07/26/2026
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Dear Community,
MSAD 60 has officially entered the new school year, and the Board has held its first meeting. It was a loooong night; however, no one fell asleep driving home, and we look forward to meeting again on August 13th. Community members are encouraged to attend.
We began the evening with a presentation from the HS administration, who shared the philosophy behind the HS grading system. While I am not personally enamored of proficiency-based education, it is probably because I don’t have a working knowledge of it. What was most important to me from that presentation was the passion those administrators demonstrated for what they are doing. That kind of passion is what we need in education, and it is that passion and dedication that make our schools work. I say, “Thank you”. The discussion about a 7-point vs. 10-point grading system is expected to be on the agenda for our next meeting.
It's important to remember that Maine's education system is ranked 41st out of 51 in the nation, and MSAD 60 is doing as well as most districts in the state. If MSAD 60=Maine and Maine=41, then MSAD 60=41. We also need to remember that the new Through Year Assessment scores are due soon and are expected to be shared with the Board at our next meeting. It is my most sincere hope, and I truly expect to see gains in both math and reading on this year’s assessment. Gains that should continue in the years to come. If those gains are not as I expect, know that our administration and teachers will review, reflect, and revise their practices to achieve the results we are all seeking.
The Board voted in Peg Wheeler from Berwick as our new chair and Melissa Cyr from Lebanon as our new vice chair. I’m sure Peg and Melissa’s knowledge and dedication to this district will serve the community well.
The State has passed legislation prohibiting our students from using cell phones and other personal devices during school hours. Principal Dufort shared plans to help parents and students understand and adapt to this law, including specific steps and resources available. You can find this information on the live stream early on in the meeting as soon as it is posted—good information to have. And you can expect to hear more as we get closer to the end of August, when schools open.
Ms. Basko raised questions about the efficacy of Mary Hurd Academy, prompting a request that the chair establish a Facilities Committee. This committee will include residents-such as parents, taxpayers, and retirees-from the three communities, along with representatives from administration, teachers, and the Board. This is an opportunity for community members to share concerns, ask questions, and help shape the future of our aging district facilities through active participation.
Michelle Keniston, Knowlton principal, was approved as the NHMS interim principal for the upcoming school year. Ms. Keniston is leaving ELKS well prepared for a new principal to take over, and will bring much experience to NHMS.
I will end this missive with these words: I believe the infusion of parental concerns has brought a new awareness to the Board. It is my sincerest wish that we, all of us, can be better listeners for each other and learn to respond without condemnation or defensiveness. Sometimes we hear the most ignorant remarks from really offensive people; it is best to ignore them. To retaliate in kind does no good. Without an audience, they usually go away. Let’s move on.
BTW: Josh has taken a new position in the wilds of Maine. As a long-time resident of North Berwick, he continues to care about our district: the academic outcomes, the budget, and the behaviors that prevent our teachers from teaching. Unfortunately, he won’t have the time to be as actively involved as he has been. I will miss his experience and support.
Sincerely,
The Committee of Letters
