JAY — Regional School Unit 73 directors need a long-term substitute teacher for special education students at Spruce Mountain High School to replace one who is leaving May 10.
“We are continuing to look for special education staff at the high school,” Jenna Cote, Section 504 coordinator/assistant special services director, told directors Thursday. “I was a special education teacher at the high school before I took over the Section 504 coordinator and assistant special education director in January.”
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, is legislation that guarantees certain rights to people with disabilities. Typically, a 504 coordinator will ensure the school district’s nondiscrimination statements, access information, grievance procedures and other disability-related policies are up-to-date, posted and distributed as required.
Director Roger Moulton of Livermore Falls asked what are the prerequisites for a long-term substitute.
Cote said the person needs to be qualified by the state and have a background check.
Superintendent Scott Albert said the person does not need to be one of the district’s substitutes.
“I find a lot of people are scared to sub at the high school,” Cote said. “They are scared of the content, feel it is over their heads.”
It is not the substitute’s responsibility to know all subject content; they can send students to get help from the teacher, she added.
In other business, student representative Avery Ryder said a Red Cross blood drive is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 23 at the high school. It is sponsored by Jobs for Maine Graduates and appointments are needed. Those wishing to donate should contact adviser Zach Keene at 207-897-4336 or zkeene@rsu73.com.
“Any student 16 or older or member of the community can donate blood,” Ryder added.
Resignations were accepted for high school English teacher Jayne Costa at the end of the school year and primary school physical education and health teacher Jane DiPompo, effective Dec. 31.
“I am very sad to see Mrs. DiPompo leaving,” Director Andrew Sylvester of Livermore said. “I have known her for the better part of the last 15 years. She helped us coach the junior ski team, the high school ski team. She was always there, very enthusiastic. As a parent, a coach, you couldn’t ask for a better supporter and we will miss her.”
Moulton said she was his gym teacher. He thanked her and wished her well.
Following an executive session, directors unanimously voted to allow a student to reenter. The student was expelled Dec. 4 for the peace and usefulness of the schools, according to information provided Dec. 5, by Albert.
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