise. I also want to remind parents of freshmen, please contact me by
050tomorrow afternoon for transportation for freshman orientation and there'll be a few new faces this year, new employees, bus drivers. And on Monday, August 25th, um we have a driver going over to the primary school and they'll be giving pre-k and kindergarten students along with their parents. Um it will give them some idea for kids that have never rode the buses before. And we'll go over what's expected of them and to let the parents know what's expected of them on riding the bus. And we give them a little ride over the railroad tracks and through town. And and that will start at 3:30 and continue until 5:30. That's all I got. >> Do you have any open positions right now, Norma? >> I think he does. >> He's next. Actually, right now, um there's always a
051need for bus drive uh bus monitors. Uh I have three um edte so that work doing that for us. And I have actually a cafeteria um person that's also doing bus monitoring for me. So that's working out sharing people with us. Right now I have a I have a full staff. Knock on wood. I don't want to jinx myself. Other questions for Noama >> Andrew. >> I think I read somewhere we were supposed to go through our annual bus inspection with the state police. Is that scheduled or taken place or >> that was Tuesday? >> How'd we do? >> We did well. Um I know some I talked to a uh director. We have a fairly new fleet so I mean it wasn't terrible. They they usually find something to be honest. So, um, we
052had a new staff of state police that came, so they were a little pickier than, you know, than what we used to, but we didn't do bad. Let's put it that way. But I did talk to some directors that said they had it pretty tough. So, >> other questions for Norma. >> Thank you, >> Wayne. Good evening everyone. Um it's been a busy summer. It's always a busy summer for us here. Um when school gets out for facilities and maintenance. Um going through the buildings, we've done a lot of obviously a lot of cleaning. Um waxing, painting, a lot of painting this year. Uh grounds maintenance. I don't know if you've noticed coming up through um um we've done a lot there this year cutting back roadways um just taking the a lot of the
053overgrown shrubs around the trees out um this summer I took uh IPM training um which is integrated pest management which which it's a no no to have all these uh bushes and everything growing against buildings for pests. Um, so I got the guys involved in that. Um, so we've done quite a bit. Uh, painting in the gym. Um, I employed volunteers for that. I got uh TJ and Mark Keller to um, paint the dome out there. um if you go out sometime when we have have a chance um rather than being yellow around the dome now, now it's green and black to to integrate some more school colors and get get some more pride in our in our schools. Um we've done lobby painting at the uh middle school, some classrooms there, classrooms here. Um
054Darcy Darcy even rolled up her sleeves over to the primary school. Um, she helped with volunteering, painting the uh a hallway and the lobby over there to to spruce the place up, so to speak. Um, some new signs and stuff. So, I'd like to recognize all all my staff, principles, teachers for helping out a lot this year um with this month that they gave us staying out of the schools. It really uh really helped my staff out by being able to uh get some of these extra projects done. um new staff placements. We've had retirements. Um some staff get done, more staff coming in. We've had uh transferring of stu of uh staff. Um so like Norma said, we'll see we'll see some new faces in some new buildings, but they're they've been here for
055a few years. Um we did hire two new staff due to um one retiring and one leaving. Um which uh you're doing great. have got them all set up. I still have one open position nights here at the high school. Um just just waiting you lots of times they'll come out of the woodwork. So I'm hoping that will happen be sooner than later. Um update on the bleachers is the right now they're believing it will be the end of October to the beginning of November for the placement and then we'll have um electricity to hook to that because they're obviously they're motorized now. So that'll help with my staff. um truck. I reached out to Bailey's right now. That's still in production in Kentucky and um that was the last of July that I reached
056out to her on that. So, I'm just waiting to see that on the law hopefully soon and we'll have that in place. That's about all I have. >> Questions for Wayne. >> Thank you very much, >> Chris. Good evening. Um, couple things we're working on lately. Um, as I mentioned to the board last spring, uh, the state was implementing a new data system, uh, which was replacing Synergy. Um, and unless you use Synergy, you wouldn't really know what it is. Um, but it's basically the state's data system that we send our data, student data to, and that's where they compile it and check check to make sure it's correct before they um put it into the system for for our reimbursements for the number of kids we have. Uh, it also populates um the NWA,
057which you know we use for the state testing. Um so uh Mark Bonavey and myself went through some training this um this summer on the new system. Uh during the summer they shut down synergy so nobody had access to it anymore and they were moving over to the new system. Um it was at the training that we realized that there may be some issues. Um we people were asking questions. Uh their answer a lot of times was we're we're working to meet the deadline. um about half the system wasn't up yet. They didn't have the part that would actually connect to our power school in order to pull data out of it. Um and to get student numbers when students enroll um but they said they were working to meet the deadline. Um earlier this
058week they let us know they're not going to meet the deadline. Uh so they are moving back to Synergy for now. Um which is fine. We've um we've used Synergy. We know how to use synergy. Um it won't it's still locked. We can't have access to it until next Monday. Um but it has caused a little bit of grief because um part of the new system you just allow you just enroll students in P school. Um and and if you don't have the state number, P school gives them an automatic number and then the new system would take that information. uh they would actually find the student number that was out there, whether they were at another school or whether they need a new state number, and then they would populate that and push that
059student number back to our P school system. Um so now we have, and I think Laura Merrill is here, she's not going to be happy about this. Uh we have a bunch of new students in P school with um a two number, which is what P school gives them for a number. Um, a lot of the state numbers are like 15 or or uh something like that. Um, and um, and so now we're going to have to go out and search for those for those state numbers and manually change them so they're correct. Um, because it affects, you know, if they don't have their state number, it affects um, our numbers. It affects the lunch program because she needs those for for IDs for uh, lunch program and things like that. So um, so we'll
060be a little bit bit busy. um fixing all that. Um uh so for some other good news um uh Scott had mentioned earlier that we um met as an admin team earlier this year. Um and one of the things we discussed is um the our copy usage continues to go up. Um it's a little concerning. We were over budget by by a lot again this year. Um and um so one of the decisions we made at the ad team was that um uh the tech team is going to look into some options. Um and one of the options we found is probably the least well we felt that was the least restrictive as of right now um is to we can we are able to go into all the Xerox machines um and set them
061so they'll only print black and white. Uh because one of the things we noticed um is that the reason we're over by quite a bit is because the number of color copies um we're printing. When you print of course when you print color it costs more per page than black and white. Um and and we print about twice as much color as we do black and white. So we knew if we could reduce the color that that would help alleviate some of that um overage. Um, so right now, except for the office copiers, we've set all the copers so they only print black and white. Um, and if they need to print color, they can they can go um go to the office or print to the office. Um, and the office will know um
062and um and so we're hoping that's going to help it. Obviously, it's going to be a change for staff because things are going to be printing in black and white all of a sudden instead of color. Um but a lot of times too um as we went through this process, one of the things we found is all the Xerox machines are set um automatically to print to color if you don't choose. So so um I think they know that how to make a little bit of money. Um, so, um, a lot of times we feel that staff would try to print in black and white, but if they're printing from their, uh, laptop and it's a color copy, even if they choose black and white, lots of times the machine overrides that setting and says,
063"Oh, I'm supposed to print in color if it's color." So, it would print color. So, so it's a little bit of a way for us to kind of get that back into control as well. and then we'll we'll um discuss that at that team and see how it's going and then make more changes from there. >> Questions for Chris Lane? >> Regarding the other half of your most important job curriculum, how we set for starting off with our new English language arts curriculum and the lower grades? >> We're we're good. We have uh we have all the materials in. We have the online. took a little bit to get the online set up. Um because of course it's never um we did set it up so it's single sign on for teachers which means they
064just have to use their Google account to get in now instead of having a password. >> So that was a little bit of a change but now but it does once they go in >> it actually shows them how to set up a class uh has actually um some training in there for them. Um and then um the recommendation from the company. We had an endofear uh presentation by the company that showed them the the materials and everything. And then we discussed whether we should have um a training the first day or or wait until they've got to actually use it a little bit hands-on and they go and they go through the the online training. Um and they recommended that we wait let them use it a little bit and that would actually make
065it so they could ask more questions. So, we're looking at our October workshop to have um an actual live person come and do an inerson training and answer questions that they might have. >> And overall, how did people react to the uh end of the year stuff? >> I know everybody looked at that program and and that's what the committee voted for. >> Are we still feeling very positive about that? >> Yes, I believe so. And and I know they were very eager to start getting the matures and look at them. >> Yeah. Even though we got them in as quick as we could, it was they were still chomping at the bit to to to be able to see them >> right now. We're starting out with K2 for sure. And three is opting
066to do it. >> Three, four, and five is now opting. >> They're opting. Are they all doing it? >> Yep. >> Awesome. That is >> But they've decided to do it schoolwide. >> That's fabulous. That's great because I really think this is going to help with filling those gaps and that's where we've really been focusing. What's the curriculum focus for this coming year? I know that the past two years it's been English language arts and we're looking at writing. Where's the curriculum focus going to be? >> As far just as far as the language arts or >> No, overall curriculum >> overall. Um obviously we want to we'll keep tabs on on gonna be ongoing. >> Yeah, that'll be ongoing. Um but but one of the big focus this year um we're starting to look
067at um science and some of the some of the things that are out there for especially for middle school science um that's available um as well as um what uh and then social studies. We're going to be looking at what we can integrate um into other areas and and because um at the lower levels it's not so much at the higher levels. At the lower levels there's just not enough time in the day for all the subjects. Um so they're looking at what they can integrate um at the lower levels and then have only uh have fewer focuses for social studies um that that teachers can really focus on. Um and then um as always with unified arts we're just yeah trying to to you know fizz and health would be a nice one to
068try to get get that some kind of scope and sequence done there. Yeah, I know that the I know the elementary people and the primary people are happy because within that new program there's many opportunities to overlap with the science and social studies to make it >> more doable. Thank you so much. Appreciate it. >> Thanks, >> Jody. Chris, I don't know if this is a question for you curriculum wise, but as a parent of a senior, we have come to the realization that our curriculum in the high school is not aligning with Central Main Community College, which seems to be the closest community college for our students to be attending. Is that something that we can look into and why that collaboration isn't working with our high school? you what do you mean by
069collaboration? >> Well, they said that Spruce Mountain actually doesn't like have meetings with Central Main Community College >> or anything like that. And that was a little concerning to me considering we're 30 minutes from them. And so we had to then because you know myself as well as many parents are now looking at other community colleges because our curriculum isn't allowing our students to metriculate over to CM as easily as many of the other schools. >> Yeah. And I think that would be probably because um they're actually doing some of the courses that CM does here. Usually they don't just let you uh um bring over high school courses. They have to be CM courses, but they do they are willing to offer them here. >> Yeah. No, and this was actually a prerequisite, not
070even a college class. So, a high school prerequisite was had to be reworked. I I was going to say because I know I looked at that going into it and they said that that some of some of Spruce's stuff didn't align with their requirements to like the stuff on my transcript wouldn't >> I don't know come come over to them >> and wouldn't meet their requirements. >> Yeah. So we have we have many seniors that are in this place where they actually can't get into CM >> because they don't have what they needed in high school. >> That's interesting. Yeah. I mean, obviously this is the first I've ever heard of this, so it'll be uh I'd be certainly willing to talk to somebody and see what see what it is that's not aligning. >>
071Yeah. Interesting, >> Chris. >> Thank you, >> Chris. Chris, is that something that you can look into and and report back to us the next meeting? >> Um, I'd probably do it in collaboration with TJ since CM would have to go through Kim, but I don't mind meeting with TJ and and figuring out who we have to talk to. >> Yeah. Thank you. Yep. >> Good evening. I hope you all had a restful summer. Um, over the summer we worked with 16 high school students in our credit recovery program. In total over the six-week program, 16 and a half credits were earned and issued to the respective students to stay on track to graduate with their high school cohort. I want to thank my staff TJ and Chris Bodwin for their communication and helping make
072this another successful summer session. The state of Maine recently revamped what is known as the work ready program. That's a 60hour state recognized employment uh skills training. This class covers topics like work ethic, punctuality, communication, resume writing, and interview skills. Courtney, who is now um focusing on some of our workforce initiatives, she is digitizing that program, and she's creating modules in a Google classroom for better accessibility and personalized learning for our students. So, we'll be building this um into a few of our workforce classes um such as culinary or CNA for first-time job seekers. And I know that I've talked about a number of grants over the years, but I am coming to you with good news today about our CDL class A program. The main development foundation reached out um they're our grant holder
073for a federal grant. Um they received the contract from the federal government on July 1. This but this means that the clock is ticking. Um and we have not signed our subreient grant agreements yet. Um the mandatory scheduled meeting for the contracts was cancelled and that has caused a month and a half delay and we still have a 36-month strict um spend period for the grant. So the clock is ticking. We have not signed agreements and we have to wrap up all the spending by 36 months. So uh we're a little bit nervous, but um the goal is to recruit and have a cohort lined up uh for late spring and an early or an early summer start. um we can't incur any cost prior to signing that agreement. Um otherwise they would not be
074reimbursible. So it's a hurry up and wait situation, but we are excited that they at least have um a contract in hand with our grant holder. And I very much want to connect with you about um aligning curriculum with CMCC because we do have frequent meetings at least through adult ed and we have an articulation agreement. So, if there's anything that I can help do with that, happy to sit in on that. That's news to me. >> So, what is it? What is it that hold that's holding up the contract? >> Something with the federal government is really >> Oh, it's not on not on our not on our end at all. >> No, it's nothing on our end. There was um between the feds and the grant holders. And it's not just our grant.
075it's, you know, whoever is facilitating this process of getting these signed off. Um, that meeting was delayed for a month and a half. So, that has to all be signed and then we go into subreient um, grant sign offs. We're a subreient, so we're just waiting for that to happen. Questions for Robin? Tina, >> is there anything scheduled? >> Not that I know of. Um I do know that the main development foundation is having a meeting with I'll just say a bank. Um so I did go through the budget with a fine co uh fine tooth comb. We wrote this grant three years ago. And so now I had to do a cost analysis of how much inflation is going to affect these numbers. So we have a half a million dollars to run this
076program over two and a half years or well 36 months but two two and a half years. Um, and my estimate is that the cost will be $56,000 more per year than what we had originally anticipated. So, Main Development is going to meet with the bank to see if um they could possibly chip in towards the cost of some of that overage. And we did um try to account for inflation when we built that budget. But >> yeah, >> other questions for Robin. Michelle, >> just out of curiosity, um, have you been in contact at all or have been able to collaborate maybe with region 9 just to kind of get some of that mentoring because they've done it for so long or if they can help provide some partnership where things are kind of
077at a holding. >> That's a great question. So, we're not necessarily partnering with region 9. We I've been getting my mentorship from Oxford Hills um who also has a a class A program and they've been fantastic. They shared their most re recent budget with us. Um she was very kind to put it in like an adaptable form so I can kind of go in and play with the numbers and use what they had for FY25 numbers. They've been fantastic mentors. So Tina Kristofferson at Oxford Hills, she's been very good to me. Other questions for Robin? Thank you. Thank you. Laura, [Music] first of all, I'd like to say hello. I hope everybody did enjoy their summer. Um, what a busy and productive summer it's been for the nutrition department. between programming um projects and professional
078growth. We've had our plates full and I'm so proud of all of the things that we've achieved this summer. Um our summer feeding program was a huge success. I believe uh really was um very fluid and it went really well. We fed 4,043 meals throughout the six weeks of our summer programming. Um it was smooth and successful season thanks in large part to the hard work of um three of the staff members, Crystal, Heidi, and Linda. Um I thank all of everyone who uh participated in any way or form with either the wreck, the 21st century um the uh extended school year or summer school um because I think it was really making a positive impact on the community and the children. Um a few updates for you. our high school refrigeration upgrades. We've had
079two walk-in refrigerators at the high school that have received um updates with new condensing units and evaporator coils. Um these upgrades will help improve efficiency and reliability. While the installation itself was completed by a subcontractor, a huge thank you goes out to our maintenance department for helping with everything that they had to do on their end to coordinate and support the project behind the scenes. Um, additionally, districtwide in all of our walk-in refrigerators or freezers at this point, um, sensors have all been, uh, placed in those. So, um, those are, um, monitored and recorded around the clock. And this helps us to maintain food safety and gives us a better visibility across the board. I, you know, I get pings if um any of those coolers are out of range for any longer than 15
080minutes and um when they go back in and uh it's all recorded and that's been a huge help for us. Like when somebody puts water in there and doesn't shut our cooler door, that's a no no, but we won't talk about that. Um uh because it was a simple mistake and it was caught immediately. So things like that happen all the time. And we unfortunately did lose um a freezer over the course of the summer um when staff and I was away at the um uh school nutrition association national conference. I came back um Monday morning um and our freezer at the elementary school was at 50°. Um and at this point this this system had not been installed. Uh, I was happy to tell you and I'm happy to say that the cooler was
081very minimal in what was in it and what was lost. So, that was um, uh, at least a little bit positive there. Um, but it really, you know, I can't emphasize enough how important things like these monitors are for us because that was during that really hot first stretch that we had and the only thing that was wrong with the cooler was that it froze up. Now, had that froze up and then thawed, we would had an issue. So, I I can't stress enough how important things like this, doing and implementing these type of systems in place is ensuring our stu student safety. Um, and that's my number one concern. Um, so that's all in and I just want to thank uh maintenance again and Ernie and it for making sure that that went smoothly
082and probably ought to thank my husband for all the alarms he got for two weeks as we regulated that and figured out what our safe zones were. But like let's hope that we've got that worked out now. Um, in addition, we've had a lot of uh new equipment, small equipment brought in over the course of the summer. Um, as you can see over here, we have two new salad bars, um, refrigerated salad bars for one of them for the high school. The middle school will receive two of these salad bars as well. And the elementary, unfortunately, those two buildings are on back order. And I'm not slated to receive those or they're going to be shipped around the 12th of September. So, be patient, but we're really looking forward to that and that will really
083go uh well for the presentation of our products and our our schools and um choices for our our programming. Um let's see. We I'm happy to say that we anticipate being fully staffed um next week. Uh we have three new staff members coming on board. Uh two of them that are starting right away and the third one will join us in mid-occtober. So, we're excited to uh welcome Chelsea, Louise, and Eve um to our team, and we look forward to the energy and the ideas that they bring. Um like I had just said, um another highlight of our summer was attending the national conference. Uh I had the opportunity of attending with three of our team members and it was a really incredible experience for all of us. We came back with valuable knowledge, fresh
084ideas, and a lot of inspiration to carry us into this next school year. And I'm really excited to see how they go ahead and put these plans into action. Um, one of the most exciting things I feel like I'm standing here in front of you today is saying that our primary school cafeteria remodel is complete. Uh, it is officially complete. The tables were received yesterday and I just think it looks fantastic. I might be a little biased, but it's bright. It's welcoming. Um, it's designed with the students in mind, and I can't wait for them to be able to get in there and see it. And I hope you all get a chance to stop by and check it out. Um, it's a space that we can all be very proud of. Uh, it was
085a long process. They the company came in, they painted, they that paint had to cure for uh roughly 30 days. We was definitely on some tight uh restraints. They were long days that they put in. Then they came back and put the murals up. Um and then we was waiting and waiting and waiting for our tables and we was happy to see them arrive. Um and then with that said, I do have a little video. I didn't have enough opportunity to really um print and I don't want to up the cost of the printing. So, I didn't want to do that. So, I have a little video on my phone if any of you are interested. You can kind of check out the primary school. Um yeah, I it's really awesome. And then lastly, I
086received a uh text message from one of the staff members that did attend the uh SNA conference and she addressed it to me, but I really felt that it more appropriately should be addressed to uh you all as a board as well. Um she just said, you know, Laura, I just want to thank you for allowing me to travel to the SNA conference this year. The conference really opened my eyes to new ideas for our kitchens and our students. It was very interesting to attend so many seminars and I was immediately happy with my decision to attend after my first seminar where I got more than 10 new ideas to try in just one of our kitchens um that our students would really enjoy. We do try to be pretty creative and take students feedback
087as much as possible in our kitchens, but it's inspiring to see and hear what a student um actually gets from student engagement in other school cafeterias across America. This first seminar got me to thinking and excited about what I wanted to try this upcoming school year. Another seminar that I attended, I also was ignited, it ignited my creativity with some of the products that we use in our own kitchen. I was so amazed to just see one product used in so many different ways. Um and that's something that you know I really try to stress with them to to think outside of the box and um we can add something really very simple and make it a totally different product. So these were all really good things that they learned. Um she went on to
088say I was I have used this product countless times in our kitchens but now I see so many other possibilities. Another seminar I attended um that got me excited about putting our meals on social media to engage with our community while we take photos from time to time within our own food ideas and share these within our own little group um and into in around in our school um the different schools. Uh it really got me excited about how we could be using these photos as an effective tool for our community and engagement. Um it this seminar really rekindled my interest in uh trying to do something uh striving to do to do more of photos in this upcoming year. While learning at various seminars was very valuable. What I found most helpful was connecting
089with other people who who do what I do. I feel so reassured that other food nutrition workers are faced with the same struggles that we do daily. Being a small group in a small school system, we are fairly um limited on how much exposure we get and how much communication um outside of our own little kitchens. While we do bounce ideas off each other as a group, it was great to hear other people's ideas and solutions they have used in their kitchen. I personally have since the conference texted with a food service worker in Iowa about different recipes for breakfast to try to expand hers and our program. This conference made me feel less alone in my feelings about my position in our school which I thought that was a very impactful statement while talking
090with other attendees at the conference while attending the same seminars. Um, we were able to compare notes. As you know, some of our students struggle with hunger. Often while we know who these students are, we often feel helpless on what we can do to help them. And during our conversations, we don't solve any of these problems, but it was comforting to hear what others are feeling um and doing, and we are in line and doing the same. It is valuable to feel seen and understood by others. Again, I'd like you to thank you for the opportunity to attend and to learn. I feel more excited about my job for the upcoming year. My creativity is flowing again and I feel more confident in my position. So, I thought that was a really nice letter that
091should be shared with you all. So, >> questions for Laura Holly. Not yet. >> The the high school my goal is the high school will be receiving a tilt skillet. Yes. And it was >> Yeah. It's a I mean, I've I've shared that with Scott and Crystal that it's on the um the the plan, you know, the plan. Um and actually at this conference, it was a good opportunity for me to show my staff and introduce that because it's a very different piece of equipment than what they've ever seen. So to be able to see that and was able to make some connections and um we have a couple of opportunities to go to a um vendor and do some on-site training as we are narrowing down between um which which one Laura dreams of.
092So other questions for Laura. >> Thank you. Jenna. >> All right. This summer, I focused on updating the section 504 folders across all of the buildings. They are now uniform districtwide, which should make it easier for secretaries to file paperwork, for staff to access paper copies, and most importantly, for our students if they move to a new district. With this change, there's less of a chance that a 504 plan could be overlooked, which we know can happen sometimes. Um, I also attended many meetings and trainings and took some vacation days here and there. Um, on a personal note, I also completed the requirements to move from a conditional to a professional certification as assistant director of special education. Uh, the main DOE is currently processing the final steps. I took the last class this summer.
093on to staffing. Um, over the summer we held many interviews and were able to fill several posi positions. However, we are starting the school year with six open edtech positions. >> Hopefully, by the end of this meeting, the teacher vacancy will be filled. Um, let me see. Um I um I know Laura showed you a video, but I can't imagine the video does justice of um what the primary school cafeteria actually looks like. Um I was able to see it in all of its glory when she was putting the fin the finishing touches on it and stuff. and you walk in and it makes you feel uh great and it makes you feel like the the Spruce Mountain Phoenix spirit is screaming in there and the kids are going to be so proud of it.
094And I told Laura, I was like, "You need to stand there and take a video of their little faces when they walk down that tunnel." Uh because as a 38-year-old walking down that tunnel, I was amazed. Um and it's gorgeous. Um, I do want to give a special shout out to the teachers and edte that have worked in their classrooms this summer. Um, of course going to all the buildings, I see administrators, janitors, uh, some transportation and stuff and we're all paid to be here and those teachers and edte are not paid to put their classrooms together early. And um I went to several buildings multiple days in a row and they were there multiple days in a row uh getting their boards ready for welcome back to school night and all that stuff. So
095um I just wanted to share that. Um so I am just going to cover the open edtech positions. We are um you know we're still making postings. We're still reaching out. There was a point this summer where we are feeling pretty good. Uh but last minute we had a few edtes that actually transferred to other edtech positions in the district that were not special ed and um we're just grateful that we were able to keep those edte in district and I don't blame them because they were positions that paid them more and what are you going to do right so um we do have an open edtech one position in the behavior program at the primary school luckily we have uh the same person uh who has been doing this for a year or more
096now that is willing to do long-term subbing in there. So, the staff and students um are comfortable with her and she's great and we have tried to convince her to to work year round well to uh you know become an official employee but she likes knowing that she can take a vacation if she wants even though she's incredibly dedicated to our kids. Um, we have an edtech 2 in the behavior program at the elementary school, an edtech 2 in the resource room at the middle school, two edtech 1's in the life skills room at the high school, and an edtech one in the resource room at the high school. So, when it comes to 504 numbers, um, at the high school, we are starting the year with 42 students with 504 plans and one referral.
097At the middle school, we are starting the year with 18 students with 504 plans and we have two referrals in the middle school. At the elementary school, there are 20 students with 504 plans and one referral. And at the primary school, um there are seven students with 504 plans and one referral at the primary school. So in June, I told you our total number was 91. We've already had some students transfer out of district. So technically we're sitting at 87 plus the five that are in referral. So our numbers really, you know, are very similar to what they were at the end of the year. I do anticipate though that there will continue to be a lot of movement. That's just the way it works at the beginning of the school year for the first
098few weeks. We'll have a lot of transfers. Questions for Jenna. Thank you. Thanks. We're going to take a five minute bathroom break. >> Go. Go. You're the closest. You should be the first one. I just need to work. Okay. Uh my report um so buildings and grounds has a meeting September 3rd at 10:00 a.m. um with Seammens. Is there a member of Buildings and Grounds at >> Oh, you did. Okay. Confirm me. uh September 3rd at 10 a.m. >> Yeah, if you're >> if you're free. >> He's going to talk they're going to talk about the boilers. >> Um I would also like to welcome students and staff uh next week. I'm excited for a brand new school year. Um, I know we have a lot of new staff members and uh hopefully we'll have
099a successful year. That's all I have. So, I will entertain a motion for the first reading policy ACDC, Coordination of Federal and State Law. Motion by Tanya, second by Holly. Discussion. >> Elaine, >> can we have an explanation of how we got the exact wording of this policy? After our meeting on the 26th when the v the majority of the board voted to move in this direction when it comes to athletics and private spaces I sent that directly to Drummond and Woodom and they are the ones that drafted this language >> and Okay, thank you. I just wanted to be clear. >> I would like to make a statement. I didn't do it under pol uh under board comments because I'd rather do it directly under policy. I respect the rights afforded by law of
100every student, professional, staff member, and each member of the board of directors. I may respectfully disagree with their opinions, but it's my responsibility to afford them the right to express them. It's also my responsibility to honor and uphold the oath of office I took when I was elected to this board. I raised my hand and swore to quote faithfully discharge to the best of my abilities the duties incumbent on me as a school director of RSU73 according to the constitution and laws of this state. So help me God." unquote. The proposed policy changes presented in policy AC/DC, coordination of federal and state law, is not in compliance with standing law. The state of Maine, several other states, as well as students and their families are involved in larger legal battles with the Justice Department over
101interpretation of title 9 and the application of Executive Order 14201. and they are active and moving towards trial. These suits are in their earliest stages. The case of in the state of Maine challenge is still in its discovery stage with evidence from both sides not due to the court until December 19th, 2025. All legal opinions available to this board agree the final decision of the court will establish the perimeters of the law. At this time, it's premature to change policy until the courts have rendered a decision. I respect that personal opinions may differ on the essence of transgender rights in sports. We've listened to many differing opinions in public comments and I respect the right of those citizens to express their opinions. Some have included biblical passages to to support their opinions. Some members of
102the board have introduced themselves as Christians leading me to assume their direct decisions might be led by their beliefs. That is their right. While they may be influenced by some of the same biblical passages shared in public comments, they may want to consider a number of biblical passages that direct Christians to respect and obey the laws of government and to submit to government authority such as in Romans 13 1-7, 1 Peter 2:13-17, and in Titus 3:es 1-3. RSU73 has policies and rules. Individual buildings have rules for staff and students to abide by. Our board has policies on conduct and ethics to follow. Our country and our state have laws. Individuals have a right to disagree with those laws. They have the right to pursue altering or changing laws through legally afforded channels. But they cannot
103simply decide to change any rules or laws they find issue with independent of the system. If this board approves the policy proposed policy change, it will be in opposition of settled main law. While the main human rights commission has stated they will not take action against school districts that align with the executive order at this time, it does state schools could still face lawsuits from individuals or families. In conclusion, I take my oath of office as a sworn responsibility. My oath is a value of character. I was raised of respect and honor. rights are balanced with respect and responsibilities. I will honor my responsibility and oath by voting no on this proposed policy. I fully support the current policy. I accept that once litigation has concluded and the courts have issued a decision, it may
104be necessary to change current policy. I will honor the decision of the courts. I urge each member of this board of directors to honor their oath of office and faithfully discharge their duties according to the Constitution and the laws of the state of Maine. >> Any other comments? Holly, >> I'd like to make a proposal of changing of some of the wording of the policy. Copies of what I recommend. Yes, my motion would be to send it back to the policy committee to make the changes noted on what I just passed out. My suggestion would be if we vote on what's on the floor right now, we can make revisions between the first and second readings. >> Okay. >> Is there any discussion on the original motion? >> Am I able to ask Holly a
105question? like based on why she revised it this way specifically. >> Point of order. >> Okay. >> Is this a motion right now or is this an amendment that you're proposing right now as a motion or are we dealing with just the main motion? >> We're dealing with the original motion. >> Okay. Okay, thank you. >> After after this. Yeah. I'm not really sure where we're going with this. If if there is an amendment being offered, then the thing to do is to offer that amendment. We vote on that amendment and then we vote on the main on on the overall proposal. You vote whether or not to amend it before you vote whether or not to accept. But it's going back the motion >> so it can be changed there and then >> right
106if if that's what you're going to do then the motion would be to abandon this reading and send it back to the policy committee. Right? That's the that that would be a totally different thing. Right. That's I think what we're trying Yeah. Good idea. So withdraw the original motion. >> Is that what you're saying? the original, >> right? >> I made the first one. >> Okay. I make a motion that I would draw my motion to accept this as I second that. We have to vote. >> Yeah. are the motion and then sending it back in one motion. First, >> I don't >> I'd like to make a motion that we send the um draft of AC/DC back to the committee with proposed changes. I am looking for nominations for a representative from the board
107to attend foster tech meetings. This is part of the Foster Tech Advisory Board. We've had a board member on there for the last three years. Uh maximum they meet once a month on Friday mornings. Minimum it would be once every other month on a Friday morning >> up at Foster Tech. It's usually a two hour hour and a half to two hour meeting. I'm willing to participate if um voted or do I need to make a motion? >> I I'd be interested in doing it also since I had a son that was in foster tech. [Laughter] Roger has a question. I >> uh the school the school board action to authorize uh school administrators to suspend students for up to 10 days for the upcoming school year 25 26 grades 6 through 12. Could I
108get a motion? >> Second. >> We don't have to do them separately, right? >> You can do them all together. >> Yeah, >> that's fine. >> TJ, Mark, Keller, Chris Target, all administrators for that. Any discussion? Um, can I ask why um high school and middle school have 10 days? >> It's the law. It's the state law now. >> Thank you. I was just wondering why it used to all be 10 days. Um, they dropped it to three. I know there was discussion. There was some bills uh that went before this year, but I don't believe any of them went through changing it back. >> Okay. Thank you. Um, I actually think it should just be the principles just for consistency, you know, instead of having an assistant principal. Also, I think the final I
109mean, they can obviously talk, but I think it should be the principal. >> Assistant principal has the right by law to suspend if you guys give them If you vote. >> Yeah. If you vote, >> you don't want to hamstring people as much as you can. I mean, >> Yeah. Well, he's the only he's the only one that's an he's the only building that we have an actual assistant principal. The dean is because they do not have an administrative certificate. >> Okay. Thanks. >> Any other discussion? All those in favor? >> I. All those opposed. Motion carries. A motion to have the school board authorize school administrators to suspend students for three days for the upcoming school year 25 26 prek to fi hold on prek to five. Uh Patrick Sinclair and Dowsy Shank. >>
110Thank you. Discussion. All those in favor? >> I. >> All those opposed? Motion carries. Action on substitute rates through June 30, 2026. >> The only change in the rates from the past year is the certified teacher because that's based on the PDM rate of the bachelor scale. and the bachelor scale of course went up. So that's the only change uh that we're asking for. The rest are the same. >> I'd like to make a motion that we uh accept this substitute scale as presented. >> Second >> discussion. All those in favor. >> All those opposed. Motion carries. I entertain a motion to enter into executive session discuss personnel matter pursuant to 1 MRSA 4056A. >> All those in favor I will entertain a motion to approve the nomination of Dina students and special ed teacher
111at the Spruce Mountain Middle School. >> Any discussion? >> All those in favor? >> All those opposed? Motion carries. And finally, last but certainly not least, um, superintendent evaluations will be emailed to you um, by Laura. And if you could get those, fill those out and get those back to me by end of week next week. Um, we will um, discuss them at our next meeting. Okay. So, the policy committee meeting is September 22nd, not August and our next meeting is September 11th. I will take a motion to adjourn. >> I'm sorry. >> Question on the personel. Sorry, the personnel information are all four of those last names um actually resignations. >> Okay, thank you. >> Can I get a motion to >> All those in favor?