The MSAD27 Board, at the request of administration, has begun to have discussions about the future of 6th grade programming, and whether or not the best placement for 6th grade is with 7th and 8th grade, just as it was for many years when these grade levels were housed in C-wing at Fort Kent Elementary. The goal is to once again have a true middle school at Valley Rivers Middle School. In doing so, the following advantages have been identified:
- The learning standards are aligned and grouped for 6-8.
- 6th grade is better age-appropriately grouped with 7th and 8th.
- Opportunity to restructure and improve the middle-school concept.
- Ability to experience multiple teachers (switching classes).
- Allow for a more comfortable PreK Expansion pilot with ACAP at FKES.
- Easier access to Sports/Extra-Curricular (Student council, spelling bee…).
- Better opportunities for band growth and expansion.
- Equity in Special Education (balance caseload).
- Equity in Cafeteria (balance workload).
- Balance of student enrollment.
- A student's educational journey in MSAD27 would include 7 years in each building.
As we continue these discussions, your thoughts and opinions are very important to the decision making process. We thank you for the information you can provide.
