We have all recently learned of the abrupt closure of Portland’s Maine Girls’ Academy. Numerous students, parents and alumnae have expressed surprise and dismay over the decision and the loss of the school’s unique educational influence.

But we ought not lose sight of what this closure means to another group: the almost 20 faculty who taught at the school. The totally unexpected announcement of the school’s closing must have caught them totally unprepared. Like teaching faculty everywhere, most were probably in the midst of preparing for the coming fall – course outlines, books, class assignments, class trips – always under the assumption they would resume regular teaching duties in about a month or so, and that, as usual, they would continue to receive their regular salaries and benefits.

But no! All this preparation, anticipation and compensation have suddenly disappeared, and what will they do? Does the school’s closure include anything for faculty support? We don’t know at this point.

Some readers might hope the now-unemployed faculty could apply to nearby high schools for employment, but by midsummer most teaching positions are filled. So again, the initial question remains: Following the abrupt closure of the girls’ school, what will be the fate of the teachers, as well as the staff, and their respective families?

James Leamon

Casco