The joint Gorham High School (GHS) Renovation & Expansion Committee & Athletic Capital Campaign Committee is currently examining the condition of Gorham’s high school facility and athletic fields to determine an approach to addressing Gorham’s very real needs.
The committees gained a great deal of insight from the thousand plus people that participated in the spring ThoughtExchange that was sent through email and were thrilled to hear from so many community members, parents, staff members, and students. They are earnestly reviewing all input and deeply appreciate everyone’s participation.
The survey asked, “What are the most important things for us to consider as we develop a plan for the renovation/expansion of the GHS building and associated athletic facilities?”
The following themes were highly rated by parents/guardians, staff and community members:
Planning for future growth: Grow smart. Make it big enough so that a few years from now Gorham is not having the same issues with crowding.
Capacity and classroom space: Enough quality space for all to get an effective education. School is foremost about ensuring everyone is afforded an equal chance at a basic education for being productive members of the community.
Safety and security: Creating a safe and welcoming space. Students need to feel comfortable and safe in order to learn.
Budget: Providing the best facilities for students while considering the financial impact on the town. Concern about increased taxes for those on fixed incomes.
The following themes were highly rated by students:
Parking: Parking is a struggle in Gorham, so it’s important to plan that out.
HVAC and bathroom facilities: Students would like AC. When warmer weather comes it starts to get hot in the classrooms and people won’t be able to focus.
Design and Layout: Make it a nice and welcoming place because Gorham should want people to feel welcome at GHS.
The joint committees are continuing to meet this school year in order to bring a plan to referendum to address the above needs and others that have come to the surface through Gorham’s careful study.
The Gorham School Committee and Town Council have communicated with each other throughout this process about a target date for referendum. The specific referendum date could still change, however, the current target is November of 2019.
The ThoughtExchange results can be reviewed here. Stay tuned for the next steps of this process.