Every seat in the council chamber was filled for the April 12 regular School Committee (SC) meeting in anticipation of two presentations and passage of the proposed F24 School Budget.
The Village Elementary School Civil Rights Team, introduced by Assistant Principal Cheryl Fotter and faculty advisor Lexi Cadell, showed a video describing how they value difference, and the categories of identity they focus on to make all students feel welcome in the school.
The categories are skin color, religion, national origin, disability, gender, and sexual orientation. Some of the twenty-four members of the team, all 4th and 5th graders, spoke about why they joined the team and described their ongoing activities and upcoming events.
Tim Spear, Gorham Schools athletic director, introduced the captains of the winter sports teams. The students spoke briefly about what participating in sports meant to them. They emphasized the bonds created with teammates. Along with learning to manage their time and developing skills, the athletes also enjoyed representing Gorham at competitions.
Chairman Darryl Wright thanked the students, as did the other SC members. He complimented the Civil Rights Team on their impressive, well-planned presentation and for making sure everyone at Village felt welcome. He said the community can be proud of Gorham athletes for the way they conduct themselves when competing with other schools.
The School Committee voted unanimously to pass the F24 budget. The consensus was that although it was substantially less than the original one proposed by district administrators, unfortunately, it represented an increase of 12.64% over the F23 one. However, further cuts would have seriously affected educational priorities. Each member spoke briefly about why they supported the committee’s budget, which will now go to the Town Council for approval.
Superintendent Heather Perry announced that there will be a change in the Title 1 funding formula which may result in a reduction of funds for Gorham. She said that there are three new licensed bus drivers and others in training, so the district will be fully staffed for the coming year. Gorham has been acknowledged as a leader in the state of Maine for extended learning opportunities for career connections through the Aspire program.
Two policies were approved, one about the use of school facilities and grounds, and the other clarifying that a request related to instructional and library materials must come from a parent of a child who is a Gorham resident.
The committee tabled consideration and action on modular leases and expansion until a special meeting later in the month.