MEXICO – The vocational school plans to go after no-interest state loans and grants that could eventually provide funds for an elevator, roof work, other interior modifications, and even additional classroom space.

The Region 9 School of Applied Technology board agreed to allow Director Deborah Guimont to begin the long-term paperwork required that could net up to $100,000 for installation of an elevator, and an unspecified additional amount for other school improvement projects.

The funding would come from $21 the Maine Department of Education has for health and safety issues, and for upgrades and remodeling of learning spaces under the Revolving Renovation Fund created by the state Legislature in 1998.

Guimont said the installation of an elevator would bring the school in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. She also will pursue funding for extending the wall between the metal and building trades classrooms, and for making repairs to the flashing on the school’s roof.

A later application may be submitted for creating additional classroom space.

She said pursuit of the state money is a long project that includes not only the involved application process, but also an affirmative vote by district residents.

In other matters, adults living in SAD 44 will for the first time have two vocational courses taught at Telstar High School in Bethel through the Region 9 adult education program.

Beginning in September, if a sufficient number of adults enroll, truck driving and certified nursing assistant programs will be offered. Both courses have been regularly offered to adults in the SAD 21/SAD 43 area.

Nancy Murphy, director of Region 9 adult education, said CNA class work will take place at Telstar High School, the lab work at the Region 9 school, and the clinical practice at area nursing homes.

Also at Tuesday’s meeting, the board approved spending up to $2,500 for the installation of two 20-by-12-foot concrete pads in front of the bay door to the forestry and metal trades programs. The pads will be put into place while the front parking lot of the school is being paved.

Preparation for the paving began Tuesday. The actual lot should be completed by Aug. 28. The board previously approved a contract for nearly $49,000 for Bruce Manzer of Anson to complete the paving project.

The board also approved a reduction from full-time to three-fifths time for student services coordinator Cheryl Ellis when she returns to work next month and agreed to grant Murphy a three-year contract providing she completes certification as an adult education director by the end of the school year.

Following the public portion of the meeting, the board entered into a closed session with forestry instructor Marc Dupuis to discuss personnel negotiations.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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