The RSU 21 School Board recently announced the formation of the Educational Collaboration Ad Hoc Committee in an effort to improve communication and collaboration in the divided district community.

Last week, the committee held its first meeting at Kennebunk Elementary School. Board Chair Lesley Stoeffler told the Post that the meeting was successful.

“The committee had a productive first meeting,” Stoeffler said.

After listening to concerns brought up by staff members, the committee adjourned the public meeting and held a private staff meeting.

Results of the private staff meeting will be reported at the School Board meeting on Oct. 17.

The committee will have an advisory role in providing insights and suggestions to inform the board’s decision-making process, Stoeffler said. Participation in all meetings will be in-person only, and the meetings will not be recorded as commentary and discussion are considered confidential.

The ad hoc group is made up of representatives from all six district schools and a wide array of professions within the district, including teachers, education technicians, transportation, central office staff, and School Board members.

“The work of this committee is crucial for fostering a positive and productive educational environment that benefits students, staff and the community at large,” Stoeffler said.

Formation of the committee comes at a tumultuous time in the district. The board has been stuck in teacher contract negotiations since December 2023, and teachers have been working without a contract since August.

Some parents and teachers have been expressing dissatisfaction with the school board, saying teachers do not feel supported by the board.

“Support the teachers who have been working tirelessly without a contract,” resident Kelly Graham Scott said last week.

The board hopes this committee will help to foster positive communication between the School Board and the district.

The committee will meet four times over the school year, and at the conclusion of the meeting schedule, findings will be reported to the board.

The committee will be moderated by Craig Freshley, of Good Group Decisions, a meeting facilitation organization. Freshley is not affiliated with RSU 21.