Futures Task Force

June 20, 2023

New Items:

• Task Force Members summarized research regarding Grade Configuration 
• Task Force Members shared a draft Public Relations/Communication plan to regularly inform taxpayers with transparency, honesty, and a call to action
• Data and information was shared regarding projected class sizes, per pupil spending and demographics, documents from EMC, transportation routes and Driveline usage, multi-year Capital Improvement Plan, RSU 16 budget 2016-present, operations of plant cost for MCS
• Sub-Groups and Task Groups were formed for: Geothermal, Elementary Educational Opportunities RSU 16 does not offer, Functional Capacity Group to calculate the capacity of ESS, design a survey for community members, and plan the Staff/Community Collaborative

Reminders:

• RSU 16 Issues shared at Staff Brainstorm, Community Forum and Budget Meeting

Teacher shortage - difficulty filling open positions with fully certified teachers, Class sizes are inequitable across the three elementary schools, Transportation/Driver shortage - canceled bus routes, Increase in salaries due to contract negotiations, Aging buildings (including our “newest” 23-year old HS/MS), Title I services and Title I comparability, Rising cost of everything, Needs of our students

Next meeting is July 12.  It is the Staff and Community Collaborative!

The RSU 16 Futures Task Force is dedicated to developing and presenting recommendations to the School Board at their September 2023 Board meeting. These recommendations aim to achieve cost savings and address RSU 16 issues while ensuring that the quality of education for students is maintained. The Task Force recognizes the significant challenges it is grappling with and is actively working to make well-informed decisions that will ultimately benefit the RSU 16 educational community.  The Futures Task Force is inviting RSU 16 community members and staff to share ideas and collaborate on July 12, 2023 from 6:00-7:30PM at Whittier Middle School. Together, let’s brainstorm, inspire, and take action.

Futures Task Force Data - Packet 1
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