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Principal reports rising kindergarten interest, new hire candidate and sign replacement plans
Summary
The principal reported total enrollment of 113 students, increased kindergarten inquiries for 2025–26, a recommended teaching candidate (Mikayla Hand) to advance to superintendent approval, and plans to replace the deteriorating school sign with estimates to return to the board.
Principal French told the board the school had a current total enrollment of 113 students distributed across kindergarten through fifth grade: 16 kindergarten, 18 first grade, 24 second, 21 third, 12 fourth, and 22 fifth. For the 2025–26 school year the principal said 23 families had registered or inquired about kindergarten, up from 12 at the same time last year.
French described recent school activities, including a three-day performance of “Finding Nemo Kids,” and thanked staff who led auditions, rehearsals and performances. The principal also reviewed changes to the 2025–26 calendar that differ from the SAU calendar, including early-release days to accommodate evening conferences and contract requirements; specific early-release dates cited included Nov. 7, Dec. 23 and April 10, and an adjusted last-day schedule to meet contractual time requirements.
On staffing, French reported the district convened a hiring committee that interviewed multiple candidates and recommended Mikayla Hand, currently a yearlong long-term substitute in Exeter, to proceed to the superintendent’s office for final approval. French said the committee involved students in the interview process and that students unanimously preferred the recommended candidate. The candidate’s U.S.-based and international teaching experience was discussed; French said the candidate has just over one year of U.S.-counted experience but brings varied classroom experience.
The principal also reported that the existing exterior school sign is in poor condition and that repair does not make sense; staff have obtained site visits and will bring quotes to a future board meeting for discussion and a potential purchase. French described the proposed replacement as a low-maintenance sign similar in appearance to the current sign but not an electronic reader board.
