FARMINGTON — The Regional School Unit 9 board of directors held their regular meeting Sept. 10, welcoming two new student representatives. The board of directors provided updates on staff hiring and upcoming events.

Board Chair Dorothy “Dee” Robinson opened the meeting by introducing the new student board representatives, Rowan Shanti and Julian Reynolds. Although Julian Reynolds was unable to attend due to a soccer commitment, Robinson shared information about Shanti, a junior at the Mt. Blue Campus. “Rowan has been actively involved in the theater since her freshman year and serves as class vice president,” Robinson said. “She’s also involved in several music-oriented clubs and believes students’ voices are very important. Let’s all welcome Rowan.”

During the communications portion of the meeting, Superintendent Christian Elkington highlighted resolutions from the Maine School Board Association [MSBA] and upcoming legislative sessions addressing violence in schools. Board member Richard Ruhlin recommended that everyone review the new MSBA handbook, especially the agenda items related to gun violence. He also mentioned the upcoming MSBA conference in Augusta. The Maine School Management Association [MSMA] is hosting its annual fall conference for MSBA members and invited guests at the Augusta Civic Center Oct. 24–25.

Principal Joel Smith of Mt. Blue High School provided positive updates from the school, including a well-attended open house with approximately 600 attendees from the local community. He also highlighted the upcoming homecoming weekend Oct. 4 and 5, encouraging everyone to attend and support the students.

Elkington took a moment to commend the staff at Mt. Blue Middle School for their cooperation amid ongoing work to repair a gym leak. “Work has begun in the gym,” he said. “I really have to thank the Mt. Blue Middle School staff for their efforts in moving the ship forward. I do want to commend them for that work and those efforts.”

In his report, Elkington noted that staffing levels were better than they had been in recent years, with several experienced individuals joining the district.

Principal Keith Acedo of Academy Hill School and G.D. Cushing School reported a positive start to the school year, noting, “Teachers, students seem to have a lot of enthusiasm and excitement, which is really good to see.” He highlighted successful meet-and-greet events, saying, “We had over 200 people show up at Academy Hill School and the meet-and-greet at G.D. Cushing School went very well also.”

He also announced the start of the 21st century after-school program, overseen by librarian Rhonda Schanck. The 21st Century Kids of F.R.A.N.K.L.I.N. offers an after-school program for K-5 students, including those homeschooled, held at W.G. Mallett and Academy Hill Schools. The program runs Monday through Thursday, 3:15-5:15 p.m., from September 16 to June.

The next board of directors meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24.

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