SUMNER — Interim Superintendent Michael Cormier suggested that the Regional School Unit 10 board look into getting on the state’s list for a new school or building renovations now.

“You have schools that could benefit,” he told the board Monday night. “Have the school facilities committee look at this.”

Getting a proposal on a state list usually requires several years.

Following the meeting, Buildings and Grounds Committee member Jerry Wiles said he expects his committee to meet soon to discuss Cormier’s suggestion.

Cormier said when a building or renovation plan is proposed, the state will send a team to study the district and its proposal.

“It’s a great opportunity — you want to get on the list,” he said. “If you don’t, other districts will pursue the money.”

Also on Monday, the board extended Cormier’s contract to at least Nov. 21, which is the day Superintendent Deborah Alden of Leeds is expected to begin her duties.

She is special education director at Regional School Unit 52 in Turner.

Cormier offered to assist in the transition, if needed.

In other business, the board approved the purchase of three new school buses at a total cost of $261,600. Money will be borrowed from Bangor Savings Bank at an annual interest rate of 1.9 percent. The state is expected to reimburse the district for the cost of two of the buses through state subsidy.

The board welcomed new Buckfield Junior-Senior High School student representative Mae Kolln. She replaces senior Simon Burch, who is unable to continue in the position.

Newly hired staff are Brianna Palmer, grade-one teacher at Meroby Elementary School in Mexico; Beth Sharples, Buckfield school nutrition service worker; Valerie Patenaude, Sumner school special education educational technician; and Kimberly Russell, special education educational technician at Meroby school.

The next regular board meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. Sept. 26.

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