RSU 73 reports reading gains, expanded adult ed enrollment and new meal eligibility

District staff and board members used the meeting to report programmatic progress across RSU 73 schools.

Dasey reported primary school enrollment at 320 students (Pre‑K 51, kindergarten 104) and said the school’s reading performance is at the 50th percentile and math at the 55th; kindergarten was around the 60th percentile for reading and math. She credited a phonics program implemented with fidelity for grade‑level growth and said, for the first time, fourth grade will not require the phonics program next year.

Board member Elaine and others praised teachers and recommended public recognition. Chris noted strong district representation at a professional development day at the University of Maine at Farmington and said district staff will present more detailed math growth figures at a future meeting.

Robin reported that adult‑education active enrollment rose from 153 to 176 learners in academic programming over two months and previewed CNA and phlebotomy classes starting in April; she also noted ongoing digital‑literacy and countywide workforce efforts.

Sharon outlined the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) option: because more than 25% of students are on the direct‑certification list the district qualifies and families will not need to submit meal applications, enabling four years of free meals funded primarily through federal sources. Sharon also said a previously budgeted high‑school cafeteria furniture and decor project will proceed using non‑local funds.

Jenna summarized special‑education and 504 plan counts: 48 high‑school students on 504 plans (50 in February), 24 at the middle school, 24 at the elementary school and 12 at the primary school, with a small number of referrals in process.

The board acknowledged the updates and thanked staff; no formal district policy changes were adopted during this portion of the meeting.