letter to the editor

Thanks for the coverage

Tue, 10/31/2017 - 8:00am

Dear Editor:

Thank you Wiscasset Newspaper for covering the joint presentation we made to the School Board on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 (“Chewonki partnership aids Wiscasset students’ learning,” Oct. 25, 2017). I wanted to make sure to thank my long-time colleague, Ralph Keyes (science teacher at WMHS), who was also a presenter at the meeting. Ralph has put in a lot of collaborative planning hours to develop academic programming that utilizes our strong connection with Chewonki.

The Wiscasset School system is poised in an historical moment to define itself as a small, vibrant, 21st century school system. Local resources such as Chewonki and our historically rich downtown and waterfront provide us with opportunities for unique programs that will enhance the academic experiences of our students.

However, decisions that will shape the future of our district's schools are currently being made from the top down; these decisions neglect to include community input and they lack vision and a strategic plan. I urge the superintendent and the school board to connect with their constituents and work together to develop a vision for the future. I urge community members to show up and voice your ideas. A strong, inclusive public school system is an asset to the entire community.

Mary Ellen Bell

Wiscasset Middle High School