Public invited to forum on school district plan

AUGUSTA – State Sen. Kevin L. Raye, R-Perry, has scheduled a public forum tonight in East Machias to discuss Gov. John Baldacci’s budget proposal and alternative proposals to consolidate Maine’s 290 school districts into 26 regions.

The forum will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Elm Street School Gymnasium, Route 191, East Machias.

“I’m looking forward to hearing in person from parents, students, teachers, administrators, local officials and members of the general public on this issue,” Raye said. “Coming on the heels of LD 1 and the EPS school funding formula, the governor’s proposal is generating a lot of concern among my constituents.”

State Rep. Howard McFadden, R-Dennysville, who serves on the Legislature’s Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs, plans to attend Raye’s forum.

Officials of the Maine Municipal Association and the Maine Education Association also will be there to address questions on their plan.

“While much of the attention has been focused on reducing the number of superintendents, the governor’s plan has other significant components including the elimination of local school boards. It’s sweeping restructuring of education would eclipse the passage of the Sinclair Act 50 years ago,” Raye pointed out.

Raye represents Senate District 29, comprised of all of Washington County and portions of eastern Hancock and Penobscot Counties.

Under the governor’s plan, school administration in most of Washington County would be split between two regional centers, governed by boards consisting of nine to 15 members.

For more information about the forum, contact Raye at senatorraye@wwsisp.com or by phone at 287-1505 in Augusta, or at 853-9406 on weekends.