Elementary Boundaries and Reconfiguration (Part 2 of 3)
This week’s message is the second in our three-part series on elementary boundaries and reconfiguration. If you missed Part 1, you can read it on our website at the link below.
Part 1: Why reconfigure and who decides?
Part 2: What other factors or context should we take into consideration?
Part 3: What models are being considered and what’s next?
Key Considerations in School Planning
As we evaluate how to configure elementary schools and where to establish attendance boundaries, we are balancing several core operational and educational factors, such as: walkable distances, grade-level groupings, the number of school transitions, demographic balance across buildings, overall facility capacity, and efficient transportation routes.
Additional Context & External Factors
In addition, there are external factors shaping decision-making:
Early Childhood Special Education Expansion: Under a state law enacted in 2024, Maine school districts are transitioning to provide required early childhood special education services (shifting away from the state’s Child Development Services system). Our district began providing services to 4-year-olds this year and will begin providing services to 3-year-olds starting next school year. While this mandate does not establish universal Pre-K for 3- and 4-year-olds, it does require us to expand services for younger learners. Most of our current elementary schools and outdoor playgrounds were not designed for 3- and 4-year-olds, and our planning must address these facility needs as well.
Still other considerations that have been shared with us from our partners in city government are the varying impacts that different elementary configuration models may have on traffic patterns and congestion.
What’s Next?
Look for Part 3 next week, where we will outline the configuration models currently under review and share the timeline for public input and school board decisions.
Have questions or feedback about these factors?
Join the Conversation - and come early for music or to chat with me!
We invite you to participate in our upcoming Community Forum to review and discuss the options currently under consideration:
Date: Monday, September 28, 2026
Music by Baba Ly / Desert Blues: 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: South Portland Middle School Multipurpose Room (Please park and enter at the District Office Entrance)
Please visit spsdme.org/reconfiguration for more information and upcoming engagement opportunities.
Warm regards,
Angela Atkinson Duina, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
South Portland School Department