Dear Staff and Families,
Last week, both Senator Susan Collins and Governor Janet Mills announced that US Immigration and Customs Enforcement have “ceased its enhanced operations in the State of Maine.” This information is consistent with observations in our neighborhoods and classrooms as more students have returned to school.
The temporary interventions put into place to support our students who have been impacted by the recent enforcement activity will be tapered and are scheduled to end on Friday, February 6. We will continue to monitor daily attendance, news, and local observations across our community. I am confident that our SPSD leadership team is agile and capable of pivoting should a landscape change necessitate that.
We want to recognize and express our sincere appreciation to community members (including SPSD staff members) who have stepped-up as volunteers and/or as members of community groups to help their neighbors in need.
Adult Education will continue with remote learning for its English Language and Workforce classes at this time. HiSET and Maine College and Career classes and advising services will continue to offer a remote option. All programs will return to in-person learning starting after Friday, February 13.
Continuity of Learning
While many students are returning to school, we recognize that some families are remaining home at this time. In an effort to provide temporary, at-home learning opportunities for students who are not able to attend school, teachers are making work available online through Friday, February 6 for students who are able to complete it. Consistent with our current practice, we will continue to reach out to families when students are absent to ascertain what support might be needed for returning to school.
Resource Supports
We would like to encourage families to see this resource which details support for food, housing, and other needs.
Budget Development, Superintendent Search Input Sessions, & PreK Lottery
There are several upcoming opportunities to participate in the superintendent search and FY27 budget. For this and information about the PreK Lottery, please find those details in this document.
With best wishes,
Dr. George Entwistle, Superintendent