Staff Writer
The Caribou School Board recently met at the Caribou Technology Center to discuss current initiatives at the tech center as well as to consider the first reading of two policies.
Ralph Conroy, Caribou Technology Center Director, gave a PowerPoint presentation about the center, with a number of short slide presentations, showing photos of students taking part in the many programs offered. Conroy discussed the recent School Review at the tech center, which is similar to the re-accreditation process, which the Caribou School System recently went through. According to Conroy rather than being observed by a private company tech centers are reviewed by the state. According to Conroy the process went well, although it was a lot of work.
Conroy also discussed plans to get students involved in projects around the school, using their newly acquired skills to build tables for classrooms, and paint classrooms. Conroy felt that these types of projects would not only provide an educational opportunity for students, it would also help to instill a certain amount of pride in their learning environment.
Conroy also discussed projects in the community which students take part in and the importance of focusing on student safety in these projects, as well as the educational benefit of each project.
“Students are also a strong consideration when we take on live work projects. A prime example would be Tom Huston’s program. There are always people who would like a little groundwork done at a reduced rate. So before Tom takes on any of these projects we look at how far it is from the school, how many pieces of equipment will be used on a project, it’s not much good for one student to be operating a loader and the rest of the students to be standing around with their hands in their pockets. We like to see a site where we can use a lot of pieces of equipment. We use the same criteria when we do live work projects in the other programs as well. Is it good for students, or is it just going to give someone a good deal,” said Conroy.
Conroy also noted that the tech center is currently operating at around 50 percent capacity, and he would like to see student numbers rise.
Following Conroy’s presentation the board considered accepting the first readings of a comprehensive management plan and a compulsory attendance policy. The board approved both policies for a second reading, with a slight wording change to the second.
The board also considered the nomination of Tina Duplessie for the position of half time pre-K teacher. The board voted unanimously to approve Duplessie for the position.
