School district prioritizes safety upgrades and building repairs at high school and middle school

The MSAD 51 School Board has prioritized critical safety upgrades for its facilities following a recent meeting on April 22, 2024. Among the key decisions made, the board emphasized the urgent need to enhance security measures at the high school, where current infrastructure does not allow for effective lockdowns during after-hours events. This issue was highlighted in a past audit by Homeland Security, which pointed out vulnerabilities in the building's design.

The board discussed several specific improvements, including the installation of secure doors to restrict access to certain areas of the high school. This measure aims to prevent unauthorized individuals from wandering through the building, thereby enhancing student safety. Additionally, the safety committee has recommended improvements to the pool area to ensure secure entry and exit points.

Other facility concerns were also addressed, such as the deteriorating floors at Mabel I. Wilson School, which require immediate repair. The board noted that entry doors at the middle school leading to the playground have been corroding for years and need replacement. Furthermore, the movable stage door at the middle school, which serves dual purposes for music and physical education classes, is no longer operable and must be fixed.

The meeting also included discussions about the removal of the School Resource Officer (SRO) office from its current location in the high school lobby. The board plans to relocate the office to a more suitable area, which will help open up the lobby space.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to addressing safety concerns and improving the overall functionality of school facilities. As these projects move forward, the community can expect enhanced safety measures and a more secure learning environment for students.