MSAD 51 updates PATHS and IB programs; board approves French exchange

At the meeting the district presented three connected program updates and won board approval for an international exchange.

Principal Carl Francis summarized Greeley High School students’ participation at Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS), noting typical enrollment is concentrated in grades 11–12 and that approximately 6 to 8 percent of students take PATHS programs in a given year. He identified common barriers — limited slots, scheduling conflicts (morning sessions, transportation), fit and attendance expectations — and outlined strategies to increase access, including earlier outreach in ninth grade, recorded Google Classroom previews, advisor four‑year planning and collaboration with silo coordinator Katie Schindler to broker community partner placements.

IB coordinator Kim McDonald reviewed the IB offering at Greeley High School (15 years as an IB World School), program structure (SL/HL, TOK, CAS, extended essay), and recent statistics: roughly 91 students accessed IB courses and the average diploma‑candidate score was discussed in the presentation. McDonald said the school is in a five‑year program evaluation cycle with a self‑study and a program development plan due June 1 and noted barriers such as staffing (notably IB physics) and communicating realistic college credit expectations and exam costs. Board members and students discussed AP/IB co‑seating practices and supports for exam fees; McDonald said the district provides financial help when needed.

Kim McDonald also presented a one‑to‑one French exchange model (5–6 weeks abroad each way) and asked for board approval to run the program annually; the board moved, seconded and approved the exchange unanimously.

Representative quote: "The IB program has become part of our proud identity here at Greeley High School," Kim McDonald said, and highlighted that "students find success in this international education program."