Clark optimistic about consolidation

MSAD #58 — Superintendent Quenten Clark spent a couple of days in Augusta last week testifying before the Education Committee in a public hearing; he also attended a workshop later in the week.

Rep. Thomas Saviello and Jarrod Crockett cosponsored a bill to allow Coplin and Highland plantations to consolidate with MSAD #58. Clark and the two legislators wanted to see if this plan satisfied the re-organizational laws even though the minimum student enrollment would not be achieved.

Clark has said that they’ve run out of options for possible consolidation partners and legislative action is required.

There was also language in the bill to consider having MSAD #58’s central office administrate either its own unorganized territory students, UT students from Franklin County or even the entire state. If the later is considered, it could eliminate up to five positions at the state level where currently the UT is administered.

“There is a general interest in doing something different with the UT,” Clark said. “I am however quite confident that they’ll do something in Highland and Coplin,” he said.

Clark explained that after hearing from several other districts which had similar and not so similar problems, the committee decided to table the bill.

“The committee has decided that they have a whole lot of problems and they’re looking for a single source solution to fix them all,” Clark explained.

Clark said they truly recognize that there are real problems out there and that they need to fix them. “They are looking for a blanket solution to fix them all.”

Lorrie Arruda, Coplin superintendent and Brenda Stevens, Highland’s superintendent also testified at the hearing.

“I feel good about what is happening and really got a sense that they’re listening and not just blowing us off,” Clark said. “The process is actually working for us at this time. They’re really stepping up and taking control of the process.”