Now that the Board of Directors has approved a 5-year Short-Term Facilities Plan that will provide additional modular classroom space to handle the current and projected enrollment increases, MSAD #51 is turning its attention to developing a long-term plan for permanently solving the space issue as a result of the failed bond referendum in November. In order to help with understanding the need for a long-term solution, here are some key points to consider:
- The district's overall enrollment has been increasing since 2015. Projections from 2009 showing a decrease in enrollment never occurred.
- Three enrollment reports conducted in 2016, 2019, and 2022 have confirmed increasing enrollment for the foreseeable future.
- MSAD #51 is a 4-facility school district and is currently short by one facility for the current and project enrollment needs.
- The district is projected to gain another 350 students by 2031-32 above today's enrollment.
- We have exceeded capacity at Mabel I. Wilson School since 2015.
- Mabel I. Wilson School has increased by 225 students since 2015 with 779 students expected in 2023-24.
- We have exceeded capacity at Greely Middle School since 2021.
- Greely Middle School will begin a rapid enrollment expansion beginning in 2024-25, with over 1,000 students in grades 4-8 expected within 5 years, up 215 students from the current school population.
- The school campus will have 29 modular classrooms starting in August 2023.
I want to wish all of our students, staff, and families a wonderful upcoming winter break.
Regards,
Jeff Porter