Good Morning Portland,

On behalf of the entire school district, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who came out to vote on the budget and school referendum. Both measures passed by overwhelming margins. The budget passed with a vote of 1,862 in favor and 372 opposed, while the school referendum passed with 1,867 in favor and 350 opposed.

We now have a full school year to plan for the school consolidation project. In the short term, the Board of Selectmen will pass the resolutions necessary for us to submit our grant application to the State before the June 30 deadline. The Town will also form a building committee and begin the process of selecting architects, construction managers, and an owner’s project manager.

Next year, no changes will occur to our schools or grade-level configurations. All schools will continue operating as they currently do. Our primary goal during the upcoming school year will be to organize a smooth transition for our faculty, staff, and, most importantly, our students as we prepare for the 2027–2028 school year.

We remain committed to maintaining high-quality teaching and learning in a safe and positive environment for all students while renovations take place at Valley View Elementary School from 2027–2029 and Gildersleeve Elementary School from 2029–2031.

Additional information will be shared as the process moves forward. We are fully committed to maintaining a transparent process that incorporates the voices of community stakeholders throughout each phase of the project.

Thank you again for your ongoing support. Our students are very fortunate to have such a caring and committed community behind them.

Best,

Charles Britton

Superintendent, Portland Public Schools