South Portland Board of Education

Updated 3 days ago

South Portland Board of Education - June 9 2025

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SPBoE June 9 2025 Agenda (pdf, 1.76 MB, opens in new window/tab)

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:06)
The meeting was called to order and roll call was conducted with all members present.

The meeting of the South Portland School Board was called to order on Monday. Roll call was conducted with all members present: Ms. DeAngelos, Mr. Dowling, Ms. Holman, Ms. Ratliff, Ms. Rauser, Ms. Richardson, Ms. Shen, Ms. Kabisa, and Mr. Davison.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:27)
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all attendees at the meeting.

The board and attendees rose to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Opening Remarks and Meeting Protocols (00:00:49)
The board chair provided information on meeting protocols and public participation rights.

The board chair reminded attendees that the meeting is a public proceeding and outlined the rights of the public to hear discussions and view exhibits. Accessibility assistance was mentioned, and the use of Robert's Rules of Order was reaffirmed.
Welcome to Student Representatives (00:01:52)
New and returning student representatives were welcomed to the board for the coming year.

The board welcomed Angela, returning for her third year, and newcomer Alex Davison as student representatives. The importance of their role and the upcoming school budget referendum vote were highlighted.
Report of the Student Representative (00:03:31)
Angela provided updates on school events, achievements, and initiatives across the district.

Angela, the student representative, reported on recent events and achievements including graduation ceremonies, summer credit recovery, mental health initiatives, and arts accolades. She highlighted the efforts across high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools in the district.
Superintendent's Report (00:07:47)
The superintendent shared progress, achievements, and future plans for the school district.

The superintendent reported on increasing student attendance, improving school culture through PBIS, academic achievements such as SAT scores, and facilities improvements including safety upgrades. He also acknowledged the success of recent graduation ceremonies and the district's commitment to Special Olympics.
Recognitions and Awards (00:24:06)
Monica Malcolmson was honored for being named Cumberland County Teacher of the Year.

The board recognized Monica Malcolmson, a second-grade teacher at Brown School, for her outstanding contributions and recent accolade as Cumberland County Teacher of the Year. Her dedication to student engagement and community building was celebrated.
Retirement Recognitions (00:29:30)
Nine retirees were honored for their decades of service and contributions to the district.

The board celebrated the retirement of nine staff members who collectively contributed over 250 years of service. Each retiree was presented with a token of appreciation for their commitment and impact on the district and its students.
Recognition of Retiring Teachers (00:38:37)
The meeting recognized retiring teachers for their contributions, with many expressing gratitude and sharing personal anecdotes.

Several speakers expressed their gratitude to retiring teachers for their dedication and impact on students' lives. Personal stories and reflections were shared, highlighting the positive influence these educators had on the community.
Superintendent's Report (00:43:40)
The superintendent provided updates on enrollment, staffing changes, and community partnerships, emphasizing volunteer contributions and career exploration initiatives.

The superintendent discussed the upcoming enrollment decline due to a large graduating class and a smaller incoming kindergarten class. Staffing changes included a resignation and new appointments. The report also highlighted the importance of community partnerships and volunteer efforts, with detailed descriptions of programs like the Locker Project and career exploration opportunities for students.
Community Partnerships and ELO Programs (01:07:02)
Discussion on the role of community partners and ELO programs in supporting learners, with positive feedback and experiences shared by board members.

Board members expressed gratitude towards community partners who support learners, particularly focusing on the ELO (Extended Learning Opportunities) programs. Personal experiences were shared, highlighting the positive impact on students, including opportunities to explore interests and gain valuable experiences. The board was informed about plans to establish an Education Foundation over the summer, with legal and structural work to be initiated.
Safety and Security Upgrades (01:11:08)
Director of Operations, Mike Nally, presented plans for safety upgrades in elementary schools, including secure vestibules and security cameras.

Mike Nally, Director of Operations and Safety, discussed upcoming safety upgrades for elementary schools. The plan includes installing secure vestibules and security cameras. The secure vestibules will be implemented using referendum funds, with work planned for this summer and next. The process involves concept drawings, stakeholder feedback, and public bidding. Security cameras will be installed this summer, offering enhanced surveillance capabilities. Questions on timelines and equity were addressed.
Grant Awards and Pre-K Update (01:20:19)
Announcement of two grant awards and an update on pre-K partnerships, involving community school and climate education grants.

Johanna Prince, Assistant Superintendent, announced two grant awards—one for the community school initiative and another for climate education. The community school grant is a continuation of previous funding, supporting the community school director and family engagement events. The climate education grant involves collaboration with environmental science experts and Wabanaki representatives. Additionally, an update on pre-K partnerships was given, including collaboration with Chickadee for pre-K seats and future plans with United Way.
ESEA Title Funds Update (01:25:28)
Overview of ESEA Title funds, including Title I and IV allocations, funding challenges, and the impact on local budgets.

The board was briefed on ESEA Title funds, focusing on Title I and IV allocations. South Portland has seen a decrease in these funds, impacting professional development opportunities rather than positions. The allocations are delayed due to federal processes. The board was informed about how these funds will be used to support family engagement, MTSS coordinators, and intervention teachers. Concerns about future federal funding and its impact on local budgets were discussed.