DISTRICT UPDATE

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Staff,

The past week has been full of great news! From state championships to thoughtful giving to vast funding opportunities, our districts are very fortunate. Congratulations to the student-athletes in volleyball and basketball, as well as those in Marching Band (see full stories below).

CENTER OF TECHNOLOGY GROWTH

I received notice that our State of Maine Department of Education application to expand the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (COT) was tied for the highest ranking score receiving conditional approval for the full amount of $7 million. Although we remain in the 15-day appeal window, we are confident this project will move forward which is a huge win for the students in Biddeford, Dayton, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunk, and other outlying communities who attend COT.

The COT expansion, to occur in two phases, will allow students increased choice in career pathways.

• Create a Culinary Arts and Hospitality Program. According to the Coastal County Workforce Board, Hospitality/Food Service/Tourism is one of the five industry sectors in need of workers to be trained in customer service, money handling, food handling certifications and requirements, dependability, and performance of multiple functions in a kitchen. The program space would include a culinary classroom/lab, dining space, dry storage, linen closet, and a mock hotel room.

• Create an Athletic Training Program. This new program would be in close proximity to the gym and the athletic training space at BHS allowing the use of current equipment to reduce the overall cost. The classroom would be equipped with appropriate interactive technology.

• Expand EMT Program. According to the Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, EMT and Paramedic job growth is projected nationwide to increase by 11% through 2030. On average, there are 125 openings per year in Maine for EMT professionals. Our EMS Basic is considered an entry-level position in the workforce, and students can use their EMT­ Basic Certification to advance through professional levels and responsibilities in the field. The expanded space would allow the program to gain lab space providing a positive clinical experience.

• Expand Plumbing & Heating Program. The COT’s current plumbing program has been running a waitlist for the past two years. Projections for this field continue to be strong for the future, and students can apply their hours toward their Maine Journeymen's license.

• Middle School Programming. COT has been one of the middle school program pilots allowing students to explore their interests and learn about the many career opportunities available. This expansion would allow for possible middle school programming in the future.

All the programs that will be housed in the new addition offer certifications such as ServSafe, OSHA 10, NCCER Plumbing Certifications, EMT Basic Licensure, CPR & First Aid, Athletic Training, dual enrollment opportunities, and post-graduate Apprenticeship opportunities.

ELECTRIC BUSSES

Thanks to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Bus Program, Dayton is among one of the 13 school districts in Maine to be granted funding to replace their fleet of diesel-powered buses with electric, low-emission buses. With a value of over $1.5 million, including charging stations, Dayton will replace four buses over the next year. The EPA references the benefits of cleaner air, reduced health risks, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and grid resilience. For the full story on News Center Maine, click here.

GIVING THANKS

I was thrilled to learn that several local businesses are continuing their sponsorship of Thanksgiving meals for our students in need. Our resiliency coordinators, social workers, and counselors are connecting with families in need, and on Saturday, November 19th, they will pick up or receive delivery of a full Thanksgiving meal. On behalf of all our families, my deepest gratitude to the local businesses that contribute to caring for our community!

INCLEMENT WEATHER COMMUNICATION

Although it does not feel like it this week, we want parents to be informed of how we will notify families when there is inclement weather that delays or closes school. Please review the storm letter linked here and below.

May your family enjoy a nice Thanksgiving holiday later this month.

Jeremy Ray

Superintendent of Schools