Stratton School closure on table for MSAD #58 school board meeting on Jan. 31

Mountaineer Audio Files contain complete discussion
Compiled by David Hart
Mountaineer Report

SALEM — Under budgetary talks during last Thursday’s MSAD #58 school board meeting, superintendent Brenda Joy Stevens outlined a plan and started the dialog on closing the Stratton School. The board plans to discuss the issue in depth in a Tuesday night meeting on Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m. at Mt. Abram High School.

It was estimated that the savings could net a half a million dollars for the upcoming budget for the 2012/2013 school year. Based on anticipated cuts from the Department of Education, Stevens explained, merging two schools together is worthy of a detailed discussion.

Stevens explained that over the years they have made many cuts, merged positions and reduced programs. To achieve this kind of savings without closing a school would be the equivalent of reducing 12 teaching positions.

MSAD #58 chairperson Judy Dill agreed it was time to bring this to the table.

Directors acknowledged that if two-thirds of the board agreed to close the school, voters of Eustis could save their school by agreeing to raise the amount of money which is saved by the closure, (roughly $500,000).

The voters of Eustis could also vote to leave MSAD #58 and join another district. This is a lengthy process involving an act of legislation.

Listen to the complete audio files to hear the school board members discuss the beginning of this emotional issue. Also hear from Strong resident and former long-term school board director Mike Pond who advises the board.

Written material that was distributed at the meeting are included as attachments below. Revised agenda for the MSAD #58 School Board meeting on Jan. 31 is also contained below.

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AUDIOS

School Board enrollment discussion
1-19-12 School Board discussion of the need for significant cuts
1-19-12 School Board Part 3 discussion of the need for significant cuts
1-19-12 School Board Part 4 Stratton School closure – Sue Fotter reacts 3
1-19-12 School Board Part 5 Board members set date to discuss Stratton School closure

Attachments