Teacher Appreciation Week, held the week of May 1, was the subject of public comment at the May 10 regular meeting of the Gorham School Committee. Michelle Littlefield and Kelli, Deveaux, parents of Gorham students, read comments from their children praising their teachers. The two women spearheaded a project that put “We Love Gorham Schools” on lawns throughout the town.
Eliza Kenigsberg and Grace Olsen made a presentation reviewing the Extended Learning Opportunities program, part of the Aspire Gorham initiative. With a $250,000 grant from the Department of Education, they hired Olsen, who oversees the apprentice program. The experience gave teaching interns an appreciation of mentors, confidence in what careers they might choose, and experiences outside of their comfort zones. Thirty-five students were able to participate in internships with local businesses and a total of 70 were given the opportunity to explore careers in the community with more than 45 businesses. Some seniors with community internships will be eligible for $500 stipends.
The Gorham Adult Education program in cooperation with Westbrook had a record year, according to director Shelli Pride. They hired a new English language instructor. There are at least five graduates with high school diplomas. Eighteen are preparing for the HiSET test or preparing for college. There were 14 English Language Learners. Six students were in the “earn while you learn” CNA program at Gorham House. The first Certified Drivers License (CDL) class will be held this spring. There were 166 enrichment courses this year that enrolled 672 adult students.
Superintendent Heather Perry announced that NWEA assessment testing for students in grades 3-8 and 10th grade are beginning. She also said that the ESSER report was accepted. ESSER funds will be used to address potential COVID learning losses. She said that the Town Council will vote on the FY24 Budget on May 16 and that the approved budget will go to voters on June 13.
Among comments by SC members were a reminder on Mental Health Awareness Month from Nicole Hudson and congratulations to the GHS class of 2023 expressed by Stewart McCallister.
Members voted 7-0 to approve the revised policy on Public Concerns & Complaints that made clear that one must be a Gorham resident or parent of a Gorham student to use this opportunity. They also voted 7-0 to accept the Great Falls Construction Company bid of $1,558,352 for modular site work. They voted unanimously to extend 1st year probationary contracts and 2nd year continuing contracts to teachers on a list submitted by Superintendent Perry and to approve five new hires.