
DISTRICT UPDATE
March 5, 2025
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Staff,
As we step into March, a month filled with academic engagement, students have an exciting stretch of learning ahead. With hands-on Science projects, in-depth book reports, and daily interactions with their teachers, the next six weeks provide a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of key concepts. Parent-Teacher Conferences on April 9th (Saco: April 4th) offer an excellent chance to discuss your child’s progress and goals. Additionally, spring brings a host of school events, from dynamic drama and musical performances to thrilling athletic competitions, all showcasing the incredible talents of our students. Your support and involvement make a difference—we look forward to celebrating their achievements with you!
SCHOOL BUDGET
Planning for the 2025-2026 school year budget is well underway, and we are navigating challenges as we strive to maintain quality programming amid shifts in state and federal education funding. As home valuations rise, state subsidies decrease, impacting resources available for student programs. Balancing financial realities with our commitment to enriching student experiences requires thoughtful decision-making. As we plan next year’s school budget, a projection of our enrollment will allow us to plan more effectively. Parents can help through early registration of any child who will be entering Pre-K, Kindergarten, or moving into our community this Fall (see below). We also encourage community members to stay informed by attending upcoming School Committee/Board meetings and participating in the budget process before the June vote.
STRENGTHENING SAFETY & COMMUNITY IN OUR SCHOOLS
I am pleased to share that a School Resource Officer (SRO) will once again be serving our students and staff at Biddeford Middle School (BMS), Biddeford Intermediate School (BIS), and Biddeford Primary School (BPS). Liz Coleman, who previously served as the SRO at BMS several years ago, is returning to this vital role, bringing with her a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a strong connection to our school community.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Biddeford Police Department for their partnership and commitment to our schools. Having an SRO in our schools provides more than just an added layer of safety—it fosters positive relationships between students and law enforcement, supports conflict resolution, and reinforces a culture of respect and responsibility. Officer Coleman will be an important resource for students, families, and staff, working proactively to create a safe and supportive environment for all.
COURSE OFFERINGS
As parents and students (grades 5-11) map out their academic courses, unified arts, and school athletic and organized club selections for next year, we encourage families to spend some time learning about the numerous opportunities available within our schools. Please contact your child’s Guidance Counselor and/or review the options available at your school.
Biddeford Middle School - Link to website
Biddeford High School - Link to Course of Studies
Biddeford Regional Center of Technology - Link to Course Catalog (video below)
My Best,
Jeremy Ray
Superintendent of Schools
UPCOMING DATES TO KNOW
Wednesday, March 5: District-wide Art Show (4:30-7pm @ Biddeford Middle School)
Saturday, March 8: 6th Grade Honors Music Festival (3pm @ York High School)
Sunday, March 9: Daylight Savings Time - Spring Ahead One Hour
Tuesday, March 11: Dayton School Committee (6:30pm @ DCS)
Tuesday, March 11: BHS Winter Sports Banquet (6pm @ Steve White Gym)
Wednesday, March 12: Early Release Day, Biddeford School Committee (5pm @ BHS Little Theater), and BIS Family Night (5-6:30pm)
Thursday, March 13: Youth Full Maine Food Distribution (2-3pm @ Dayton Town Hall)
Friday, March 14: Dayton’s Glow Dance (6-7:30pm @ DCS)
Sunday, March 16: Marching Arts Home Show (1pm @ BHS Tiger Gym)
Wednesday, March 19: Youth Full Maine Food Distribution (10am-12pm @ Rotary Park)
Thursday, March 20-21: BHS Drama in Mamma Mia! (see below for more information)
Thursday, March 20: COT National Technical Honor Society (6pm @ Little Theater)
Tuesday, March 25: Parenting & The Brain (6pm via Zoom)
Wednesday, March 26: Biddeford School Committee (7pm @ BHS Little Theater)
Thursday, March 27: Youth Full Maine Food Distribution (2-3pm @ Dayton Town Hall)
Marching Arts Home Show
March 16 at 1:00 PM
BHS Tiger Gym
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Mamma Mia!: Mar 20-22
March 20 & 21 at 7:00pm
March 22 at 2:00pm & 7:00pm
BMS Performing Arts Center
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Dayton School's Glow Dance
March 14 from 6:00-7:30pm
Dayton Consolidated School
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Comedy Show
March 21 at 7:30pm (Doors open at 6:45pm)
Biddeford High School Little Theater
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PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION
If you have a child turning the age of four (4) for Pre-K or five (5) for Kindergarten before October 15, 2054, please pre-register them as soon as possible via this link [Biddeford or Dayton] to ensure screening is completed prior to Fall. Tours will be made available in the coming months, and additional paperwork may be required. Please note returning student registration will be open in early August.
CENTER OF TECHNOLOGY - ENROLL NOW!
The Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (COT) is now accepting applications for Fall 2025 so apply today! Classes in trades, engineering, CNA, EMT, athletic training, business, computer science, culinary, and hospitality management are available, with many offering dual enrollment for college credit. Visit us online at the COT website or schedule a tour through your high school guidance counselor to learn more. The BRCOT services students from BHS, TA, OOBHS, KHS, and MHS, and spaces fill up fast. Step-by-step directions on how to apply are linked here.
TALENTED STUDENTS PERFORM AT MUSIC FESTIVALS
Congratulations to the talented student musicians of Biddeford Middle School (BMS) and Biddeford High School (BHS) who dedicated themselves to rigorous preparation and performed at the prestigious District 1 Honors Music Festival and the York County Junior High Music Festival. Both festivals included exceptional musicians who participated in band or chorus.
Band Director Mike Murphy had the following students performing in the honors band:
BHS Instrumental Music: Six BHS Instrumental students performed three pieces in the Nomination Band under the direction of Lyndsay Boysen. Congratulations to Cody Robinson (Percussion), Jude Leaver (Trombone), Elliot Nash (Baritone Sax), Isaac Beaulieu (Alto Sax), Caiden Charland (Alto Sax), and Ariel Cote (Flute).
Choral Director Ellie Joseph had the following students performing in the honors chorus:
BHS Vocal Music: BHS vocal music students Brittany Hamilton and Colin McKague auditioned and earned placements in the District Honors Choirs. Colin performed with the Mixed Choir under the direction of Virgil Bozemen, receiving commendations for his vocal tone and professionalism. Brittany represented us in the Treble Choir under Emily Isaacson’s direction and was selected to perform in a solo or small group based on her high score!
Band Directors David Stebbins, Mike Murphy, and Grace Murphy had the following students performing in the festival band:
BHS 8th graders: Emily Donovan (flute), Carson Katon (clarinet), Michelle Le (clarinet), Ciara Perry (clarinet), Lily Santiago (clarinet), and Bailey Betters (percussion).
BMS 7th graders: Ava Sayer (flute), Allan Martin (percussion), and Jackson Hicks (percussion).
Choral Director Ann Guiney had the following students performing in the festival chorus:
BMS 7th graders: Charlotte Aberle (soprano), Milania Jackson (soprano), Milan Vire (soprano), Jade Weeks (soprano) Zariah Zompa (soprano), Mikayla Wilson (soprano), Bella Cain (alto), Layla McDonough (alto), Payton Russo (alto), Osmany Cru Carrasquillo (baritone), Beckett Jacques (baritone), Maddox Jolly (baritone), Jack Jones (baritone), Elijah McLean (baritone), and Eric Ramirez Jr., (baritone).
Students have committed to hours of practice and rehearsals. Please join me in congratulating these students for their outstanding achievements. Their success is a testament to the incredible support of our music educators, families, and community. Biddeford Music continues to grow, and we couldn't be more proud of the time and energy these students have dedicated! Bravo to all!
TEACHERS GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE AT BRCOT
This month, Biddeford High School (BHS) teachers stepped into the world of career and technical education during a hands-on professional development session at the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT). They had the opportunity to experience three different programs, gaining insight into the skills and career pathways available to our students. Teachers had the opportunity to try activities like gearing up for welding and learning to take blood pressure readings—just a small sample of the hands-on training BRCOT offers.
“It’s essential that our teachers understand the hands-on learning and career-focused education we offer here at BRCOT,” said Paulette Bonneau, Director of the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. “By experiencing these programs firsthand, they can better support students in discovering career paths that align with their interests and strengths. The trades are a vital part of our workforce, and events like this help bridge the gap between traditional academics and technical education.”
This collaboration between BHS and BRCOT highlights the importance of career and technical education in preparing students for success beyond high school, whether they choose to enter the workforce directly, pursue further training, or continue their education.
IN THE NEWS
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Free Food & Clothing Resources
Free Food Distribution
Open to All
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Free Clothing Closet
Open to All
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Free School Nutrition
FYOOD Cooking Competition to Support COT
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
5:00-7:30 PM
Biddeford Regional Center of Technology
Get ready for a culinary showdown! FYOOD (pronounced "feud") is an exciting, fast-paced cooking competition where amateur home chefs go head-to-head in a battle of creativity, skill, and flavor. Taking place during Biddeford & Saco Restaurant Week, this event will highlight the passion for food in our community while supporting the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology’s (BRCOT) Culinary Program.
Competitors will face two mystery ingredient challenges: a Savory Round and a Sweets Round. Their final dishes will be judged by a panel of professional chefs, local celebrities, and BRCOT Culinary Program Director Chef Steve. Only two teams will emerge victorious, winning a trophy and serious bragging rights!
Audience Tickets—Watch the Action Live!
For just $15, you can be part of the FYOOD experience!
Enjoy a live cooking competition with front-row views from the BRCOT dining room.
Watch the chefs in action through kitchen windows and a live video feed.
See students in the culinary program showcase their skills through special demos.
Ticket includes a meal from the made-to-order pasta station and other refreshments.
Cheer for your favorite team and witness the judges’ final tasting and award presentation!