Bonny Eagle School Board reviews staffing and budget for proposed 2025-2026 school year

The MSAD6 Board of Directors meeting on April 28, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding school safety and the proposed budget for the 2025-2026 academic year. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the role of school resource officers (SROs) in ensuring the safety of students and staff.

Board member Delaney emphasized the importance of having adequate SROs in schools, citing concerns from parents and staff about safety. He compared MSAD6's single SRO to other districts like Gorham, which employs four. Delaney argued that SROs possess unique capabilities that social workers do not, particularly in handling emergencies and maintaining order during incidents. He expressed gratitude for the administration's efforts to present data on the effectiveness of SROs, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions about their role in the district.

The meeting also included a review of the proposed general fund budget of $65,803,010, with a local share of $36,791,763. The superintendent presented a detailed analysis of staffing and enrollment trends over the past decade. Notably, while student enrollment has decreased, staffing levels have increased, prompting questions about resource allocation. The superintendent explained that the rise in staff numbers is partly due to the establishment of specialized programs, such as the learning center at Frank Jewett, which aims to keep students in school and reduce costly out-of-district placements.

The board acknowledged the need to evaluate staffing levels in light of declining enrollment, with plans to reduce positions in the upcoming budget. The superintendent assured the board that they are committed to responsible staffing practices, assessing needs before filling vacancies.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to student safety and effective resource management as it navigates challenges related to enrollment and staffing. The board plans to continue discussions on these topics in future meetings, ensuring that community concerns are addressed while maintaining a focus on educational quality and safety.