DEXTER – SAD 46 directors agreed Wednesday to explore the possibility of joining the Piscataquis County Valley Adult Education Cooperative.

The cooperative was formed in 2005 by SAD 4 (Guilford), SAD 41 (Milo) and SAD 68 (Dover-Foxcroft) as a way to regionalize program offerings and reduce costs. The three districts share a full-time director at an estimated salary of $55,000 and pay a cost percentage based on population.

SAD 46 Superintendent Kevin Jordan said that if the directors do vote to join the regional effort, it would not start until the 2007-2008 school year. He said Thursday that more study will be needed before any decision is made.

Directors also agreed at their monthly board meeting to form an ad hoc advisory committee to study the math curriculum at Dexter Regional High School and to offer recommended changes. Jordan said he hoped the committee could report back to the board on suggested changes by April 1. Anyone wishing to participate on the committee should contact Jordan at the central office.

After-school study laboratories for children struggling in mathematics and language arts were approved for elementary children in Dexter, Exeter and Garland schools. Those pupils who participate will be referred by their teachers, Jordan said. Sally Nuite, Kelly Gay, Bryant Farrar and Jennifer Batron will head the laboratories, and each will receive a stipend of $1,121.04.

Alan Smith, Dexter Middle School principal, received an extension to his contract through June 30, 2008, after directors discussed his performance in an executive session. Like all staff not represented by a union, his salary will be addressed during budget deliberations.