MSAD 58 Board of Directors Approves New Leadership Structure for Transportation and Facilities

KINGFIELD—On Thursday, August 15, the MSAD 58 Board of Directors convened at Kingfield Elementary School to discuss significant changes in the district's leadership structure regarding transportation and facilities management.

During the meeting, Mary Lecours from Strong was officially sworn in as a new board director.

The board unanimously approved a proposal to separate the roles of transportation and facilities leadership, which had previously been overseen by a single director, Scott LeHay. Superintendent Laura Columbia advocated for this change, emphasizing that the upcoming facilities assessment necessitates dedicated oversight from a committed individual.

Columbia stated, "These are leadership positions, but they are also hands-on working positions." She highlighted that LeHay is currently managing additional responsibilities, including driving a school bus.

The proposed restructuring is designed to remain within the existing budget, according to Columbia. However, she expressed concerns about the adequacy of custodial staff, indicating that a future assessment might reveal the need for additional positions in the budget.

"This is a risk. I don’t know if this is going to be 100 percent successful. I am more concerned about not doing anything. I feel like this is going to give us a higher amount of potential success," Columbia remarked, reflecting on the potential benefits of the new structure.

In addition to the leadership changes, advisor Jim Danala informed the board about available grant funding from Maine Huts and Trails, which is interested in collaborating with the district. He mentioned that this partnership could provide students with opportunities for cooking, camping, hiking, and canoeing activities.

Danala noted, "It is a great way to get kids interested in the outdoors because it is very much glamping."

Director Sue Pratt raised a question regarding safety measures, specifically about the presence of lifeguards for water activities. Danala assured the board that he would ensure certified lifeguards would be included on the trip roster.

The next meeting of the MSAD 58 Board of Directors is scheduled for Thursday, September 19, at 6:30 p.m. at Day Mountain Regional Middle School in Strong.