RSU 21 School Board chair clarifies public’s role in new Educational Collaboration Ad Hoc Committee

KENNEBUNK, Maine - After receiving questions about the public’s role and access to the new Educational Collaboration Ad Hoc Committee, RSU 21 School Board Chair Lesley Stoeffler clarified Tuesday that members of the public will be able to attend committee meetings.

"We welcome community members to attend our committee meeting as observers,” said Stoeffler. “To ensure a smooth and productive session, active participation will focus on our committee members. While we value the presence of all attendees, the moderator and committee members will guide the discussion and decision-making process. This approach allows us to maintain an open and transparent environment while also addressing the specific tasks at hand. We appreciate your understanding and support in helping us create a balanced and effective meeting atmosphere."

Participation in this first organizational meeting will be in-person only; no online attendance will be allowed. The meeting will be recorded in accordance with school board policy.

Background information:

 The RSU 21 School Board of Directors announced the formation of the Educational Collaboration Ad Hoc Committee earlier this month.

The committee’s first meeting will be held on Thursday, Sept. 26 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room (A102) at Kennebunk Elementary School. It is made up of representatives from all six district schools and a wide array of professions within the district, including teachers, education technicians, transportation, central office staff, and school board members.

The committee will meet four times over the school year. The three remaining meetings will be scheduled during the first meeting. At the conclusion of the meeting schedule, the committee will present a final report to the school board.

The committee will be moderated by Craig Freshley of Good Group Decisions. Freshley, who set the committee rules, is not affiliated with RSU 21 and is being paid for his time.

The Educational Collaboration Ad Hoc Committee was formed during a special school board meeting in late May as the result of a discussion about fostering open dialogue to strengthen community unity.