Published August 27, 2025 by Dana Richie, Portland Press Herald.
Assistant Superintendent Johanna Price answers your back to school questions.
As the endless days of summer come to an end, South Portland gets ready to go back to school.
Students in first through twelfth grades have their first day on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Kindergarteners start the next day.
Assistant Superintendent Johanna Price answers the questions you may have about returning to school.
Any changes in academic calendar, school start times or bus routes students need to know about?
Our calendar is online, and includes start and end times for schools. Families can find this here. Bus route information is available to families through MyRide K-12, information on how to access are here.
Any changes in regard to student cell phone use or technology?
Our policy on technology use remains the same. The practices at the Middle School and High School are described below and shared with families via student/family handbooks
High School: We believe personal electronics, including cell phones, smart watches and headphones, are necessary tools for many people in our community and that we all need support and boundaries to use them appropriately. As a school we are actively exploring the impact personal electronics have on our learning community and will continue to evaluate our practice to best meet the needs of our students. As a reminder, students can be reached during the day through the main office at 207-767-3266. Therefore, at SPHS personal electronics may be used between classes and during lunch, and all students are expected to silence and place their cell phone in the Classroom Phone Holder during class.
Middle School: Students are not allowed to use their cell phones during the school day. Cell phones must be turned off and in students’ lockers for the duration of the school day. If a student removes their cell phone from their locker, they will be required to bring their phone to the main office where it will be kept in a locked closet for the duration of the school day.
Are there any changes in school leadership from last year? (principal or higher)
Yes, we are excited to welcome Dr. George Entwistle — Interim Superintendent, Abigail Ketchen — Director of Finance, Ellyn Feerick — Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, Lori Pacholski — Small School Principal, Heather Conyers — High School Assistant Principal
Any other significant changes or developments in the district from last year?
We are excited for the year ahead, and welcoming back the amazing staff, students and families who make SPSD such a wonderful place!