MEXICO — Region 9 vocational students will meet several new staff members when they return to classes Sept. 4-5. Their parents will have an opportunity to attend a parent/student orientation session a week later.

Director Brenda Gammon said the new parent/student orientation session will take place at 6 p.m. Sept. 11 at the School of Applied Technology.

“We’ll talk about expectations, attendance, the grading system, specific vocational offerings, safety issues, and whether any special uniforms or equipment is needed for the program students have enrolled in,” Gammon said.

She said a week after the start of classes was scheduled because some students have not decided which program to attend.

“We encourage all parents to attend the orientation,” she said.

Also new this year are several new staff members, including well-known Dixfield area former teacher Jonathan Longley, who will teach the fire science course as it enters its second year. Longley replaces Craig Wade.

Other new instructors include David Mason as the forestry instructor, replacing Marc Dupuis who retired in June. He served as the educational technician in the program the previous school year. Mark Beaudoin will become Mason’s educational technician.

A newly created position for a floating educational technician who will help out in many of the vocational programs was filled by Chris Gorham. Randy Gallant of Mexico is the new full-time custodian. Carleton Dickey will serve as the late night custodian, and Lori Kersey will serve as the new lunch server and part-time custodian.

About 25 full- and part-time people work in the secondary vocational program.

The most popular of the eight vocational programs offered at Region 9 is the certified nursing assistant course. Openings exist in all programs, with the fewest in the CNA program.

In the adult and community education program, Kim Hamel was hired as the new full-time instructor, Duane Dorion as the new part-time instructor in mathematics, and Debra Murphy as the new part-time receptionist.

Also offered in the adult education department are enrichment classes and several Central Maine Community College courses.

Gammon said about 150 secondary students have enrolled so far.

Teacher workshops are set for Aug. 29-30.