School Option #5
Dear Editor:
Several folks have emailed and asked about Option #5. This is in reference to an editorial commentary I made last week, in which I identified several School Options; I am suggesting our school committees -- Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor and Wiscasset get together and engage in discussion around these options, particularly Option #5, which could potentially lead to a solution … maybe the broader picture could include Edgecomb, Southport, Westport, Alna, Dresden?
Option #5 is an - “Integrated, Consolidated 9-16 Educational Facilities Program Funding Opportunity. Maine public schools are invited to submit applications for the new 2024-2025 rating cycle Maine school administrative units (SAUs) may apply for the Integrated, Consolidated 9-16 Educational Facilities Program through the application posted on the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of School Facilities website. The application deadline is June 30, 2025.” A component of this grant suggests two or more SAU’s get together.
Further details can be found by going to the following link-
Perhaps included in our application; that we are seeking local benefactors.
Imagine if you will, a regional facility grades 9-16, as described and funded by the state? Then, as I said, I like to engage my students in brainstorming -- perhaps there are benefactors in the region who would like to see a theater, athletic field, art room, technology lab, science lab, gymnasium, library/research room with their names supporting building such a facility. I wonder what the state would consider … if they knew a portion would be subsidized in part by benefactors who have a vested interest in our kids and in our region. After all, Hodgdon and Samples saw to it that the industrial arts facility at BRHS was outfitted back in 1956 and commemorative plaques remain for folks to see. Could be exciting!
I’ve heard, and I’m sure you’ve heard, our school committee has said, that the state wouldn’t consider us for a host of reasons. Well, to quote a good friend of mine -- ”unless you take the shot, you won’t know if you’ll make the basket” or “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”
I’m suggesting our school committees, our communities …”take the shot.”
Maybe as voters and taxpayers we should be presented with more options. Put on your thinking caps!
Rob Cronk
Southport
