From the Superintendent
As you likely have heard by now, LD 1234 was passed this spring by the Maine Legislature in an effort to reduce the effects of personal technology devices/cell phones in schools. This law requires that "By August 1, 2026, a school board shall adopt and implement a policy prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices for the duration of the school day, from starting bell to dismissal bell. The policy must restrict student use of cellular telephones and other personal electronic devices with internet or cellular network capabilities."
For the start of the 2026-27 school year, students in PK-12 across the state will not be allowed to use phones or other personal electronic devices at all during the school day, with limited exceptions (as defined by law) "for medical reasons, emergency situations, or specific educational accommodations." The Board's Policy Committee is currently working on a local policy that complies with this law. For students in grades PK-8, a bell-to-bell ban of cell phones has been in place for many years. At GHS, cell phones have been allowed during unstructured times but must be placed in storage pouches during class time.
Due to the timing of the law and the expense, we will be continuing with Bring Your Own Learning Device (BYOLD) at GHS next year, so the policy will exempt personal laptops that are currently used by high school students during school hours. Other details related to the law have yet to be worked out, but will be communicated once the Board adopts a local policy.
Finally, next Monday is Memorial Day. Please join me in acknowledging all of the American soldiers who have given their all, their very lives, for the nation to which we call home. A democracy does not sustain itself in a tenuous world without sacrifice. It is from the blood of patriots that we are free today. There are no words to express the gratitude owed to those who have given their all so that we can enjoy the blessings of freedom. Memorial Day is more than just a holiday; it is a time to remember the ultimate sacrifice given by the very bravest among us.
Regards,
Jeff Porter 
Last week was MIW's 4th annual kindergarten screening 'event' where they get to welcome the newest Rangers, and their families, to campus!
Welcome Class of 2039!
Notices from the Office of the Superintendent
Hard Hat Chats
Episode 3 - Architecture just went live. Check it out: https://youtu.be/036Rncplg_I?
Episode 2 - MIW Addition Update: https://youtu.be/lS7NkhhUo0k?
Episode 1 - Concrete & Earthwork: https://youtu.be/_41-msOU1qA?
Student Spotlight
Leo Senecal, a 9th grader at Greely High school, took the opportunity in his Computer Assisted Design (CAD) course to design and 3D print a tool for a fellow student, Kate, to increase her independence. Kate uses the 3D printed stand to rest utensils and tools in order to participate in activities. Leo's compassion and willingness to help others exemplifies what Greely is all about. He truly has a big heart! 
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MSAD #51 Board of Directors Information
All meetings will take place at 6:00 pm in the Gyger Room at Greely High School. For those of you unfamiliar with that room, the Gyger Room can be accessed from the GHS parking lot (the side without the electronic sign).
May 21 - Regular Meeting
Remember you can watch our meetings on YouTube LIVE (http://bit.ly/msad51livevideo)
Committee meetings this week:
May 19 - Policy
May 19 - Early Childhood Special Education
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Budget Information 2026-27
Detailed budget information can be found on the District's website at: https://www.msad51.org/
Absentee voting is now underway!
Community Partners
Our Community Partners are strong supporters of various areas of the school. Without them, our students would not have many of the wonderful opportunities and experiences that they receive.
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If you would like something included in our weekly newsletter, please send a brief write up with title along with a JPEG or PNG image of your flyer (if applicable) to Melissa Porter for approval. The deadline each week is Wednesday. Any requests received after Wednesday will be reviewed for possible submission in the following week's newsletter. All approved submissions will be posted on the district's website.
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