BREWER – The school committee approved a 3.5 percent pay raise for support staff Monday, and heard that a first-grade teacher was awarded a $2,000 science award.

Laurie Richards, who has taught first-graders in Brewer for 17 years, was issued a $2,000 check to be used for the school by National Semiconductor Science in Action for her “Living in Lifecycles” program.

“I raise Atlantic salmon in my classroom … and some of the money was used to buy an underwater camera,” she said Tuesday. “And I bought an incubator to hatch eggs.”

She also purchased a see-through garden setup so students can view seeds growing, along with books, stamps, puzzles and magnifying glasses.

“It’s all things to do with life cycles,” the teacher said.

Part of the award included a $1,000 personal bonus check. “I just got it yesterday,” she said. “It’s still in the envelope.”

Six years ago Richards was awarded a $30,000 award for her work with computers, with $20,000 going to the School Department for technology.

“I try to make it fun” for students, she said.

During the meeting, the school board also:

. Held a moment of silence to honor Sgt. Nicholas Robertson, who died in Germany last week after being wounded on a combat mission in Afghanistan. He graduated from Brewer High School in 1998.

. Amended the teachers contract to add a second teacher workshop at the end of the school year.

. Set the final day of school as Monday, June 23.

. Revised or updated policies regarding weapons, violence and school safety, and compulsory attendance for those who live in foster care, homeless shelters or other nontraditional settings. Copies of the updated rules are available at the superintendent’s office at Capri Street School.

. Scheduled a budget workshop for 7 p.m. Monday, April 14, in the student services conference room at Brewer High School.

nricker@bangordailynews.net

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