Winslow board approves cybersecurity course, K–12 arts and pre-K curriculum; approves contracts and appointments

Winslow School Board members approved a package of curriculum updates and personnel actions at their May meeting, including a new high‑school cybersecurity semester course, adoption of grades 6–8 art and grades 5–12 band curricula, a formal pre‑K curriculum, and routine staffing contracts and appointments.

The cybersecurity course, proposed to be taught by Julie Houston, will be offered as a semester course and—because of low AP Computer Science enrollment—will replace that AP offering for at least one year to free roster space. The curriculum committee had voted unanimously to recommend the new course, and trustees approved the proposal on a motion and second with a unanimous vote.

Board members also adopted an updated 6–8 art curriculum that emphasizes elements of art, the principles of design and a coordinated digital portfolio so students can document growth over the three middle‑school years. The district displayed student work previously at Waterville Creates as an example of a digital portfolio. The board approved the art adoption unanimously.

The board approved a 5–12 band scope and sequence that includes an ongoing ensemble/performance unit across grade levels. Trustees also adopted a written pre‑K curriculum after a presentation from Christine Harrington; the pre‑K program will run morning and afternoon sessions and uses state early‑learning standards to align with kindergarten expectations.

High‑school Career Prep was updated to include modern finance topics, including digital currencies, and remains a required option for sophomores (or can be satisfied by the JMG alternative). The board approved the career‑prep updates unanimously.

On personnel and administration, the board authorized the superintendent to issue employment contracts between June 23 and Sept. 15, 2026, to avoid losing candidates during summer hiring pauses. Trustees also approved a bundled set of probationary and continuing teacher contracts, new appointments and accepted resignations; those personnel motions were taken in lots and approved by vote.

Votes at a glance

- Cybersecurity course (semester): approved (unanimous) - Grades 6–8 art curriculum: approved (unanimous) - Grades 5–12 band curriculum: approved (unanimous) - Pre‑K curriculum adoption: approved (unanimous) - Career prep curriculum update: approved (unanimous) - Superintendent authorized to issue contracts (June 23–Sept 15): approved (unanimous) - Continuing/probationary contracts and new appointments (lots): approved (unanimous) - Records‑retention and expense policies (EHB, DKC/DKCR): adopted; second readings waived (see separate listing)

Why it matters

The curriculum changes reflect a district effort to update course offerings to match evolving technology and career pathways, including cybersecurity and modern finance. The pre‑K adoption and formalized portfolio work aim to strengthen early learning alignment with kindergarten expectations and to create a more visible record of student progress in the arts. The administrative approvals ensure staffing and compliance actions continue over the summer without delay.

What’s next

Administrators said they will post the pre‑K curriculum and screening details to the district website for parents and will integrate the new cybersecurity course into high‑school scheduling for fall enrollment. Personnel lists and contract details will appear on future agendas as required.