Update from the Superintendent - September 23, 2024

This is the third segment in a multi-part series around the 2024-25 district strategic priorities. The Strategic Plan identifies wellness as the foundation of learning and teaching, and one way that wellness is being prioritized this year is by stressing the importance of regular school attendance.

Why are we prioritizing attendance? The state of Maine requires that districts track and report data for chronic absenteeism, which is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason. During the 2023-24 year, 8.3% (or 183 students district-wide) were considered chronically absent in our schools, with 12% at GHS; 6.8% at GMS 6-8; 6.5% at GMS 4-5; and 7.0% at MIW. Though the data in 2023-24 was an improvement over the prior year's rate of 13.2%, there is still a long way to go to meet the district's target of less than 5% of our students classified as chronically absent.

One daily habit can set your child up for success for years to come: Showing up at school in person as often as possible. When children and teens regularly attend school in person, they’re more likely to develop their whole selves—personally, socially, academically, and emotionally. They’re routinely able to connect with friends and adults, collaborate and problem-solve, make decisions, think critically, be creative, and engage in hands-on learning.

How you can support your child's regular school attendance: 
Establish Routines: Create a consistent sleep schedule and morning routine to help students feel prepared for school. 
Communicate with School: Reach out to your child's teachers if they're facing challenges that might impact attendance. 
Celebrate Attendance: Acknowledge and celebrate good attendance habits. 
Attend School Events: Show your support for education by actively participating in school events and meetings.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the upcoming departures of two long-time district staff members. Scott Poulin, the district's Director of Finance, Human Resources, and Operations has announced his retirement, effective at the end of December. I wish to thank Scott for his 27 years of service to MSAD #51 overseeing all non-educational areas of the school organization. Additionally, I would like to thank Sue Fuller, who will be retiring from her role in the Finance Office handling accounting and payroll for the last 24 years. On behalf of the MSAD #51 school community, my gratitude and very best wishes to both Scott and Sue for well-deserved retirements.

As a result of these retirements, organizational adjustments moving forward as we search for replacements include advertising for a Director of Business Services who will be responsible for all non-educational/business operations for the district. A new Finance Manager position will supervise all aspects of the budget and financial operations for the district. Finally, the current HR specialist position will be reclassified as a Human Resources Coordinator. These adjustments are intended to be collectively budget-neutral and responsive to the current and future needs of the district and its stakeholders.