HAMPDEN – Last spring, SAD 22 was named one of a few high-performing school systems in the state, Superintendent Rick Lyons recalled Wednesday during his annual district status report.

The district was cited by David Silvernail, director of the Center for Educational Policy, Applied Research and Evaluation at the University of Southern Maine because although per pupil expenditures here are about the state average, students outperform others on the Maine Educational Assessment and have higher graduation and post-secondary attendance rates, among other things.

SAD 22 consists of Hampden, Winterport and Newburgh.

After reminding the board of directors about that highlight and others from last year, Lyons gave some heartening news about the current academic year.

The number of students in the district totals 2,295, up 1.5 percent over last year, he said. Kindergarten enrollment rose by 26, and high school enrollment by 47.

“We’re one of the few school systems to show an increase in student enrollment,” Lyons said.

The superintendent also mentioned in his district status report that:

. Proposals to align social studies and the health-physical education curriculum with Maine’s Learning Results were developed. They currently are undergoing finishing touches and are due to be approved this fall.

. Soda was removed from vending machines as part of the comprehensive school health plan.

. All-day kindergarten programs were started.

. A technology integration coordinator was hired using federal funds.

. A total of 112 advanced placement tests were administered, up from 107 in 2002 and 98 the year before. Also, 66 percent of students who took the AP exam scored a 3 or higher out of a possible 5.

. A program was begun in the elementary schools to enrich school climate and teach children responsible and ethical behavior.

. A successful mentoring program for new teachers was conducted and partially supported by state grants.