Vassalboro school board elects new chairman

Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

Vassalboro School Board members began their June 21 meeting by electing Jolene Gamage chairman, succeeding Kevin Levasseur, with Jessica Clark vice chairman, and proceeded through routine business.

Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer reported the 2021-22 year ended well, with field trips, a student concert and the annual eighth-grade promotion ceremony. He thanked all the staff, including the new substitute teachers who made in-school classes possible; the parent-teacher association; and everyone else who made a difficult year successful.

Pfeiffer said summer plans include hiring new people to fill staff vacancies and the usual building maintenance, which will feature interior painting. Board members unanimously gave him authority to issue contracts to new personnel from June 22 through Sept. 15.

Speaking for finance director Paula Pooler, Pfeiffer said the Vassalboro school department will end the fiscal year on June 30 with the budget in the black. The exact amount to be carried forward won’t be known until final bills are paid.

Board members approved the proposed 2022-23 school calendar, which has classes beginning Sept. 1. The calendar is on the school’s website, vcsvikings.org.

The website says summer school begins June 27, and from June 27 through Aug. 19 Vassalboro Community School will offer free lunches to residents under 21 years old. Hours are 11 to 11:20 a.m., Monday through Friday, except July 4.

The Vassalboro School Board will not meet in July; the next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16. It will be preceded by a workshop beginning at 5 p.m.