The Gorham School Committee met for their monthly meeting on Jan. 14, 2026. All seven members were present and they approved the minutes of the regular meeting of Dec. 10 and the special meeting of Dec. 16. (7-0)

There were three presentations during the meeting. The first was a group of five GMS students presenting the Second Step Program. Second Step is an evidence-based SEL (Social Emotional Learning) program that helps students to process feelings and to make good decisions. GMS principal Lucas Witham believes that the program, funded entirely by a grant, has led to better attendance and fewer disciplinary issues at the school.

The second, a review of the National Honor Society (NHS), was introduced by Principal Brian Jandreau and NHS advisor Luci Bowers. Four NHS officers presented their work this year, including organizing a blood drive, participating in a community giving tree, peer tutoring, organizing a bake sale and providing activities for the advisory groups. NHS is based on the pillars of scholarship, leadership, service and character. Forty-two members, who each submitted an application with evidence of these four pillars, were inducted this year.

The third presentation, an overview of Mental Health / Student Emotional Learning services in the Gorham school system, was presented by special education director Kathy Hamblen. She reviewed the important work of the school counselors and social workers in assisting students with communication skills, decision-making and dealing with stress, conflicts, social issues, grief and trauma. In addition, dealing with adolescence and career and college readiness are added primarily in the upper grades.

Superintendent Heather Perry continued her review of the State of the Schools Report with a summary of readiness skills for entering ninth graders, which include reading and math scores, academic grades, attendance, community service, career exploration and extracurricular activities. She also stated that the school department is conducting a planned review of federal IDEA funds and announced kindergarten information night in March and the availability of pre-k applications at this time.

Each committee member had the opportunity to report on their recent experiences and observations. Each subcommittee reported out on their most recent meetings and upcoming goals.

As part of their ongoing review of school department policies, the committee approved a second reading of a new policy, Temperature Standards for School (EBBD). (7-0) They also conducted a first reading of five policies: Student Use of Vehicles During the School Day (JLIE),
Motorized Vehicles on School Property (JLIF), School-Community Relations (KA), Parent Involvement in Title I (KBF) and Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Devices in Schools (JICJ).