District Promises Continued Summer and After School Programs Amid Budget Challenges

The Lewiston Public Schools School Committee meeting on April 7, 2025, focused on the district's summer and after-school programs, emphasizing the importance of funding and student participation. The committee discussed the necessity of maintaining these programs, which have been robust in recent years due to available funding from the ISER grant. However, concerns were raised about potential funding shortfalls that could jeopardize these initiatives.

A key point of discussion was the requirement to provide summer programming as part of the grant obligations. Committee members highlighted the challenges of meeting these requirements without adequate local funding, particularly in light of rising transportation costs and wage increases. The conversation underscored the interconnectedness of various funding sources, with members warning that failing to secure necessary funds could lead to the denial of critical grants and the cancellation of summer programs.

The committee also addressed the structure of the after-school enrichment programs, clarifying that while these programs provide valuable support, they do not offer academic credit. Instead, they focus on helping students, particularly those identified as low-performing, to meet educational standards through tutoring and homework assistance. Students must apply to participate, and their eligibility is determined based on referrals from teachers and counselors.

Additionally, the committee discussed the assessment process for elementary students, noting that while students are evaluated, they do not earn credits at this level. The focus remains on helping students progress through the assessment criteria rather than reclaiming credits, which is only applicable at the high school level.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the critical need for sustained funding to support essential educational programs in Lewiston Public Schools. The committee's proactive approach aims to ensure that summer and after-school programs continue to serve the needs of students, particularly those requiring additional academic support.