The Gorham School Committee convened their monthly meeting on Oct. 11. With six members present, they unanimously approved the minutes of the September meeting.

The first program review item was the Great Falls Allied Arts Program. Principal Becky Fortier introduced her staff members and seven fifth-grade students spoke passionately about the arts program in the elementary schools. One student, Christopher, stated that art class in particular, involves creativity and problem solving. “If I make a mistake, it just becomes part of my project because mistakes are a part of life.” All three elementary schools have dynamic programs that motivate and inspire children.

The second program reviewed was the RTI program, which incorporates student support in reading, math and counseling and social work. The discussion was led by Kim Fadrigan, the Curriculum Coordinator for grades K-5, Quinton Donahue, GMS Principal and Brian Jandreau, GHS Principal. Each highlighted the supports in place for students and the data for entry and exit into each of these supports.

Fadrigan outlined the three tier supports for students and the scientifically based programs that are used with students. Donahue detailed the work of their lab teachers and counselors and social workers. Each team of teachers meets every four to six weeks to review student progress and growth. Jandreau outlined the support process and methods for assisting student success with lots of communication among staff and parents, the 9th grade academies where groups of teachers work with

the same students, use of the Ram Lab and the Roosevelt Room, adjusting schedules, and use of their on-line resources and assisted studies.

The third program review was the Reveal Math program which was adopted by K-8 two years ago. Fadrigan highlighted the successes of the program and the continuity of math instruction throughout the grades. Donahue, Jandreau and Melanie Doran, the math support specialist at GMS also relayed their observations.

Superintendent Heather Perry provided an update on the ten-year capital plan for the district. Several of the buildings are aging and will need continued work in the coming years. It is her intent to submit two plans for new buildings as part of the state funding program but even if approved are a long way away.

As part of the superintendent’s report, Perry spoke about the NWEA testing that is being conducted at this time and in the spring as part of the state testing program. She also informed the committee that as an unexpected consequence of the state law concerning family leave, the school district will need to budget an additional $300,000 for next year. She also commented on staffing and mentioned the continued need for substitute teachers and two trainings that they conducted to address the need. Sarah Perkins congratulated Superintendent Perry on receiving an Outstanding Business Award from SMCC.

Prior to the elections, James Brockman and Nicole Hudson were thanked by Chairperson Perkins for their hard work and dedication to the committee and the school system. In addition, Vice Chair Anne Schools thanked Sarah Perkins for her leadership and efforts. Of the three, only Perkins is running for reelection.

Each committee member reported on their subcommittee work and the schedule for upcoming meetings.

Before going into executive session for consideration of the School Committee’s self-evaluation, they had a first reading of the Graduation Policy (IKF). The only notable change was reducing the health credit from a full credit to one half credit. Committee members will review the policy and report back in future meetings.