LIVERMORE FALLS — The Regional School Unit 73 board of directors voted Thursday to move forward with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges accreditation process for Spruce Mountain High School if a funding source becomes available.
During the 2017-18 school budget process, money had been removed that would have funded accreditation work, which has been ongoing since last year. Superintendent Kenneth Healey said although there wasn’t money in the school budget for it, he would look for other ways to pay for the work.
He added that even if money through grants or other sources isn’t available, “I’m going to have teachers give you that report and report on what they need. Being accredited is not only good for the community, but it certifies that we’re meeting the national standards.”
“This is a lot of work the teachers have done,” agreed board Chairwoman Denise Rodzen. “It’s a lot of soul searching for them.”
Director Tammy Frost said she was upset that money for the accreditation process was eliminated from the budget.
“I question where we will find the money,” she said. “I feel the teachers have done a lot of work and they should be acknowledged.”
Healey said the cost of accreditation is about $16,000, including a visit to the school by New England Association of Schools and Colleges representatives. The process is done every 10 years.
“Procedurewise, and coming back 13th hour, that’s my concern, especially considering some of the things we’ve knocked out (of the budget) that people are passionate about,” Director Joel Pike said.
Healey said he was grateful to Jay, Livermore and Livermore Falls residents who voted for the school budget June 13. Each town voted in favor of the budget, which Healey said was a “wonderful surprise.”
RSU 73 has advertised for a new business manager. So far, Healey said, four applications have been received, with interviews scheduled for June 27.
Transportation Director Ken Vining said he was negotiating a contract for bus maintenance with Bailey Brothers Ford of Livermore Falls. He noted that RSU 73 didn’t get interest from any other companies.
The next board meeting is at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, at the Superintendent’s Office in Livermore Falls.