Dear Editor:

I write in hopes of addressing any confusion and concern in regard to our Boothbay/Boothbay Harbor School's Technology Department.

We all agree that technology and internet connectivity is critical to schools these days and it certainly became of extra importance during the pandemic. At the recent B/BH School Committee meeting March 8, the Committee requested and heard reporting on the technology concerns. We learned of the challenges faced and how these issues have been addressed. Plans have been made for continued improvement in the system. Our teachers and our students need and deserve nothing less.

At the previous, February Board meeting, I was sorry to learn of the resignation of a valued member of the staff, who was well regarded as a teacher of both students and staff. We are always sorry to learn of any resignation. While the School Committee does not play a significant role in school personnel issues, as we move forward, technology will continue to be an important focus.

And to clear up any confusion around communication, I copy here a summary recently shared by the Superintendent's office:

“Did you know you can see all of the agendas and meeting minutes for all of our School Board meetings on our AOS98 School's website? Here is the link: https://sites.google.com/aos98 (please copy and paste.) There is also a link on the bottom of every school web page www.aos98schools.org. Just use the link for the school that you are interested in and you can read through the actions of every School Board as well as contact information for all school board members, meeting dates, budget information, School Board policies, audit information and Building Exploratory Committee information, as well. Meeting notices/agendas are sent out via email while also posted on the website. If you would like to be on the email distribution, please let us know at this email: info@aos98schools.org.”

Community communications are welcomed and encouraged by Superintendent Kahler and all local School Boards welcome and appreciate community involvement. Public comments are scheduled at the beginning of our B/BH School Committee meeting’s agenda. Comments can be shared online and/or in-person at the meeting.

Please keep communicating! We will continue to follow this issue and other issues of need within our schools.

Thank you!

Abby Jones

Boothbay/Boothbay Harbor School Committee