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Board hears that pre-K enrollment at Eliot Elementary is about half capacity; district plans staffing shifts and MaineCare billing for special education
Summary
Superintendent reported pre-K enrollment at Eliot Elementary is roughly 36–38 students (capacity ~64). The district plans to run three sections and shift a teacher into a state-funded role; leadership also said it is pursuing billing special-education services through MaineCare to generate revenue.
District leaders told the board pre-K enrollment at Eliot Elementary has fallen to roughly half capacity and described operational adjustments intended to stabilize programming.
The superintendent said pre-K numbers are "in the 37 range," far below the 64 spots available (four sections of up to 16 students each). The district expects a handful of late enrollees but does not anticipate returning to full capacity; administrators plan to operate three sections (two morning, one afternoon) for about 48 spots unless enrollment unexpectedly increases.
To maintain service and contain costs, the superintendent said one teacher will stop teaching an afternoon section and instead work with state-funded early childhood services (CDS), a change that will be funded by the state for that position. The district is also pursuing billing special education services through MaineCare as a revenue source to help offset costs.
Board members were told the steps aim to be cost-conscious while preserving services for students with special needs.
No policy changes were adopted at the meeting; the board heard the superintendent’s operational plan for the fall and asked staff to continue monitoring enrollment.
