At the start of the September 12 meeting, School Committee (SC) members heard from several parents who spoke in opposition to aspects of the new transportation policy. They believed it should be more flexible in order to accommodate family situations and students in after-school programs not associated with certified daycare facilities. In addition to affecting students, they felt that the regulations would have a negative effect on working parents and single parents.

Superintendent Heather Perry reported that there were 28 new teachers in the district at the beginning of the school year and that open houses were held at all five schools. All the principals spoke about the first few weeks, focusing on some of the highlights.

Bob Riley reported that there are 630 students at the Middle School. He noted that an informal survey indicated that about 90% of 6th graders had smart phones and emphasized the importance of responsible use of all devices. Brian Jandreau, principal of Gorham High School, said that they have invited Gorham police to have lunch with students every Thursday. Elementary school principals were all enthusiastic about the climate of cooperation in their schools and thanked Norman Justice and his maintenance team for improvements made over the summer.

Justice reported on the work done over the summer, particularly in preparing sites for the new portables which he calls “modular buildings” because of the extensive foundation and utility work they require. Among many completed projects, they resurfaced the tennis courts and the track at GHS, modified buildings to provide a better use of limited space, and did necessary painting in several schools.

Perry gave a brief report on the goals of the 2018-19 PBL Action Plan, which has an emphasis on consistency of practice and grading, strength in the skills for life policy, and improved communication about PBL with students, parents and staff.

Plans for the new regional education alliance for shared services are ongoing, although Gorham voters will vote on membership in a November referendum. The alliance is seeking a grant for leadership training, one of the services the organization is scheduled to provide.

The Committee voted (4-2, Benson, Currier; Libby absent) to approve the 2018-19 Superintendent’s Goals. Because there was concern that diversity goals were not included, some felt that the motion should be tabled until the October meeting, but the approved motion included wording that allows amendments.