Freeport School Board Approves Five New Teacher Positions for 2025-26 School Year

The RSU 5 Board Meeting held on July 21, 2025, focused on several key personnel decisions and budgetary authorizations for the upcoming school year. The meeting began with a brief acknowledgment of unfinished business, which was set aside for future discussions.

The first significant agenda item was the authorization for the finance committee to transfer up to 5% of the total appropriation for any cost center in the FY 26 operating budget. This measure allows for flexibility in budget management without increasing the overall budget, a practice that is customary for the board. The motion was approved unanimously.

Next, the board moved to personnel matters, beginning with the approval of Deborah Antle as a seventh-grade science teacher at Freeport Middle School for the 2025-26 school year. Antle, who holds a bachelor's degree in math education and a master's in urban education, has extensive teaching experience across various grades and locations. Her appointment was met with enthusiasm from the board.

Following this, Chelsea Nugent was approved for a one-year position as a 0.5 RTI reading teacher at the elementary school. Nugent, already familiar to the district as a pre-K teacher, holds relevant qualifications and has previously excelled in similar roles.

The board then approved Megan Taylor as a second-grade teacher at Moore Street School. Taylor, who has a background in elementary education and has worked in various teaching capacities, was noted for her commitment to fostering an inclusive classroom environment.

Tatum Hayward was also appointed as a first-grade teacher at Durham Community School. Hayward, currently serving as a long-term substitute, has demonstrated strong teaching abilities and a positive rapport with students.

Lastly, Kylie Dannon was approved as a fourth-grade teacher at Durham Community School. Dannon brings a wealth of experience from her previous teaching roles in New York and expressed excitement about transitioning to Maine.

The meeting concluded with no public comments, and all personnel motions were passed without opposition, reflecting a strong consensus among board members regarding the new hires. The board's focus on hiring qualified candidates underscores its commitment to maintaining high educational standards within the district.