Bangor board approves 2026–27 course handbook with new ACP pathways and three course updates

The Bangor School Board voted to approve the 2026–27 middle- and high-school course description book after administration outlined several design and content updates. Miss Schultz and Mr. Birkhart were credited for revising the handbook, which now opens with an ACP (academic and career planning) pathways section intended to help students and families align classes with career interests.

Administrators said the book adds visuals to help students quickly identify course levels and availability, and includes descriptions of youth apprenticeship opportunities, transcripted-credit options and work-release procedures. The board discussed that the two new English electives — Mystery and Gothic Literature and Contemporary Literature 2 — are electives rather than required courses, and confirmed that the tech/agriculture offering has been reformatted to emphasize a farm-to-table focus.

"We've put a lot of hours into making sure everything is updated," the administrator said, noting the master schedule will be created in JMC and Miss Schultz will make materials available online for students and families. Board members asked whether the youth apprenticeship program currently has participants; administration answered that some students are participating and that earlier local internships have included placements at a bank.

The board approved the handbook on a motion by Shelley, seconded by Jessica; one board member recorded opposition. The administration said it will publish the updated course descriptions and support scheduling through JMC in the coming weeks.