BETHEL — The SAD 44 board learned Monday night that the state has agreed to provide a $372,000 bond, which could pay for part of a new alternative-energy boiler for Telstar Regional Middle/High School.

Superintendent David Murphy said the state has agreed to provide the money at low or no interest. The boiler and installation is estimated to cost about $900,000.

Whether the district goes ahead with the purchase will be determined in March.

Murphy said the Facilities Committee will discuss the matter in the next few weeks.

The board also discussed additional security at the schools.

Murphy said he learned from the Oxford County Emergency Management Agency that grants are available for school security purchases. He said he has been working with area first responders to improve safety in the schools, and plans to hire a consultant to recommend additional security steps the district can make. Among those potential purchases are several security cameras.

Also on Monday, the board received the resignation of longtime district social worker Leslie Lufkin as of Feb. 1. The position will be advertised, Murphy said.

With the state’s recent curtailment of $75,960 in state aid to SAD 44, Murphy said the upcoming budget process will concentrate on the costs associated with operating each of the four school buildings.