RUMFORD – The SAD 43 board will review a proposed 2004-2005 budget timeline when it meets Monday. Directors will also hear a report from students who attended a science camp earlier in the school year and hold three closed sessions.

The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. in the library of Mountain Valley High School.

For the second year, residents will vote on a proposed school budget through a combination of districtwide meetings and referendum, a procedure adopted by district residents a year ago.

Superintendent Jim Hodgkin said a preliminary figure should be developed by February. He will take the proposed budget to the four member towns’ boards of selectmen to field questions and hear comments.

He said he expects the 2004-2005 budget to rise, although he isn’t sure by how much. Providing remediation for students under the new standards-based reporting system may require hiring additional staff.

That issue, and others, will be worked out as the budget is developed. The adopted 2003-2004 budget was $13.69 million.

Elementary teacher Libby Cronkhite and about 20 students will report on their experiences at Camp Kieve, a science-oriented camp in Nobleboro that shows science career possibilities for girls.

Other agenda items include the appointment of seventh-grade math teacher Penny Kittredge to the newly created position of math specialist, several other positions, one resignation, and an update on student enrollment.

Reports will be given by newly hired director of nutrition services, Jeanne LaPointe; Director of Special Services Paige Coville; and Director of Buildings, Grounds and Transportation Tim Gallant.

Closed sessions are planned to discuss negotiations with nutrition services and educational technicians, and to discuss the procedure for evaluating the superintendent.

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