MEXICO — More than 160 students at the Region 9 School of Applied Technology will be treated to the traditional cookout prepared by staff when they return to vocational classes on Sept. 1 and 2.

The new school year brings a variety of changes including a new vocational program in fire science taught by Peru resident, firefighter and former Region 9 student, Craig Wade.

The program has been in the works for quite some time, and was adopted by the board because of the need for local firefighters and a survey of students.

Another major change involves the location of English classes for most vocational students.

Director Brenda Gammon said vocational students from Dirigo and Mountain Valley high schools will receive English classes at their sending schools and will then be bused to Region 9 for the remainder of the day.

Gammon said the change was made at DHS and MVHS because of the increasing difficulty students have with trying to meet all academic requirements.

The change was also made so that DHS and MVHS students would not be pulled from their vocational classes.

Telstar High School students will continue to receive English classes at Region 9.

Also new this year is a graphics design class taught by computer technology instructor Ruth Brown, and new receptionist/nutrition program coordinator, Debbie Nokes of Rumford.

The adult and community education segment of Region 9 will begin classes after Labor Day. The brochure is expected to be distributed during the next couple of weeks.

Gammon said the board and staff have a considerable amount of work to do on policy development, job descriptions and professional development to satisfy state requirements. Also, new safety committees and mentoring programs will be in the works as the year progresses.

Staff begins the school year with two workshop days on Aug. 30 and Aug. 31.

Gammon is looking forward to the beginning of the upcoming school year.

“I’m excited to get the students and staff back,” she said.