School Board Considers Postponing Technology Upgrades Amid Budget Concerns

The RSU 22 Budget Meeting held on May 1, 2025, focused on several key issues regarding the district's financial planning and service provisions for students. The meeting began with discussions about the lack of services in Winterport since November, leading to concerns about budget allocations for the upcoming year.

One significant topic was the proposal to purchase new projectors and systems for the schools, which was estimated to cost $62,000. A board member suggested tabling this expenditure for the next year, citing the potential backlash from taxpayers and prioritizing funding for a summer program instead. The board agreed to consider this approach, noting that there might be surplus funds available from the current year's budget that could be used for the projectors later.

The meeting also addressed the hiring of social workers, specifically Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs). There was a discussion about the current staffing situation, with concerns raised about the Acadia contract, which had not been able to provide adequate services due to staffing shortages. The board noted that while the Acadia contract was still in place, it was not meeting the district's needs, particularly in Winterport.

A key point of discussion was whether the social workers could generate revenue through billing for services provided to students with insurance. It was highlighted that the current social workers do not engage in billing, which could potentially offset costs. The board expressed interest in exploring this option further, recognizing that hiring additional staff to handle billing could enhance revenue and service delivery.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need to expedite the hiring process for social workers once the budget is approved, aiming to address the growing demand for mental health services among students. The board emphasized the importance of providing adequate support to students, particularly in light of the challenges faced during the current school year. Overall, the discussions reflected a commitment to balancing budgetary constraints with the need for essential services in the district.