By Ellie Fellers,Special to the Sun Journal

GRAY – Retiring teachers and outgoing school board members were recognized this week by SAD 15 directors.

Vice Chairman James Hutchinson of New Gloucester was praised for his leadership during six years of service. Hutchinson served on the district’s personnel and facilities committees. A member of the contract negotiating team for the district, he was praised by Superintendent Virginia Burns for his dedicated service to the community.

He is not seeking re-election.

Gray board members Dawn Perry and Sandy MacDonald’s terms are ending next week. MacDonald is seeking re-election after serving for a year. Bailey has served six years and is not seeking re-election.

The board honored two retiring high school teachers, Harvey Monahan, a 37-year veteran, and Anthony Russo, who served for more than 30 years.

Dick MacDonald, a 32-year elementary school physical education teacher, Betty Googins, a 17-year food service worker, and Sharon Nelson of the Dunn School with 19 years with the district, were honored.

Paul Penna and his staff presented a new block schedule program for the fall.

“Everything needs to be tied to an educational plan. We need to be more structured,” Penna said.

One goal of the plan includes revamping study halls so students receive structured academic support. Grade level study halls with grade level teachers will be set up for students for the first time.

The schedule also allows for a 40-minute extended instructional period with expanded opportunities for students. That allows more project work completion time and research opportunities for students.

Teachers also will have an additional 40-minute planning block.

Board Chairman Alan Rich praised the effort to overcome “institutional inertia.”

Other board members commended the teachers for contributing to change a system that needed revamping.

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